Nestled on the northern hillsides of Newark, Ohio, Brittany Hills is a neighborhood with a story as enduring as its rolling landscapes. While well-tended lawns and peaceful cul-de-sacs mark its present, the roots of this community run deep, intertwining with the broader narrative of Newark itself. For longtime residents and newcomers alike, Brittany Hills is much more than just a spot on a map — it’s a testament to the city’s growth, resilience, and close-knit spirit.
How Brittany Hills Got Its Name
The origins of the Brittany Hills name add a touch of classic charm to the story of this Newark enclave. Developed in the mid-20th century, the neighborhood was part of a broader trend of suburban growth as Newark expanded outward from its historic downtown. Developers in the early 1960s sought a name that would evoke both elegance and tranquility, settling on “Brittany Hills.” The choice was inspired by the picturesque Brittany region in France, known for its gentle hills, stone homes, and deep heritage — qualities the developers hoped to emulate in their new community.
Word quickly spread about the serene atmosphere and the inviting family homes lining Brittany Hills Drive, Lafayette Drive, and surrounding streets. The area soon gained a reputation as a haven for those seeking modern comforts without losing touch with the natural beauty that defines much of Licking County.
Key Historical Milestones
Brittany Hills came to life during Newark’s post-war boom, when an influx of families and professionals spurred a wave of residential development across the city.
- 1960s — Neighborhood Origins: Construction began in earnest, with most homes on Brittany Hills Drive, Brittany Place, Lafayette Drive, and Monticello Drive springing up across gently rolling terrain. Builders capitalized on mid-century modern and ranch-style designs, popular at the time for their open floor plans and emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
- 1970s — A Growing Community Identity: As more families moved in, Brittany Hills saw the formation of its first neighborhood association. Residents organized potlucks, block parties, and even modest “garden contests,” fostering a real sense of community.
- 1990s — Modernization: Many original homes underwent tasteful renovations or expansions, but the area retained its quiet, leafy charm. Nearby roads received improvements, making for smoother commutes while connecting Brittany Hills more closely with the rest of Newark.
- Present Day: Brittany Hills remains a desirable address. Long-established families mix with younger generations drawn to quality schools, proximity to shops, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Notable Landmarks and Institutions
While Brittany Hills itself has always been a primarily residential neighborhood, its sense of place is deeply influenced by several local points of interest, both within and just beyond its boundaries.
- Moundbuilders Country Club: Just a short drive from Brittany Hills, this historic club dates back to the early 20th century, and its golf course offers sweeping views of Newark’s northern hills. The Country Club has long been a gathering spot for social events and celebrations among neighborhood families.
- Evans Park: Adjacent to Brittany Hills, Evans Park is a cherished green space. With its baseball fields, walking trails, and playgrounds, the park is a popular gathering place for sports leagues, summer picnics, and simple sunset strolls.
- Nearby North Fork Licking River: The river’s proximity not only offers scenic vistas but also played a part in shaping settlement patterns in this part of the city.
- Heritage Hall and Local Schools: Just beyond the neighborhood’s boundaries, Heritage Middle School and the adjoining educational campus have served as a hub for local students and families for decades.
The Evolution of Brittany Hills
From its earliest days, Brittany Hills was envisioned as a neighborhood where families could put down roots. Over the decades, it’s lived up to that dreamy ideal while adapting to the changing face of Newark.
- Architecture: Most Brittany Hills homes feature solid brick or classic siding, with many original mid-century touches preserved alongside modern updates. Deep, tree-lined lots, generous driveways, and carefully landscaped yards are hallmarks of the area.
- Community Spirit: Annual yard sales, volunteering at Evans Park, and informal gatherings on Lafayette Drive have helped maintain strong neighborhood ties — the kind where neighbors know each other well and newcomers are warmly welcomed.
- Streets and Green Spaces: The winding streets and cul-de-sacs create a unique sense of privacy and safety. Mature trees (oaks, maples, and old sycamores) now provide shade and a sense of timelessness to once-new lots.
- A Place to Call Home: Brittany Hills has become both a beloved family neighborhood and a refuge for retirees — a place where stories are shared across generations on front porches or at holiday gatherings.
What Makes Brittany Hills Special Today
Ask any longtime Brittany Hills resident, and they’ll tell you: the magic lies in the balance between comfortable modern living and an enduring sense of community.
- A Blend of Peace and Proximity: The neighborhood’s location offers the best of both worlds — quiet, green streets just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Newark’s thriving downtown and its historical sites, like the nearby Newark Earthworks.
- Generational Connections: Many residents are second- or even third-generation Brittany Hills families, and pride in the neighborhood runs deep. Family walks, Halloween parades, and group holiday light displays are annual highlights.
- Nature and Heritage Together: The green slopes that inspired the Brittany Hills name remain, home to songbirds and dotted with flowering dogwoods every spring. Neighbors take pride in their gardens, with many yards featuring roses, hydrangeas, or vegetable patches reminiscent of those first started by the neighborhood founders.
Conclusion: A Living Chapter in Newark’s Story
Brittany Hills isn’t just a group of houses or a collection of streets — it’s a living chapter in Newark’s larger story. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or you’re just driving down Brittany Hills Drive for the first time, the neighborhood’s warmth, beauty, and shimmering sense of togetherness are unmistakable. In many ways, Brittany Hills embodies what’s best about Newark: honoring the past, embracing the present, and always building toward an even brighter future.