Yellow Springs, Ohio is located in Greene County north of Xenia and east of Dayton along the Little Miami River. Founded in 1825 by 100 families that were followers of Robert Owen, their plan was to emulate the utopian community of New Harmony, Indiana. The initial plan failed due to internal conflicts and the town did not prosper until the Little Miami Railroad was completed through the town in 1846.
From an early onset, Yellow Springs was a more liberal village, known for its racial tolerance and as one of the final stops in the Underground Railroad. The town is also home to Antioch College, founded in 1852 by the Christian Connection that featured a work and study program for its students. Some of Antioch’s major focuses include environmental stewardship and programs and the arts. In addition, the village holds the distinction of being the smallest municipality to pass an ordnance prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation in 1979.
Today, Yellow Springs still retains its eccentric nature. Boasting a vibrant downtown with over 60 small, family-owned grocery stores, coffee houses, performing art venues, community-owned art galleries, and colorful houses, the small town of under 4,000 attracts tourists to experience one of the best regions of Ohio. Bordering the village to the east is Clifton Gorge, comprised of the Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, John Bryan State Park and Glen Halen, with the Little Miami River snaking through the heart of it. Inside the combined park is post glacial canyons, limestone cliffs, rapids and waterfalls, along with old dams, mill sites and natural springs.
Further Reading
- Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce: Find up-to-date event information, stores and more
- Clifton Gorge at American Byways
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