The History

Nestled along National Road on the outskirts of the charming town of Tipp City lies the home of Elizabeth (Eliza) Wright Van Cleve – Great Aunt to the Wright Brothers – the wife (widow) of William Van Cleve. William and Eliza were well known for being one of the original settlers of Dayton, Ohio and eventually pioneering what we know today as Bethel Township. 

The once 10-acre property was purchased in 1833 for $600. Following William's death Eliza built the two-story brick dwelling for her, her mother and two children. She also saw an opportunity to establish roots along the up and coming National Road allowing for great expansion and monetary gain. The home featured a well, an out building and plenty of fruit trees. Eliza lived in the home until approximately 1850, when she later relocated to Indiana to be closer to family. Upon Eliza’s death in 1851 she was laid to rest at the Bethel Cemetery located just south of Route 40 along State Route 202.