Defiance - 2003 Community & Resource Guide

Defiance County lies in the historic Maumee River Valley in northwest Ohio. Defiance, the county seat, is at the confluence of the Maumee and Auglaize rivers, where General Anthony Wayne built Fort Defiance in 1794 to protect the area from Indians and the British.

Defiance is a commercial and industrial hub of the six-county area. It is conveniently located within a one-hour drive of Toledo and Fort Wayne. Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit and Chicago are all within an easy drive from Defiance. In fact, the city and county are within 500 miles — or one day’s travel — of nearly half of the North American industrial market bases.

Defiance County has a population of about 39,500, while the population of the City of Defiance is about 17,000. This means the area offers “big-city appeal, and a small-town feel.” The rural setting offers a relaxed lifestyle with a superb quality of life. Abundant community services include excellent healthcare, education, recreational activities and more.

Throughout history Defiance has been a center for trade and culture due to its location along major transportation routes. In 1845, a sophisticated canal system was completed, connecting Defiance with Toledo, Cincinnati and Fort Wayne. Railroads later replaced the canals. The county boasts over 1,000 miles of high-quality paved roadways.

Today, Defiance offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from its large enclosed mall and strip malls to the many quaint family-owned specialty shops. People come from all over the United States and Canada to enjoy the pleasant, rural, rolling farmland setting. From the rivers and waterways to the many church and community festivals, Defiance offers a great family environment for residents and visitors alike.

Come with us as we give you a glimpse of the Defiance area on these pages. Then come take a longer, more satisfying look in person!