D36 Issue No. 38: #QuarryYesMore Bonus Day 9

??The Peninsula Quarry: It's Legacy & (Uncertain) Future

By: James O'Flanagan, MS, FRSA

Author's Note:

Welcome to Day 9 of the #QuarryYesMore series. This final entry wraps up our in-depth look at the legacy, current challenges, and uncertain future of The Peninsula Quarry . It has been an honor to document this community treasure and the efforts surrounding its preservation. As we face the possibility of the property being sold, I want to personally thank all of you who have followed along and supported this initiative. Your voices and memories are what make The Peninsula Quarry such a vital part of our shared history.

#QuarryYesMore Newsletter Series Summary:

• Day 1: Preserving the Legacy of the Peninsula Quarry
• Day 2: Honoring Our Land and Its History
• Day 3: Sustainability in Action
• Day 4: Community and Conservation
• Day 5: Education and Outreach
• Day 6: Hydrology of The Peninsula Quarry
• Day 7: Community Testimonials and Memories
• Day 8: On The Naming: Exploring The Process
• Day 9: The Peninsula Quarry : It's Legacy & (Uncertain) Future

Article Summary:

• Introduction: An introduction to the significance of The Peninsula Quarry, a cherished community landmark, and the focus on its potential sale and legacy.
• USGS Quarterly Review Achievement: A look at the inclusion of The Peninsula Quarry in the USGS quarterly review, marking a step toward preserving its name on federal maps.
• The Peninsula Quarry: A Local Institution: Explores the long-standing presence of The Peninsula Quarry, operated by the Boston Township Community Service League since 1955, and its importance to the community.
• The Legacy Built on Stability: Discusses the quarry’s generational impact, providing a constant for the community while maintaining its operational legacy.
• The Threat of Change: Examines the uncertainty surrounding the quarry’s future due to the potential sale and the implications for its preservation.
• The Broader Impact: Reflects on the personal and community-wide impact of losing The Peninsula Quarry and its significance beyond just being a local landmark.
• What Happens After the Sale?: Poses the critical question of the quarry’s fate post-sale and emphasizes the importance of preserving its legacy for future generations.
• Thought Experiment No. IV: Offers a scenario imagining the potential outcomes of The Peninsula Quarry ’s sale and the broader consequences for the community.
• Community Impact and Personal Connections: Highlights personal stories and memories from community members that showcase the emotional and historical ties to The Peninsula Quarry.
• Conclusion: Reiterates the importance of preserving The Peninsula Quarry ’s legacy in the face of potential changes, emphasizing its value to the community’s history and future.
• Final Thoughts: Wraps up the article by emphasizing the importance of preserving The Peninsula Quarry ’s legacy and offering a call to action for the community to get involved in securing its future.
• Errata: Provides additional interesting facts, historical references, and information related to the quarry’s role in the community.
• Conservation & OAPSIE?Inc. 's USGS Naming Project: Introduces the efforts behind OAPSIE Inc.’s USGS naming project aimed at preserving geographic features like The Peninsula Quarry .
• The Tale of The #QuarryYesMore Tape: Summarizes the nine-part newsletter series, including the word count, research hours, community engagement, and the broader impact of the articles.
• Supporting Articles Recap: A brief summary of each of the nine days’ articles, from the legacy of The Peninsula Quarry to the uncertain future of the site.

Article Playlist:

• Day 1: Faith No More, "Epic." (1989).
• Day 2: The Marshal Tucker Band, "Can't You See." (1973).
• Day 3: Johnny Cash, "Don't Go Near The Water." (1974).
• Day 4: Deep Blue Something, "Breakfast at Tiffany's." (1993).
• Day 5: Aerosmith, "Sweet Emotion." (1975)
• Day 6: Milli Vanilli, "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You." (1989).
• Day 7: ArcAngel Cannata, "Fortune Teller." (2002).
• Day 8: Heavy D, Aaron Hall, & The O'Jay's, "Now That We've Found Love." (1991 & 1973).
• Day 9: R.E.M. – "It's the End of the World as We Know It (And I Feel Fine)" (1987)

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/505583813

Introduction

The Peninsula Quarry is far more than just a swimming hole—it’s a thread that weaves together generations of memories, a fixture of our shared experience. Since 1955, it has quietly stood as a place where families gather, friendships are forged, and moments of peaceful retreat are found in nature. Now, with the property up for sale, the very future of this cherished landmark is hanging in the balance. What’s at stake here isn’t just a plot of land—it’s the preservation of a local institution that has shaped our community’s identity for nearly 70 years.

