Tappan Square

Tappan Square is a 13-acre green space in downtown Oberlin with tree-lined paths, a bandstand, and a prominent Memorial Arch at its center. The park is bordered by four main streets that converge at its edges, making it the central focal point of the city.

The space was designed in 1914 by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and John Charles Olmsted, replacing college buildings that previously occupied the location. This transformation created the city's first major public gathering place.

The Memorial Arch honors Oberlin missionaries who perished in the 1899 Boxer Rebellion in China and acknowledges Chinese casualties from the same conflict. This monument reflects how the community values its international ties and commitment to recognizing shared human loss.

Two large rocks positioned in the southern corners serve as public canvases where visitors can add artwork, keeping the space visually dynamic. The square is easily accessible with numerous shaded seating areas beneath trees, making it comfortable for lingering at any time of year.

The repainted rocks in the square change regularly with new artistic expressions, turning the site into an ever-evolving public art project that shifts throughout the seasons. This continuous artistic transformation means each visit reveals different creative visions from the community.

Location: Ohio

Inception: 1885

Architects: Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.

GPS coordinates: 41.29266,-82.21826

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:04