Brandywine Falls

See the allure of Brandywine Falls, and learn about its history. - A Not-To-Miss Scenic Adventure!

We found a wonderful site in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It is Brandywine Falls:  8176 Brandywine Rd; Northfield OH 44067   If you have not been there it is just a short, easy drive (about 41 minutes) from Leavittsburg, OH.  We have had a great deal of rain lately so this is a fantastic time to see the falls.

Early settlers were amazed at the falls and appreciated it not only for its beauty, but also as a source of power.  In 1814, George Wallace built a saw mill using the power of the water.  This was followed by mills grinding grain and also a woolen mill.  This became the site of an early village.  Most of this is gone, but George’s son James’s home remains as the Inn at  Brandywine Falls.

It is an easy journey on a boardwalk to view the falls.  We recommend taking the boardwalk down the stairs for a closer majestic view.  We found the stairs, though looking like a lot, to be a comfortable walk down and back. Maybe this is true because of the breathtaking views, as well as, the fact that there are level parts between the sections of stairs.

The name brandywine is most likely from a bet by two men, Jack Nelson and Bob Mollson, who were surveying for the Howe Sound and Northern Railway. The bet was who would first find a way over the falls.  The prize was their choice of a bottle of brandy or wine.

People from all over the world come here to see the falls.  We saw license plates from Nebraska, Michigan, Maryland and more.  Come and see this scenic area – you won’t be disappointed!