News, notices, stories, and happenings from Flatfield, Ohio.
ISSUE 005 · SEPTEMBER 2026
Why are the doors on Candle Avenue so big?
Anyone who has spent time on Candle Avenue has probably noticed something unusual about many of its oldest houses. The front doors are enormous.
Several of the street’s oldest homes still have wide, heavy, four-panel doors built when Candle Avenue was home to workers from the Cleveland and Lake Erie Railroads.
“Some might find it interesting that the street is an acronym, C for Cleveland, and for and, L for Lake and E for Erie,” said John Crow longtime Candle resident and self-proclaimed Flatfield historian.
The houses themselves date back roughly two centuries, when railway workers and their families helped establish the neighborhood.
Why the doors were built quite so large is less certain. Popular explanations include moving equipment, accommodating work crews, and allowing large pieces of furniture into the narrow homes.
When the Gazette asked old John Crow, he said, “I don’t know.”
Whatever the reason, many of the doors remain in use.
Residents considering replacing an original door are encouraged to photograph it first and share the image with the Flatfield Historical Society.
School is in session
The halls of Washington Elementary are full again as Flatfield students officially returned to class this week.
Safety Officer Worbley was back at her usual post, making sure everyone waited for the signal before crossing.
Inside Washington, the halls quickly returned to their familiar mix of backpacks, forgotten homework, squeaking shoes, and students trying to get to class before the first bell. We spoke with Principal Anderson; he asked us to share a note:
Welcome back, young scholars, and parents!
A new school year gives every student a chance to begin again. You do not have to know everything on the first day. You do not have to be the fastest, the smartest, or the most talented person in the room.
You do need to be ready. Be ready to learn, take care of one another, and ask for help when you need it.
Parents, please help us by getting students to school on time, using the designated drop-off areas and making sure everyone gets a good night’s sleep.
We are glad to have you back.
Principal Anderson
With Washington Elementary and Adams Junior High both back in session, residents should expect heavier Packet and foot traffic during school hours each morning and afternoon.
Ohnay plushies coming soon
With Flatfield’s Ohnay pods moving to deeper Lake Erie waters for the season, younger residents are already missing the familiar sightings along the shore.
Flatfield Historical Society Director Denise Ennis says there may be a suitable substitute on the way.
The Historical Society has partnered with Shorewalkers, the Flatfield outdoor and lakefront shop, for a new “pod” of Ohnay plushies expected to arrive later this month. The stuffed Ohnay have become something of a seasonal tradition for local families, particularly once the real animals become harder to spot from shore.
Last year’s supply did not last long.
“We sold out in 10 minutes last year; get there early, we’ll have doughnuts!” said Rick Shore of Shorewalkers.
Ennis said the Historical Society expects another strong turnout and reminded residents that the plush variety has at least one advantage over the real thing: you can take them home.
The new Ohnay will be available at both Shorewalkers and the Flatfield Historical Society gift counter while supplies last.
Green pumpkins point to a good harvest
Pumpkins are still green on the vines, but farmers outside Flatfield say all signs point to a strong harvest this fall.
Local growers report healthy pumpkin, corn and squash crops following a favorable late summer, welcome news as preparations continue for the annual Flatfield Harvest Festival.
Mayor Richard Garner said a good harvest points to a good festival.
“The Harvest Festival has always been about celebrating the people who grow things, make things and keep this community going,” Garner said. “This year, it looks like our farmers are going to give us plenty to celebrate.”
As requested we asked for an update on the new Fireworks vendor and the “surprise” that Mayor Garner promised for every family.
Big Bang Thang will be taking over the pyrotechnics show this year. Flatfielders know their work from downtown Cleveland sports events.
“Our big surprise will require a little patience, Flatfielders will need to enter this year’s festivities through our new state of the art security system. We want the best time for all of our people so that we can remain one town, one shore, one future.”
Mayor Garner is already looking ahead to a great night.
The pumpkins, at least, appear to be cooperating.
Around Flatfield
Lake conditions: Calm
Water temperature: 70°F
Winds: SE 5 mph
Ohnay advisory: LOW
Sunset: 8:05 PM