Along the scenic Maumee River, Toledo is not just your average Midwestern city; it’s filled of fascinating facts and hidden gems. From its pivotal role in the glass industry to its unexpected ties to the famous Jeep, Toledo offers a plethora of surprises for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re settling into an apartment in Toledo, searching for homes for sale, or want to test your city trivia, this Redfin article will take you through 4 interesting facts about Toledo.

Quick Facts about Toledo

1. Toledo made the Jeep iconic

Toledo played a pivotal role in solidifying the Jeep as an American icon. Although the birthplace of the Jeep was in Butler, Pennsylvania, the city’s Willys-Overland Company manufactured the first Willys MB, a rugged and versatile vehicle crucial to the U.S. army efforts during World War II. Toledo’s craftsmanship and innovation transformed the Jeep into a symbol of durability, and adventure that continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide.

2. Used to be known as “Frogtown”

Toledo earned the nickname “Frogtown” due to the prevalence of frogs in its marshy surroundings known as the Great Black Swamp during its early settlement days. This playful moniker reflects Toledo’s proximity to wetlands and its history as a frontier town.

3. There are haunted places around the city

Toledo’s landscape is imbued with an eerie allure, thanks to its array of haunted locations. Among these, the Collingwood Arts Center stands out, where visitors have reported chilling encounters with ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. Another intriguing site is the historic Oliver House, a grand hotel in the 1800s later converted into a medical center during the Spanish-American War. Today, visitors often witness strange interactions, including sightings of a soldier in full uniform wandering the halls.

4. Toledo is known for its glass

Toledo proudly holds the title of the Glass Capital of the world, a testament to its rich heritage in glass manufacturing. The city’s legacy in the industry dates back to the 19th century, with renowned companies like Libbey Glass and Owens-Illinois calling Toledo home. Today, Toledo continues to innovate in glass production, showcasing its expertise through iconic landmarks like the Glass Pavilion at the Toledo Museum of Art.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.