The History of Ambler Heights, Bicknell Olmsted Gardens, and Harcourt Manor

This program is presented by the Cleveland Heights Historical Society. Subject experts Korbi Roberts, Bill Hopkins and Angelina Bair will explore the formation of Ambler Heights at the turn of the last century, the development of the Cleveland and Newburgh Railroad and focus on two estates built on the crest of the hill: The Bicknell home at Beacon Hill (now Judson Park) and the Gill home at Harcourt Manor.
This presentation included two guest speakers as well - Douglas M. Bunker, and Anya Rudd, who both have important ties to Ambler Heights. Douglas Bunker shares stories about his grandparents who worked for the Moses Bicknell family. His grandfather, Henry Bunker (1884-1960) worked as the Bicknell family chauffeur from 1909-1947, and his grandmother Mary Anne Bunker (1889-1976), worked as a Bicknell family cook. Anya Rudd, and her husband John, are the current owners of Harcourt Manor. Mrs. Rudd shares some stories about the home and its incredible restoration.