Quail Hollow celebrates 50 years of history

The Quail Hollow Volunteer Association recently released its 2025 Year in Review, highlighting a milestone year that marked the park’s 50th anniversary.

Quail Hollow Park, formerly the home and grounds of the H.B. Stewart family, came under the administration and management of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Recreation on May 15, 1975. The volunteer association, formed in 1982, played a key role in having the property designated a National Historic Site that same year and has remained active in its restoration and maintenance.

The Quail Hollow Volunteer Association, led by President Brad Vincent and Volunteer Coordinator Pam Severa, is a member of the Lake Township Chamber of Commerce and Friends of Stark Parks and operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

In 2025, volunteers contributed 3,655 hours and $5,751 toward restoration projects. Completed work included replacing draperies in the living room and library, restoring balcony bedroom flooring and brass electrical faceplates, and displaying Stewart family serving ware. In honor of the park’s 50th anniversary, Bonnie Stewart Mikkelson located, restored and donated the Art Duo player piano she played while living in the home.

The anniversary year featured a full calendar of community events. Activities included the Spring Appreciation Celebration honoring donors, sponsors and volunteers; Music Nights, a tradition since 1984 featuring folk, bluegrass and Celtic music; and Vintage Teas reflecting Mrs. Stewart’s social gatherings. Country Day celebrated the park’s anniversary with the unveiling of a permanent signboard highlighting the property’s history and the Stewart family. Other events included the annual tent sale, a Friends and Family Fall Fun Day with a Nature for All Trail scavenger hunt, and Christmas in the Hollow.

Stewart Manor House tours also continued throughout the year, guided by knowledgeable docents. The seasonal tours offered visitors insight into the history of the home and the lives of the Stewart family, providing context for the 100-year-old landmark.

Looking ahead, Stark Parks will launch a “One Hundred Years at the Hollow” capital campaign in 2026 to support priorities outlined in the park’s master plan. Planned improvements include preservation of historic facilities, upgrades to public use and educational spaces, accessibility enhancements and improvements to visitor experiences.

“As community stewards of this historic property, a true gem in this community, it is imperative that we work collaboratively to restore and position Quail Hollow Park for the next 100 years as a regional public asset,” Stark Parks Executive Director Dan Moeglin said.

Planned 2026 projects by the volunteer association include replacing second-floor hallway carpeting and adjoining staircases, restoring three wooden staircase surfaces, installing glass shelving and lighting in the railroad display case, expanding Stewart glassware and china displays, adding era-appropriate lighting and iron benches, and restoring the second-floor maid’s housekeeping closet.

Winter events are limited, but an April appreciation celebration honoring donors and volunteers will be open to the public. Music Nights and Manor House tours will resume in May, with additional summer events in development.

More information on membership, volunteering and donations is available through the Quail Hollow Volunteer Association.