The Tri County News

One of the most historic areas in the entire state is the Maumee River valley.

This beautiful stream, in Indian days, was one of the links in a north-south water highway between Lake Erie and the Ohio River.

Fallen Timbers, the battle which ended the Indians' power in Ohio, was fought here in 1794. A monument and park mark the site. Nearby are Fort Meigs and Fort Maumee, and further west is Fort Defiance.

This fortification site is located where the Auglaize and the Maumee rivers meet. It was built by General "Mad" Anthony Wayne.

As he inspected the completed work, he turned to General Scott and said, "I defy the English, Indians, and all devils in hell to take it."

"Then call it Fort Defiance," replied Scott. Defiance has been the name of the city to this day.

But history is not the only attraction along this picturesque river. Its scenery is outstanding. Route 65 follows closely the banks of this historic stream. At intervals are some of the 300 picnic spots which the Ohio Highway Department has built throughout the state.

At the northern end of the valley, where the river widens into Maumee Bay, stands Toledo, one of Ohio's major cities.

There are many things to be seen in Toledo. Noteworthy is the Toledo Art Museum and the Walbridge Park Zoo with its well-equipped amphitheater used for operas and other musical performances.

West of Toledo on Route 20 is Fremont-one of the state's most attractive communities. Here is the Hayes Memorial Museum and Library, dedicated to the memory of one of Ohio's presidents and filled with historic material.

At Fremont, too, is "Old Betsy," the tiny cannon which was instrumental in the defeat of the British and Indians during the War of 1812.