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Western Hills :: History

Western Hills is really a combination of neighborhoods: it encompasses the Covedale neighborhood and tends to be thought of as an extension of the Delhi Township, Price Hill, and Westwood communities.

Originally part of the Symmes Purchase, this area remained vast forest lands until the early 1900s, when commerce in Price Hill extended westward along Glenway Avenue. The automobile encouraged many in the post World-War II era to move into the area, which boasts a strong German-Catholic heritage. While it is known for its retention of its charming homes of this early era, it continues to serve as the main retail district for the West Side.

The Western Hills Country Club established its 126-acre home in 1913, at the corner of Cleves-Warsaw Pike and Neeb Road. There was some concern that it was too distant for some members, as the streetcar service did not come out this far, and rough roads were hard on the early automobiles.

Western Hills High School opened in 1928 to serve the community, and is famous for being the alma mater of singer Andy Williams as well as 10 baseball and football players who went on to become pro athletes, including Pete Rose.

Rapid Run Park, with almost 50 acres, was established between 1928 and 1930, and continues to provide area residents with respite from the hustle and bustle of Western Hills' commercial district.

Western Bowl has been an important part of the West Side for decades. Irv Hoinke bought the Western Bowl in 1962 and expanded it to 68 lanes, making it the largest bowling center in the city. His Hoinke Classic tournament attracts 50,000 entrants annually. The business recently changed hands, and community members are hopeful that the neighborhood center will remain active.

More information:

Western Hills Country Club History

More Western Hills Online

Western Hills is more idea than geography. It is built on West Side traditions - long-time residents, community pride and a loyalty to community and neighbors.

Read more @ Cincinnati.com »

It must be planted on fertile ground, because the Western Hills Garden Club continues to grow in an era when other organizations are experiencing decreasing membership numbers.

Read more @ Cincinnati.com »