Northfield Center Township is home to a number of historic landmarks that reflect its rich heritage and early settlement roots. From preserved homes to community monuments, each site tells a piece of the township’s story. Explore the landmarks that have helped shape Northfield’s identity over the past two centuries.
The Palmer House
Tucked along Olde Eight Road in Northfield Center Township, the Palmer House is more than just a historic home—it’s a living reminder of the area’s pioneer past. Built around 1844 by William Palmer, the home stands as one of the few remaining vertical-beam construction houses in Ohio. William’s parents, Hezekiah and Abigail Palmer, were among the earliest settlers of Northfield, arriving in 1832 and building the township’s first home: a simple round log cabin. As the area grew, the log cabin was replaced by this framed structure, which remained in the Palmer family until 1903. The home was later moved from its original site to make way for Northfield Elementary School, and in 1957, it became the headquarters for the Historical Society of Olde Northfield.
Over the years, the Palmer House has served a variety of roles—from staff housing for school personnel to a PTA-sponsored library. Children even helped carry books by hand from the Palmer House to the new Northfield Library when it opened in the 1960s. Today, the home has been preserved as a museum, offering a glimpse into life in the 19th century and the rich history of the Connecticut Western Reserve, to which Northfield owes its roots. Managed by the Historical Society, the Palmer House invites visitors to step back in time and explore the foundations of one of Summit County’s oldest communities.
Town Center Water Pump
Located in the heart of Northfield Center Township, the red water pump is a beloved local landmark with deep historical roots. The original pump was installed in the center of the town square in the 1840s, as shown on an 1850s-era map where it appears prominently at the square’s center. For many years, it served as the only source of water for residents and travelers alike.
A photograph from the 1950s captures the original pump and water trough as they once stood. Unfortunately, in the early 1970s, the original structure was destroyed when a truck struck it. In recognition of its historical significance, the township later rebuilt the pump and trough, preserving the memory of this essential piece of Northfield’s early infrastructure. The current red pump is not only a charming feature of the town center—it’s a symbol of the township’s enduring respect for its past.
Joe's Place Sign & Bench
Joe’s Place is a small memorial park located at the corner of Route 82 and Olde Eight Road in Northfield Center Township, Ohio. Named in honor of longtime resident Joe Janacek, the park commemorates his love for gardening and his dedication to the community. Joe and his wife Estelle moved to the area around 1950, and he became a familiar local figure—known for beautifying his yard with flowers and vegetables and working as a nighttime janitor for Nordonia Schools. Today, Joe’s Place features a simple bench, landscaping, and a sign that keeps his quiet legacy alive.
For more information on the history of Northfield Center Township, visit The Historical Society of Old Northfield at http://www.hson.info.