Defining History
As it continues to change through the years by Brandon J. Wysocki
Failing to be informed and inspired by history is one of the greatest disservices we can do to ourselves. However, just as it's easy for us to take the spectacular crown of our city, Lake Erie, for granted as we get wrapped up in current affairs and the day-to-day activities of life, it may be easier to lose sight of the rich and wonderful history which, in its own way, is just as intrinsic to and interwoven in our identity. History has a unique way of providing perspective, guidance, and drive. It gives us critical insight into how we have come to be where we are and how we might be able to get to where we desire to be.
We should cherish history—not in stubbornly clinging to the past or in any way confining ourselves to it, but in learning from it and using it to grow. In studying our history, you become more aware of some of the impressive heights of the past—along with the missteps —and you become more mindful of our own place and actions in the present. Viewing the present through the lens of it being the history of the future can give us the impetus to be more considerate in what we do, as well as how and why we do it. In my mind, history's most potent potential is to provide the inspiration to do great things and provide the proof that people can do such things here in a city like Lorain, one that is fighting to find a new sustainable identity and prosperous place in an ever-changing world. When we receive news about efforts to bring something new to our community, it's easy to think it won't happen or it can't happen. But when we see 1960s photos of the U.S.S. Cod submarine drydocked in Lorain for repairs or a 1910 photo of several large ships occupying the Black River—or when you learn that nearly half of the 1000-foot freighters on the Great Lakes, including the largest, were built here in Lorain—anything begins to feel much more feasible.
lorainlocal.com | @thelorainlocal
Photo courtesy of Lorain Historical Society
Lorain Local Magazine | page 34
Photo courtesy of Pete Donatucci
