Founded in 1891, Barberton was the vision of O.C. Barber, local industrialist and noted proponent of applying scientific principles to agriculture. Barber purchased acres of land in New Portage, a village just southeast of Akron. The Diamond Match Company, the flagship of Barber’s empire, provided the new town with its industrial heart, bringing the seemingly overnight growth in population and land improvements that earned Barberton the name "The Magic City."
Today Barberton is home to approximately 27,000 residents who enjoy a community rich in tradition and culture. The Barberton Historical Society works to preserve the history of the community, with an emphasis on restoring and re-purposing the remnants of founder O.C. Barber’s estate, including many of the buildings that once comprised Barber’s famous Anna Dean Farm. During the warmer months the shores of scenic Lake Anna provide a welcoming backdrop to the many festivals for which The Magic City has become famous. From the Cherry Blossom Festival in May to the Mum Festival in September, many weekends are brimming with activity as people gather to enjoy the fun, food, and atmosphere of one of the festivals that have earned Barberton the unofficial title of the “Festival Capital.”
Many business and industries followed Mr. Barber’s lead and established themselves in Barberton. Sun Rubber, Yoder Brothers, Babcock and Wilcox, and PPG are just a few of the companies that helped build Barberton’s industrial base, and in some cases, despite some economic challenges, are still a large part of the Barberton community.
Check out these links for further helpful information.
American Red Cross - Barberton Chapter
Barberton Area Community Ministries – Assists with financial counseling, housing issues, food pantry and other services.