Sheffield Lake runs along the Lake Erie shoreline about 20 miles west of Cleveland. While just 2.4 square miles, it boasts five lakefront parks that offer amenitites for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to easy access to the lake to watch stunning sunsets, launch a boat, or enjoy a picnic, the city has completed, and is still creating, miles of nature trails enjoyed by walkers or cyclists. It’s not unusual to see avid birders travel distances during migration season to capture photos of the thousands of birds that take shelter in the trees and woods along the path. Families, school groups and senior citizens can explore the various wildflowers along the paths and stand on the covered bridge.
Affordable housing for first time homeowners, growing families and retirees is a hallmark of this quiet, friendly residential community.
Sheffield Lake was once part of the Northwest Territory, which eventually became the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. Many of the area’s earliest settlers traveled here from Sheffield, Massachusetts.
Historians say settlers heard guns fired from ships in Lake Erie during the War of 1812. Known as the Battle of Lake Erie or the Battle of Put-in-Bay, the American victory proved to be a turning point in that war.
In the early days of the Civil War, hundreds of local men joined the Union Army. They formed the 103rd Regiment of the Ohio Volunteer Infantry and saw action in Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. Some who fought and died are buried in nearby Garfield Cemetery. The 103rd OVI maintains a headquarters and museum in the city.
That proud tradition of military service has continued to the present day. According to the most recent census, 490 veterans live in Sheffield Lake.
The city’s Joyce Hanks Community Center is a hub of activity for classes, organization meetings and special events. Opportunities for lifelong learning abound thanks to The Domonkas Library Branch of the Lorain Public Library System, built through a generous donation by a local couple. The city’s children and teens may attend the Sheffield-Sheffield Lake Public School District or one of several private schools in the area. Lorain County Community College and the University Partnership is a short drive away and offers career training, associate, bachelor and master degree programs.