Otta Litzenberg donated this land to the Hancock Park District in 1985 so its trees could be preserved, reflecting his love of trees and his belief in their value to wildlife, the environment, and the public. In his will, he wanted the woods protected as a renewable resource for park visitors to enjoy. After illness forced him to leave his home, a lumber company wiped out the woods through reckless harvesting that devastated the forest, but nature is now reclaiming the hillsides and high ground with new trees. The Park District uses good stewardship and forest management practices recommended by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, allowing native hardwoods of red oak, white oak, walnut, and hickory to thrive. Litzenberg Memorial Woods, honoring Otta and Ruby Litzenberg, is 227 acres of natural beauty and an educational and inspirational gift.