The first pioneer arrived in the area in 1820 by means of the Maumee River. He disembarked from his boat into a trackless wilderness south of the river and began clearing the forest for settlement. Others joined him, traveling by river from the East, to seek opportunity in the wilderness. These early settlers worked to build the basics of a new life for their growing community. When crossing the river, they used the site where Native Americans and animals forded the river. The crossing has remained in virtually the same place ever since.
Chapter 1: Maumee River Traverses a Trackless Wilderness
Chapter 2: Early Settlers Arrive to Establish Homesteads
Chapter 3: Maumee River Crossings Keep Pace with Progress
Acknowledgement of notable content sources:
New Haven Area Heritage Association files and book: Images of America NEW HAVEN
Commemorative book: New Haven Area Centennial 1866 – 1966
Research files of Hilda (Schnelker) Snyder, 4th Generation New Haven resident (1920 – 2008)
