The Rookery - Geauga Park District

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The Rookery is a 562-acre tract located in southwest Munson Township. The Chagrin River, the old Interurban Railroad Junction, and one of Geauga County's largest nesting colonies of great blue heron are all special features of this park. It is Geauga Park District's intent to protect this natural area in perpetuity.

From 1899 until 1925, the Cleveland & Eastern Traction Company operated an electric-powered Interurban Railroad that traveled from Cleveland to various points in Geauga County. Located at The Rookery is the "Junction," a wye in the tracks where passengers from the city could either continue northeast to Chardon or wait for a connecting trolley to Burton or Middlefield.

In 1968, Cleveland-based TRW, Inc. bought more than 1,000 acres with the intent to build a 54-hole golf course for its employees. By the late 1980s however, the company's focus had changed and the property was sold.

In April of 1991, Geauga Park District purchased some of the surrounding land and named the property for after the large heron rookery. Trails and facilities were later constructed, and the park opened in October 1997. Additional acres were added in 2003.

www.geaugaparkdistrict.org/parks/rookery.shtml