This isn’t about real estate. It’s about the legacy, the history, and the connections built around this quarry. A sale could erase a piece of our collective heritage, leaving behind an irreplaceable gap where laughter echoed across the water, where nature offered a simple escape, and where community came together. This is a moment of reckoning for the generations that have known this place, and what happens next will define its place—or absence—in the future of our lives.

Link Reference: https://www.clevescene.com/cleveland/8-underrated-swimming-quarries-within-driving-distance-of-cleveland/Slideshow/38342725

USGS Quarterly Review Achievement

Before diving into the challenges ahead, it's important to acknowledge a recent success: The Peninsula Quarry it into the USGS quarterly review. This is a major milestone for the #QuarryYesMore initiative, marking a significant step toward securing permanent recognition for the quarry on federal maps. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.

The inclusion in the USGS review brings hope that regardless of the future sale, The Peninsula Quarry will continue to be acknowledged in some form, even if only as a place on a map. The role of the USGS highlights the importance of governmental organizations in preserving local history and landmarks. Their careful review of naming applications underscores how community legacies are protected through a collaborative effort between local residents, governments, and federal agencies.

Link Reference: USGS Review List 455

Link Reference: https://d9-wret.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/palladium/production/s3fs-public/media/files/Review%20List%20455.pdf

The Peninsula Quarry: A Local Institution

The Peninsula Quarry is more than just land; it’s a vital part of the community, managed by the Boston Township Community Service League, a non-profit that has served Ohio since 1955. When I refer to it as a "local institution," this is what I mean. The quarry isn't just a swimming spot—it’s the heart of a non-profit that has supported the community for nearly seven decades.

For 69 years, The Peninsula Quarry has been essential to the League's mission. Its legacy is deeply tied to this location, and if sold, the organization would lose its foundation.

The question becomes: What happens to the organization if the quarry is sold? This isn’t just about memories; it’s about the future of a non-profit that depends on the quarry to continue its work. The sale could dismantle both a beloved landmark and the organization that relies on it.

Preserving The Peninsula Quarry means protecting the legacy and future of the Boston Township Community Service League. Without it, the non-profit faces a difficult road ahead.

• For a discussion of The Peninsula Quarry on Reddit, Inc. :

Link Reference: https://www.reddit.com/r/Cleveland/comments/9me0ll/does_ne_ohio_have_a_hidden_gem_quary_park_with/?rdt=62739

• My Discussion About The BOSTON TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY SERVICE LEAGUE , August 2024:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/jamesoflanagan_aka-quarrydays-btw-activity-7232686493377384449-N8jr?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_publishing_post_edit%3BMjTYq6v6R8WIOHm%2BwyAWgQ%3D%3D

• BOSTON TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY SERVICE LEAGUE 's Linkedin Page:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/company/boston-township-community-service-league/

• BOSTON TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY SERVICE LEAGUE 's MapQuest Page:

Link Reference: https://www.mapquest.com/us/ohio/boston-township-community-service-415501043

The Legacy Built on Stability

The Peninsula Quarry has operated continuously since 1955, making it more than just a local business—it's a community landmark. For generations, families have gathered here, with grandparents now bringing their grandchildren to enjoy the same experiences. This intergenerational connection gives the quarry its lasting significance.

In a time when many community landmarks are fading, The Peninsula Quarry remains a constant, supporting local tourism and reinforcing a sense of identity for the people who call this area home. Losing it would break a chain of memories and remove a vital asset from the community.

Link Reference: https://www.akronlife.com/topics/peninsula-quarry/

The Threat of Change

The phrase "Our Quarry" speaks to a sense of community ownership, yet with the property up for sale, its future may soon be in the hands of others. For decades, the Peninsula Quarry has been more than just land; it's a business and a local landmark deeply rooted in the community’s history.

