Cuyahoga Falls has Chicago skinned in a dozen ways. So proclaimed an early resident of the city whose premier location on the mighty Cuyahoga River gave the town its name, its livelihood, and its soul. A small town that realized its big potential early on, Cuyahoga Falls became a center of industry and recreation throughout the state of Ohio. Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio explores the town's founding in 1812, its growth into an industrial powerhouse, and its current focus on downtown urban renewal. Within the boundaries of their original two-mile square settlement, the lives of the early citizens of Cuyahoga Falls were inextricably intertwined with the majestic river. They recognized and harnessed its tremendous potential as it tumbled over a series of falls. Local economies flourished as paper, flour, wool, stone, and wood were milled using the immense force of the water, estimated to contain the power of 3,460 horses. Local inhabitants and visitors alike were drawn to nearby Silver Lake to enjoy scenic steamboat cruises, fish the waters, ride the roller coaster, and enjoy the graceful parks that lined its shores.