Cody Higley grew up on Whetstone River Road in eastern Marion County. His grandfather, Robert W. Higley, worked at Marion Power Shovel and nurtured Cody’s love of local history.
“My grandfather was very much into history. He would take me up on his knee and tell stories of his childhood. He grew up in Marion in the 1920s. He had a steel trap for a memory. I always just loved to hear him talk about the old days,” Higley said.
Robert would read to Cody from history books. Other influences included Dr. Arthur R. Ebert, who shared local history with Cody’s class at Waldo Elementary School.
Family Tree Leads to New Passion and New Mentors
At age 12, Higley’s grandfather shared research on the family tree. Cody was hooked.
“That’s what sparked me to go and carry it further. In those days, you had to go a genealogical library and do research. A lot of it would be on microfilm and in books,” Higley recalls. “When I started doing that as a kid, that’s where I met these old-timers who did a lot of groundwork of forming the Historical Society in the 1960s. They were all very nice and helpful.”
Trella Romine, Louie Caskey and Betty Meyers shared research tips and a passion for preserving the past.
“It’s been a lifetime passion. You’re never done doing genealogy. I’ve pretty much spent an entire lifetime continuing it. When you look at local history, it’s about the people. I blend historical research with genealogical research on a local level. I try to incorporate the personal element of history so people can better connect with the past,” Higley said.
Higley Pursues Careers and History
Higley graduated from River Valley in 2003. He studied history at The Ohio State University and earned a law degree from the University of Toledo. Higley pursued a career in finance and moved between Ohio and Michigan, but his passion for history never stopped.
While living in Paw Paw, Michigan, a village of 3,300 people, Higley led the local historical society. Higley’s home was one of the houses featured on a walking tour as it was built by a veteran of the 4th Michigan Cavalry, which helped capture Jefferson Davis at the end of the American Civil War.
Returning to Caledonia
Higley returned to Caledonia in 2019 to be near family. In August, he hosted a historical walking tour of Caledonia. Ninety people learned of Caledonia’s history from its founding in 1834.
“The railroads built Caledonia. People would stop and visit the saloon and cut loose. There was a three-story hotel and many businesses. There was also small jail in the village hall for those who had too much fun,” Higley said.
Devastating Fire of 1883
A fire near the railroad tracks on July 23, 1883 tore through the commercial district.
“All of the buildings downtown except for two had wooden frames. Strong winds spread the embers across the roofs. Caledonia didn’t have the capability to fight a fire of that scale. They used a telegraph to ask the Marion and Galion fire departments for help. They loaded the equipment onto trains to rush there for help,” Higley said.
While the response was too late for downtown Caledonia, they saved the train depot and nearby homes.
While most businesses lacked insurance, the main commercial block was rebuilt in brick in one year.
“If you had a catastrophe at that scale today, how long would it take to rebuild your town? I’m sure it wouldn’t happen within a year,” Higley said.
Tour Reviews
Many attendees gave the tour excellent reviews.
“Very nice event! History, when it comes to life, is fun and interesting. Thanks for sharing the wealth of knowledge you have rattling around upstairs. I could see that I wasn’t the only person enjoying the day and your stories,” said Michael Hardin of Marion.
“It was a fun afternoon, so much to learn about our little hometown. Thanks for all your hard work and research and taking the time to share it with us,” said Susan Dice.
Others agree and look forward to future events.
“Your research and knowledge of our community is phenomenal. I look forward to learning more in the future,” said Justin Niedermier.
Sharing Caledonia History
Higley started a Facebook group called “Caledonia, OH Area History” in June. It already has more than 700 members.
“It’s a way to share local history. Some people had lived here for 30 or 40 years and had never heard these stories. You have this legacy and inheritance that was passed down from generation to generation. It’s up to us to be good stewards of that legacy and preserve it, protect it and expand on it,” Higley said.
Upcoming Events
Cody is planning a historic tour of the New Caledonia Cemetery, as well as a grand opening for the restored Caledonia jailhouse. Check out the Facebook group for more information.
MarionMade! is a program of Marion Technical College.