This sale raises pressing questions: What happens if new owners repurpose the quarry? Will it remain a place for gathering and memory-making, or could its legacy be erased? As a community, we're left to confront these uncertainties and consider what’s truly at stake.

Link Reference: https://peninsulaquarry.com/

As detailed in a recent LinkedIn post, the potential sale could lead to significant changes:

"Peninsula Quarry has been a cherished community landmark for decades. For many, it's a place of memories, fun, and relaxation. But behind the scenes, it's also a business—a business that has operated continuously since 1955. If this property is sold and the quarry removed, what happens to the business that has depended on this site? It's not just about the loss of a swimming spot; it's about the potential loss of a piece of our community's history and identity."

Please see the full LinkedIn post for more details:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/jamesoflanagan_aka-quarrydays-btw-activity-7232686493377384449-N8jr?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_publishing_post_edit%3BgKAgZHYlRqygH%2BHUENV5nA%3D%3D

The Broader Impact

Losing The Peninsula Quarry or it's #legacy would have a deep personal impact on many in the community (myself and my family included). For decades, it’s been more than just a place to swim—it’s where families have made memories, children learned to appreciate nature, and generations found a quiet retreat. Its absence would leave a void in the lives of those who hold it close, a loss that’s more than physical—it’s emotional and cultural.

Local Jeff Getz donates some cool stuff to The Peninsula Quarry .

Link Reference: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1120100632543661/

On a regional scale, The Peninsula Quarry is a hidden gem for visitors seeking a unique, natural destination. It has drawn attention in travel guides and online communities as a place worth experiencing. Losing this site would remove a key attraction that helps define our area. The broader impact isn’t just about losing a landmark; it’s about the stories, connections, and sense of place tied to it that will be gone forever.

Link Reference: https://www.peninsulahistory.org/home/board/

What Happens After the Sale?

• The critical question is:

What happens to the quarry after the sale?

Nobody really knows.

Will the new owners value its historical and environmental importance, or will they transform it into something entirely different, erasing its identity? This uncertainty hangs over the community, leaving us all to wonder what the future holds for a place that’s been part of our lives for generations.

This is exactly why the push to get The Peninsula Quarry recognized by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) matters so much. By preserving its name, we’re ensuring the quarry’s legacy lives on, even if its physical form might change. As concerned citizens who love clean waterways and cherish our community landmarks, we feel it’s essential to protect this place for future generations. I’d love nothing more than to see my grandchildren swim here, just as so many of us have over the years. It’s about preserving not just the land, but the memories and the history that come with it.

• Property Sale Information:

Link Reference: https://www.loopnet.com/Listing/6050-Riverview-Rd-Peninsula-OH/26582812/

Thought Experiment No. IV

Imagine The Cuyahoga River winding through Cleveland’s industrial flats, past private property and steel mills. It doesn’t lose its name or its place on the map because it passes through land owned by others. The USGS plays a vital role here, maintaining the river's name and presence, ensuring it serves as a constant, shared point of reference for the public good.

Now, apply that to The Peninsula Quarry . The USGS naming application isn't about changing ownership or bypassing private property rights; it’s about securing a piece of community history. By recognizing the quarry’s name on a federal map, we’re preserving its legacy—ensuring that no matter what happens next, this place and its story remain acknowledged and valued for generations to come. The USGS has the authority to make this happen, bridging community heritage with national records, even as times change.

Community Impact, Personal Connections, & Sunshine

While working to engage all parties in preserving The Peninsula Quarry 's legacy, I found it challenging to interpret the Village of Peninsula’s official stance. Official emails contained individual perspectives, creating some uncertainty about the Village's official position. Ultimately, the Village’s administrative assistant clarified that no official stance was being taken, although the blend of personal and formal channels left me a bit unsure about the best path for communication.

Over the summer, friends and family members, including some I hadn’t spoken to a long time, reached out, often assuming I was interested in buying the property myself. These conversations emphasized just how deeply the quarry is woven into the community’s shared experiences and underscored the importance of open communication.

