Welcome to the Moss Ancestral Home, a cherished historical landmark in Mineral Ridge, Ohio. This two-and-a-half-story Pennsylvania Bank-style house, built in the 1830s, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich past and the lives of those who called it home. The house became a part of the National Register of Historic Places, a testament to its historical and architectural significance.
The story of the Moss Ancestral Home begins with the Dunlap family, believed to have constructed the house between 1833 and 1836. The design reflects the architectural traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch, with its distinct bank-style structure built into the hillside. Originally, the house was intended for William Dunlap, but due to his illness, he never lived there. Instead, it was passed down to Samuel and Isabella Burnett, early settlers of Trumbull County. Samuel Burnett played a pivotal role in the community, donating land for a local school that later became part of the area’s identity.
In 1857, the house changed hands and was sold to the Rice, French, Chamberlain and Co., a coal mining enterprise. This transaction marked a significant chapter in Mineral Ridge’s transformation from a sleepy farming community to an industrial hub, with black band iron ore fueling the boom. The house likely served as company headquarters during the construction of the Mineral Ridge Railroad, facilitating the transport of ore to Niles and beyond.
In 1858, Jacob Moss acquired the property, and the Moss family lived there until 1899. Over the years, the house witnessed the evolution of the community, from its industrial peak to its quieter days as an unincorporated area. Mary Lou Godleski, a descendant of the Moss family, spearheaded efforts to restore the house, preserving its legacy for future generations. Her dedication, alongside community volunteers, has transformed the Moss Ancestral Home into a museum showcasing artifacts and stories from Mineral Ridge’s past.
Today, visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms, filled with photographs, memorabilia, and furniture that tell the stories of the families who lived there and the broader history of Mineral Ridge. The home stands not only as a monument to the Moss family’s perseverance but also as a reminder of the area’s pivotal role in the development of the iron industry in the Mahoning Valley. As you walk through the halls, imagine the bustling activity of the past, when the discovery of black band ore changed the course of this small Ohio community.
