Akron

Akron is a city in northeastern Ohio, United States, and the county seat of Summit County. It is located roughly 40 miles south of Cleveland and is part of the Cleveland-Akron-Canton metropolitan area. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of about 190,000. Akron serves as a regional center for education, healthcare, and industry within Greater Akron.

Historically, Akron grew rapidly in the 19th century after the arrival of the Ohio and Erie Canal, which connected the region to eastern markets and spurred development. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Akron became a global center of the rubber industry, earning the nickname the Rubber Capital of the World. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, founded in Akron in 1898 by Frank Seiberling, became a dominant presence in the city and helped shape its economic identity. The area surrounding Akron is also home to historic estates such as Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the former residence of Seiberling.

Economically, Akron has diversified beyond rubber into polymers, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and services. The University of Akron is a major educational and research institution in the city, known for programs in polymer science, engineering, and business. The city remains a hub for innovation and research, with collaboration between universities, industry, and healthcare providers.

Culturally, Akron maintains a range of museums, theaters, and venues, including the Akron Art Museum and the Akron Symphony Orchestra. The city also features parks, historic districts, and the Canal District, reflecting its industrial heritage and ongoing urban development. Notable people associated with Akron include professional athlete LeBron James and musician Chrissie Hynde, among others who have contributed to its national profile.