By sharing these exchanges under Ohio’s sunshine laws, the goal is to provide transparency. At its core, the effort to preserve The Peninsula Quarry ’s legacy is about safeguarding a cherished part of our community’s history for future generations.

Conclusion

The Peninsula Quarry is more than land—it’s a symbol of resilience, community, and history. As the possibility of a sale looms, we must recognize the deeper impact on those who cherish it. This isn’t just about preserving a place; it’s about safeguarding memories and a legacy that spans generations.

For those wanting to learn more about the quarry’s significance or the sale’s potential impact, numerous resources, discussions, and property listings are available. Let’s continue to advocate for the preservation of this cherished community treasure.

Final Thoughts

Now, more than ever, the future of The Peninsula Quarry rests in our hands. As community members, conservationists, and concerned citizens, we have the power to make a difference. Share your memories of the quarry. Talk to your neighbors about what this place means to you. Reach out to local leaders, advocating for its protection. And if you can, get involved in efforts to secure its future, whether through volunteer work, donations, or simply raising awareness.

By coming together, we can ensure that The Peninsula Quarry remains more than a memory—it can continue to be a place of beauty, reflection, and community for future generations. Let’s preserve this legacy, not just for ourselves but for those who will follow.

Errata: Interesting Facts and Tidbits

• Historical Connection to Local Schools: Did you know that both Boston and Woodridge High Schools used to hold football practice near The Peninsula Quarry ? Students would cool off in the quarry after intense two-a-day practices in the 1960s and ‘70s.
• Role in Local Biodiversity: The Peninsula Quarry supports several species of wildlife, including rare amphibians and migratory birds. Its natural spring-fed waters contribute to a thriving micro-ecosystem.
• Pop Culture Moments: The quarry has even been featured in indie films and local music videos, adding to its cultural cachet beyond the realm of recreation and nature.
• Community-Led Events: Quarry Days, a tradition held every summer, brings together hundreds of residents and visitors for swimming competitions, picnics, and live music. These gatherings have reinforced the quarry's place in the community’s heart for decades.
• Potential for Public Ownership?: There has been quiet talk among community members about whether the Village of Peninsula or Summit Metro Parks could purchase the land and maintain the quarry as a public park, ensuring its legacy endures.

Link Reference: https://www.wkyc.com/article/life/guides/summer-guide-5-swimming-holes-near-northeast-ohio/95-1d5d9eaa-fb60-4a34-bdd5-3131a2cb1c5b

• Happy Earth Day from OAPSIE?Inc.

It may be late, but it's never too late for a "Happy Earth Day, everyone!" Especially in an article about conserving the environment!

Link Reference: Happy Earth Day Everyone!

• The rules and guidelines for visiting the quarry can be found in the official document, which serves as a reminder of the site's ongoing role in the community.

Link Reference: https://peninsulaquarry.com/rules.pdf

• The Cuyahoga Valley National Park and The Village of Peninsula Are Struggling To Agree On a Path Forward For The Cuyahoga Valley

Link Reference: https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2021/12/a-blessing-or-a-curse-national-parks-presence-key-to-peninsula-s-identity-but-also-fuels-challenges.html?outputType=amp

• Did you know that the property where the old General Die Casters plant is FOR SALE too?

Link Reference: https://www.loopnet.com/Listing/6212-Akron-Peninsula-Rd-Peninsula-OH/30318323/

• Water Street Bridge Video:

This is another area of the Cuyahoga River where we do our conservation work. (Downtown Kent, OH.)

Link Reference: https://vimeo.com/1005193680

Conservation & OAPSIE?Inc.'s USGS Naming Project

At OAPSIE?Inc. , we believe that conservation is about more than just protecting land—it's about preserving the history, culture, and legacy of the spaces we hold dear. One of our significant efforts is our USGS Naming Project, which aims to officially recognize geographic features and ensure their historical and cultural importance is documented for future generations.

This image reflects our commitment to that mission, blending the natural beauty of landscapes with the modern technology and tools used to safeguard them. Through initiatives like this, OAPSIE?Inc. . strives to foster environmental stewardship and community engagement.

