Check this out!

    Many gathered in Waterville, Ohio at Memorial park to participate or to observe and give support. The Waterville Historical Society took on the task of organizing this annual Polar Bear Plunge event this year.

The plunge was started in 1929 by well know resident Herb Mericle, who would dunk himself into the icy Maumee River each January 1, to welcome the new year.

Mr. Mericle only missed one time and that was his wedding day. After that he started taking the plunge at 2:30pm to commemorate his nuptials. Each year Mericle's family and friends would gather and participate leading to the size it is today. 

Thank you to this great man who has started a great tradition in our wonderful Waterville Community. To those of you who came out to participate , we say thank you and to all our first -responders who gave of their time to protect and ensure polar bearers were safe, we say thank you very much....

I am so blessed to be a part of such a great community, that is full of tradition, festivities and community support. Enjoy these photos and stay tuned for more future events with Michele Kipplen Photography.