Displaying items by tag: Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
Thousands In Akron To Support Sobriety
10,000 people are in the Akron area today celebrating the struggle to not drink. It's Founder's Day weekend with the programs marking 81 years since Alcoholics Anonymous started in the gate house of Stan Hywet, then the Seiberling mansion and family home, when "Dr. Bob" Smith and Bill Wilson took those first steps.
AA now has over 100 groups worldwide with an estimated 2.1 million members working individually and in support of each other to bring sobriety back into their lives after confronting their personal demons of alcoholism and the destructive behavior that goes with it.
Dr. Smith is buried here in Akron, at Mount Peace Cemetery, and his home on Ardmore Avenue remains a shrine for those seeking strength. Visitors to Akron include those from around the world and in addition to staying with friends, family and hotels the University of Akron also opens access to it's residence halls for hundreds.