• Visit us at: OAPSIE?Inc. Website:

Link Reference: https://oapsie.com/

• USGS Water Feature Naming Project for The Cuyahoga Valley Watershed

One of our significant initiatives is the USGS naming project, which seeks to officially recognize geographic features to preserve their historical and cultural significance. For more details, please refer to Deck 36, Issue No. 19, where we explain this project in depth.

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-19-conservation-oapsie-inc-files-usgs-bgn-naming-james-o-flanagan-5fw8c/

We published an entire Deck 36 Newsletter article enumerating why Conservation, and in particular, #Conservation in the area I grew up in here in Northeast Ohio, are very important to me, OAPSIE?Inc. and my family. Here's Deck 36 Issue No. 8 where I talk about that commitment:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/deck-36-8-edis-favorite-color-green-james-o-flanagan-ew26c/

The Tale of The #QuarryYesMore Tape

This nine-part newsletter series explored the history, community involvement, and uncertain future of The Peninsula Quarry , a beloved local landmark. Each article examined various aspects of the quarry's legacy, its potential sale, and efforts to preserve its role within the community.

Throughout this series, the response has been overwhelmingly positive, with thousands of readers engaging through reactions, comments, and shares on LinkedIn . These discussions, both in public posts and private conversations, have highlighted the widespread interest in preserving this important site.

Series Stats:

• Total word count: Approximately 17,000 words
• Articles: 9 in total
• First article date: July 25, 2024
• Final article date: October 2024
• Community engagement: Thousands of reactions, comments, and shares on LinkedIn, with several hundred unique commenters discussing the preservation efforts
• Research and writing hours: Approximately 250 person-hours
• Historical references: Cuyahoga River burning incident, Krejci Dump, Richfield Coliseum elephant march, Akron’s Waste Treatment Facility, and more

This intention of this series is to show the importance of preserving community legacies. Through extensive research, interviews with community members, and historical references, we’ve captured not just the story of The Peninsula Quarry but also the broader narrative of conservation, memory, and the shared responsibility of preserving our natural and cultural heritage.

Supporting Articles Recap

• Day 1: Preserving the Legacy of the Peninsula Quarry An introduction to the significance of The Peninsula Quarry and its transformation from industrial site to community treasure.
• Day 2: Honoring Our Land and Its History A deep dive into the land’s Indigenous history and the generations of families who have worked to preserve it.
• Day 3: Sustainability in Action An exploration of environmental sustainability efforts that help maintain the quarry’s natural beauty and resources.
• Day 4: Community and Conservation A celebration of the community’s role in keeping the quarry alive through volunteer work and local conservation efforts.
• Day 5: Education and Outreach A look at the educational opportunities available at The Peninsula Quarry, from ecology workshops to community-led conservation projects.
• Day 6: Hydrology of The Peninsula Quarry A scientific examination of the quarry’s water system, including its connections to local streams like Slipper Run and Mill Run.
• Day 7: Community Testimonials and Memories Personal stories from residents who have spent their lives enjoying and preserving The Peninsula Quarry.
• Day 8: On The Naming: Exploring The Process An overview of the USGS naming process and why securing The Peninsula Quarry’s name is critical for its long-term preservation.
• Day 9: The Peninsula Quarry : Its Legacy and Uncertain Future A reflection on the uncertain future of The Peninsula Quarry, the potential impacts of its sale, and what can be done to preserve its legacy.

A local resident donates a yard cart to help out The Peninsula Quarry effort:

Link Reference: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1120100632543661/

This article is part of our #QuarryYesMore series, where we talk about preserving the legacy of The Peninsula Quarry . Stay tuned for more insights and stories that highlight the importance of this cherished community resource.

#USGS-BGN #NamingApplications #QuarryYesMore #PeninsulaQuarry #EnvironmentalEducation #CommunityEngagement #Sustainability #Conservation #EnvironmentalStewardship #OutdoorLearning #VolunteerPrograms #EnvironmentalOutreach ??

?? The Galaxy of Edi ?? https://oapsie.com | https://eastrimtrail.com | https://stow.mortgage | https://galaxyofedi.com | https://adelldurbin.com | https://www.youtube.com/@galaxyofedi1979

??