Exhibits in Toledo's Attic contain historical (including pictorial) essays by various authors and contributors. Many are ontributions of former UT History Professor Timothy Messer-Kruse who spearheaded the Toledo's Attic project in the 1990s and is featured on many Toledo Stories, which you can watch on WGTE. The thematic arangement of these exhibits represent various areas in Toledo and regional history. Explore each exhibit area and theme below.
Architecture
Exhibits in this theme focus on historic buildings in Toledo and surroundings, including the buildings on the University of Toledo (previous called the Toledo University, City University of Toledo, and Manual training School at different times).
Biography
The biographically focused theme includes essays and galleries related to Toledo leaders such as Richard Gosser, John Gunckel, Josina Lott, Alanson Wood, and many others.
Commercial and Industrial History
Toledo's location was ideal for commercial anf industrial activity. This theme covers some of the notable companies such as Toeldo Scale, Owens-Illinois, Willys-Overland, Gendron Wheel Company, and others.
Cultural History
This theme speaks to the rich ethno-cultural diversity of Toledo and surrounding communities in Northwest Ohio. The exhibits include essays and photos related to the various ethno-racial communities.
Educational Institutions
Toledo was home to Toledo University and many other schools in the area. This theme focuses on those institutions.
Events in Toledo History
As with any town or city, historical events such as the brief conflict with Michigan over state boundary (called the "Toledo War") in 1835-36 have shaped the community, identity, and landscape of the region. This theme focuses on those events affecting Toledo and Northwest Ohio.
Labor History
With commercialization and industrialization of the city and region came the demand for labor and the unions representing the workers. Toledo's labor force was predominantly male, but during the World War II, women also joined the work force, replacing men called up for military duty. This theme focuses on Richard Gosser and wrking women during World War II.
Local Heroes Remembered
Toledo is great for remembering its heroes and noteworthy personalities resting in Woodlawn and other area cemetries. This theme is an homage to the memory of people who shaped Toledo history.
Social Institutions
Toledo's social institutions included the government, social organizations, philanthropic societies such as the Rotary Club of Toledo, the Boys and Girls Club, and others. This theme focuses on their history.
Then and Now: Toledo and Vicinity
This theme focuses on the immense changes in the regions lanscape of historic structures, monuments, and space occuped by the city from past to present. Some exhibits show how these areas looked a century ago and what is in their place now. Google street views included with some of the exhibits allow you to explore asnd experience those spaces virtually in the present while understanding their historical significance.
Toledo Sport History
Sport has been more than just athletics to Toledoans; it was part of Toledo identity and cultural heritage. Baseball, basketball, football, boxing, and auto racing have occupied an important place in Toledo society, and the presence of African-American athletes has added significant diversity, which we must continue to appreciate. This theme memorializes great moments, conflicts, and achievements in Toledo sport history.
Transportation History
Toledo's unique location along the Maumee River, Lake Erie, and at the crossroads of major railway and roadways has given rise to significant multimodal transformation systems. This theme focuses on Toledo's place in maritime trade on the Great Lakes and as a hub for railroad transportation.
Women in Toledo and Northwest Ohio History
As workers, veterans of war, business leaders, and educators, women made significant contributions to Toledo history and society. This theme honors the contributions and roles of women in the city's and region's history.
