News
The Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS) offers a rare glimpse into the past with Cleveland Starts Here®, a new Cleveland history exhibit experience and digital portal sponsored by the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle. The exhibit kicked off with an opening ceremony attended by over 700 people on November 28 before making its public debut the following day.
On the occasion of its 150th anniversary, presented by PNC, WRHS is giving the gift of history to the community with Cleveland Starts Here®, an entirely new exhibit experience. It’s the starting point for all audiences, from first-time visitors to life-long residents, to immerse themselves in Cleveland’s stories from the 1790s to today. Using the latest technologies and digital media, rarely seen images, films, art and historical artifacts are now accessible for visitors to experience. From the first Cleveland map and early survey tools, to a lunar descent engine and LeBron James’s championship shoes, Cleveland Starts Here® tells the stories of the triumphs and tragedies that define Cleveland. These stories of innovation, immigration, entrepreneurship, and diversity inspire visitors to create their own chapter in this ever evolving story. Audiences around the world can also access WRHS’s extraordinary collections online via the Cleveland Starts Here® digital portal.
“We are excited to share Cleveland Starts Here® with the world. After three years of development and the incredible support we’ve received from donors and community leaders, we can’t wait for history buffs, sports enthusiasts, parents, grandparents, students, educators and CLE lovers around the world to experience our collective stories. It’s a celebration of the past and the present, and we welcome everyone to come and make connections to their lives,” said Kelly Falcone-Hall, WRHS President & CEO.
“Our Foundation is interested in supporting fine, successful institutions like WRHS and its Cleveland History Center,” said Morton L. Mandel, Chairman and CEO of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation. "Museums like this one preserve stories that shape our culture. The new Cleveland Starts Here® exhibit at the Cleveland History Center should make it possible for generations to pass along the stories and experiences that help connect the past with our world today."
About the Organization
Founded in 1867, the Western Reserve Historical Society is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Northeast Ohio through its collections, exhibitions, educational programs and historic sites. Headquartered at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle and operating six sites across the region, WRHS connects people to the stories, artifacts and archives that shape Cleveland’s past and present. A Smithsonian Affiliate, WRHS collaborates with cultural and educational institutions to bring history to life for diverse audiences.
Learn more at wrhs.org.
