Norwood has long used the tagline "Gem of the Highlands."
While the origin of this name is not clear, it is believed to refer to Norwood's beautiful locale among the hills and valleys of southwestern Ohio. Norwood got its start in 1809, when Samuel D. Bowman opened a tavern for travelers at the intersection of present-day Montgomery and Smith Roads. During the early 1900s, industries flocked to the area because of easy access to crisscrossing railways and highways. Increased taxes imposed by the neighboring city of Cincinnati also encouraged businesses to move to Norwood. Norwood was soon dubbed "the city that industry built." More recently, the Rookwood Commons and Pavilion development has helped to revive local businesses. Norwood delves into this unique city's past, uncovering the people, places, and events that have added to its colorful character.