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Draft:Acadia Farms

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Acadia Farms is a historic estate located in Northfield, Ohio, notable as the former residence of industrialist and philanthropist Cyrus Eaton. The property has been associated with significant historical events and notable figures, reflecting its cultural and architectural importance.

History

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Acadia Farms was purchased by Cyrus Eaton in 1912, when he was still in his twenties and working on his first million dollars, according to George E. Condon's book Cleveland: The Best Kept Secret. Eaton, a prominent businessman and advocate for global peace, used the estate as a retreat and venue for intellectual discourse. During his time at the farm, Eaton hosted numerous influential figures, including political leaders, business magnates, and academics, fostering discussions on global affairs and peace initiatives.

The farm played a significant role in Eaton’s organization of the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs, a series of meetings focused on reducing the dangers of armed conflict and promoting global peace. These conferences were later recognized with the 1995 Nobel Peace Prize.

Architecture and Features

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The estate originally spanned 870 acres but was gradually sold off by the Eaton family over time. Today, Acadia Farms occupies 14.93 acres and is located at 9947 Olde 8 Road, Northfield, Ohio 44067. The property is now under new ownership.

The main residence and other buildings on the property are designed in a colonial architectural style. The farm was historically known for its prize-winning Scotch Shorthorn cattle. One notable achievement was "PS Troubadour," a sensational 995-pound Shorthorn calf crowned International Grand Champion Steer at the International Live Stock Exposition in Chicago on November 27, 1956, with winnings totaling $20,397.50. The farm also enrolled 200 Shorthorn cows in Ohio’s Beef Cattle Production Testing Directory.

Notable Events and Visitors

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Acadia Farms was a gathering place for prominent individuals, including U.S. President Harry S. Truman, who visited the estate on multiple occasions."President Truman Visits Acadia Farms". Truman Library. Retrieved 2024-12-11."President Truman Visits Acadia Farms (Image)". Digital Public Library of America. Retrieved 2024-12-11. In 1955, the farm hosted a Soviet agricultural delegation led by Anastas Mikoyan, as well as Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev, reflecting its role in fostering Cold War-era diplomacy."Soviet Trade Minister Visits Acadia". Cleveland.com. 6 January 2019. Retrieved 2024-12-11.George E. Condon. Cleveland: The Best Kept Secret. Pressbooks. Retrieved 2024-12-11.

Cyrus Eaton’s personal connections extended the farm’s reputation as a hub for intellectual and cultural exchange, welcoming leaders and influencers from around the world. Notable events included fox hunting expeditions and equestrian activities, which were hallmarks of the farm’s vibrant social life.

Present Day

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Today, Acadia Farms remains a historic and functional property. While much of the original land has been sold, the remaining 14.93 acres continue to preserve its historical and architectural significance. The property is used as a horse boarding facility and stands as a testament to its rich history in agriculture, diplomacy, and intellectual exchange.

References

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"President Truman Visits Acadia Farms". Truman Library. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "President Truman Visits Acadia Farms (Image)". Digital Public Library of America. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Soviet Trade Minister Visits Acadia". Cleveland.com. 6 January 2019. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Acadia Farms Cattle Achievements" (PDF). Red White and Roan. Retrieved 2024-12-11. George E. Condon. Cleveland: The Best Kept Secret. Pressbooks. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Cyrus Eaton Death Announcement". The New York Times. 11 May 1979. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Soviet Visitors at Acadia Farms". Case Western Reserve University Encyclopedia. 30 July 2019. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Cathy Eaton Blog on Acadia Farms". Thinkers Lodge Histories. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Early Images of Acadia Farms". Hudson Historical Society. Retrieved 2024-12-11. "Summit County Property Auditor". Summit County Property Auditor. Retrieved 2024-12-11.