Native Americans utilized the St. Mary's River, which leads to the Mississippi River system, as a major waterway between Lake Erie and the Gulf of Mexico. The characteristics of the river made it ideal for their flat bottom boats. In later years, all supplies traveling into Ohio were brought in on the St. Mary's River.
The city of St
Native Americans utilized the St. Mary's River, which leads to the Mississippi River system, as a major waterway between Lake Erie and the Gulf of Mexico. The characteristics of the river made it ideal for their flat bottom boats. In later years, all supplies traveling into Ohio were brought in on the St. Mary's River.
The city of St .Mary's was established in 1823. It was originally founded by three settlers who purchased 400 acres of land and and planned a village that consisted of 68 lots. Though the earliest settlers were of Irish and French heritage, the building of the Grand Lake St. Mary's brought an influx of German settlers to the area. In 1988, oil was discovered in St. Mary's and the waterway became crowded with drilling rigs. Today, about 8,332 residents call St. Mary's home. It is located within the county of Auglaize, which sits in the northwestern area of Ohio. According to the town's website, the people of St. Mary's have an "uncompromising work ethic and a strong sense of moral value."
If there's a move in your future, don't hesitate when trying to find an apartment in St. Mary's. Though there is a sizable inventory in and around the city, the process can take a while and shouldn't be underestimated. Your preparation should begin with gathering your financial documents. Be sure to have at least three pay stubs to show the landlord a complete picture of your income. He or she will want to know that you have the resources to afford the rental amount. Rental references are also valuable to securing a rental. Ask your current and past landlords to write letters documenting your payment history and how great a tenant you are. Don't be afraid to toot your own horn. Also be prepared for a security deposit, which is generally equal to one month's rent.
Once you have everything together, its time to find the perfect apartment for rent. If you're flying solo, and you want to save some dollars, consider looking at two bedroom apartments and sharing with a roommate. Since St. Mary's has a lot of waterfront property, also consider rental condos, which may be more abundantly available, and may just offer a better view of the water!
St. Mary's has roughly four neighborhoods to choose from, each having a different feel and advantage. Be sure to scour thoroughly to make sure you pick the best location for you spanking new pad!
Sandy Beach: Community offering private lake access. Many of the large, newly built homes are lakeside and come complete with boat docks. There are still plenty of prime vacant lots just waiting for your dream house.
Southmoor Shores: A waterfront community with lake access. There are a variety of spacious homes, ranging from three to five bedrooms. Many of them have waterfront access.
Rolling Hills: A friendly neighborhood containing one of the city's parks. There are plenty of recreational options with a sand volleyball lot and a playground for the children. The community has a variety of housing styles built in the 1990s.
West Oaks: Growing neighborhood with a mixture of new and established homes. There is a city park within the community offering a playground and two soccer fields. Perfect for outdoor recreation activities for all ages!
Your time in St. Mary's will be filled with numerous recreational opportunities. The city boasts three locations on the National Register of Historic Places. The Fountain Hotel was built in 1889 and provided a night's rest for numerous dignitaries. The Holy Rosary Catholic Church is known for the historical structure of its original building, which was constructed in the 1860s. The Dr. Issac Elmer Williams House and Office are two adjacent buildings within Saint Mary's. Williams worked as a physician in the city for almost 50 years. The buildings are admired for their Queen Anne style of early twentieth century architecture. The Auglaize County Historical Society also provides you with a bit of history through the Mooney museum. The newly remodeled building houses historical artifacts and photographs of the county's history.
Once you've transported yourself back to the present, it's time to get physical! The St. Mary's miniature golf course is an 18-hole golfing adventure that wraps around ponds, waterfalls and bridges. The Family Aquatic Center was reconstructed in 2003 and offers your family hours of water park fun. With several pools and diving boards, its a great opportunity to keep cool on a hot summer day. Varsity Lanes is 16 bowling lanes of pin crashes and friendly competition or if skating is more your cup of tea, try the Woodland Rollerdome and Family Fun Center, open from September through May.
The waterways around St. Mary's are filled with a number of outdoor recreation activities. The State Fish Hatchery raises large mouth bass if you are into catching your own dinner. The Grand Lake at St. Mary's is the place to go for boating and swimming. You can even camp out for the night.
Memorial Park has been dedicated to the veterans of World War I. It sits beside two water canals, so there are beautiful views throughout. You can hop aboard a canal boat or take in the water views from under the covered bridge. The park also hosts the yearly SummerFest Celebration, where you can enjoy good food, music and tons of family fun.
If you have money to spend, St. Mary's offers a variety of stores from which you can choose. The Shoppes at St. Mary's Shopping Center, as well as the St. Mary's Square Shopping Center both house modern department stores, grocers and other specialty stores. However, if you are looking for a unique find, try Uptown's antique and specialty shops. You never know what jewel you might find there.
Once you're done with all of your fun, don't forget to grab a bite! St. Mary's offers all types of dining options, From fast food to family dining, you can get your fill -- or at least your stomach can. There are also some local cuisine specialty restaurants you don't want to miss.
