Fostering unprecedented economic growth, American industrialists acquired great wealth in the first half of the 20th century. Northwest Ohio benefited from this prosperity as it became a center of transportation and manufacturing growth.
Champion Spark Plug Company founders, brothers Robert A. and Frank.D. Stranahan, became enormously wealthy and used their money to benefit the greater Toledo community in many ways. The Manor House, Robert’s impressive mansion and sprawling estate is a testament to the great business success the brothers enjoyed.
The existence of Wildwood today is the result of a citizens’ campaign and successful ballot initiative in the mid-1970s to preserve the property as a public park. Today, Wildwood Preserve, it is a popular part of the Metropark system.
For the past 30 years, volunteers have decorated the Manor House for the holiday season. Every year the home is beautifully adorned with nostalgic and eclectic decor. This year the home will be open for two weeks. Come enjoy the many festivities from Saturday, December 2 through Sunday, December 17.
