History of Ashland County, Ohio

Ashland County, located in north-central Ohio, has a deep and rich history rooted in agriculture, industry, and pioneering spirit. Established in 1846, it is named after the estate of Henry Clay, a prominent Kentucky statesman. The county played a significant role in the development of the region, transitioning from a frontier settlement in the early 1800s to a thriving agricultural and industrial community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. With its mix of small-town charm, rural landscapes, and a growing suburban population, Ashland County reflects the broader historical trajectory of Ohio’s rural communities.

Origins and Early History

Before European settlers arrived in what is now Ashland County, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wyandot and Delaware nations. These tribes lived along the rich, fertile lands near the Black River, which runs through the county, hunting, fishing, and farming. European exploration and settlement in Ohio began in the late 1700s, and the area that would become Ashland County was part of the vast western lands ceded to the United States after the American Revolution.

The first permanent European settlers in the area arrived in the early 1800s, lured by the fertile soil and opportunities for farming. The land was dense with forests, and settlers cleared the land for farming, focusing on crops such as wheat, corn, and later, dairy farming. The county’s location along the Black River made it an ideal setting for settlers seeking access to water for both transportation and irrigation.

The land that would eventually become Ashland County was originally part of Richland and Medina Counties. As settlement increased in the 1830s, there were growing demands for the creation of a new county, driven by the need for more localized governance. In 1846, Ashland County was officially established, carved out of land from Richland and Medina Counties. The county was named after “Ashland,” the Kentucky estate of Henry Clay, a prominent politician and advocate for the American System. Clay’s influence in American politics, particularly in advocating for national infrastructure improvements, likely inspired the name, signifying hope for the development of the region.

Ashland County’s early economy was rooted in agriculture, with settlers cultivating the land for crops and raising livestock. The fertile soil of the area, coupled with the presence of the Black River for transportation, allowed for the establishment of a prosperous farming community.

Civil War and Post-War Growth

Like many parts of Ohio, Ashland County played an active role in the Civil War. Ohio was a Union state, and many local men enlisted to fight for the Northern cause. Though Ashland County itself did not see large battles or significant military action, its residents contributed to the war effort by supplying troops and resources. Ashland County residents, like many in the North, were deeply divided on issues such as slavery and states’ rights, and local political and social structures were influenced by these debates.

After the war, Ashland County began to see economic growth, especially in the late 19th century. The area’s economy began to diversify from a purely agricultural one into a more industrialized economy, with the development of railroads, factories, and businesses. The construction of the Cleveland, Akron, and Columbus Railroad (later part of the Norfolk Southern Railway) in the mid-1800s spurred this growth by improving transportation routes for goods such as grain, livestock, and timber. The county’s proximity to larger industrial centers like Cleveland and Columbus also helped boost trade and economic development.

The post-Civil War years also saw an influx of new settlers, many of whom were of German, Irish, and other European descent. These new residents contributed to the cultural and social fabric of Ashland County, bringing with them new traditions, languages, and agricultural practices.

Industrialization and the 20th Century

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were transformative periods for Ashland County. Agriculture continued to play a dominant role in the local economy, but industrialization began to take hold. The discovery of coal in nearby regions, particularly in the neighboring counties of Richland and Knox, made Ashland County a key player in Ohio’s growing industrial economy. The production of coal and iron, along with the expansion of factories and the railroad system, allowed Ashland to become a bustling small city by the early 1900s.

The county also became known for its manufacturing sector. Companies began to set up factories for products ranging from farm equipment to textiles. Ashland itself developed a strong industrial base, and its population grew as more workers moved into the area to take advantage of new job opportunities.

By the mid-20th century, Ashland County was also witnessing a shift toward suburbanization and urbanization. Many residents who had worked in the factories or on the farms began seeking opportunities in the cities, while others built new homes on the outskirts of the growing city of Ashland. The post-World War II period saw the development of infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and roads, which allowed the county to integrate into the broader regional economy.

During this period, Ashland County also developed a strong educational system, with Ashland University, founded in 1878, emerging as an important institution for higher education. The university helped to shape the area’s culture and economy, attracting students and faculty from around the country and providing opportunities for local residents.

Late 20th Century and Modern Times

In the late 20th century, Ashland County, like many rural parts of Ohio, faced the challenges of economic restructuring. The decline of manufacturing, especially after the 1970s, affected the county’s industrial base, and many factories closed or moved to other regions. This, however, allowed Ashland to refocus on its agricultural roots, particularly in the areas of dairy farming, livestock, and crop production.

At the same time, Ashland County continued to experience suburban growth as people sought to live outside the urban centers of Cleveland and Columbus, while still being close enough for work and recreation. The influx of new residents helped to sustain local businesses, and Ashland County became known for its rural charm, good schools, and safe communities.

In recent decades, Ashland County has embraced a more diversified economy, with sectors like healthcare, retail, and professional services becoming key contributors. Today, Ashland County is home to a mix of rural farmland, suburban developments, and small industries, making it a key player in Ohio’s agricultural and industrial economy.

Historical Sites in Ashland County

Ashland County’s rich history is reflected in several historical sites that tell the story of its early settlement, industrial development, and cultural evolution. Here are a few notable historical sites to explore:

1. Ashland County Historical Society Museum

Overview: The Ashland County Historical Society Museum offers an in-depth look at the county’s history, including exhibits on early settlers, the Civil War, industrial development, and local cultural heritage. It also features historical artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the story of the county’s growth.

Location: 110 W. Main Street, Ashland, OH 44805
Ticket Price: $5 for adults, $3 for children
Parking Information: Free street parking and nearby public parking lots.

2. The Campbell House

Overview: The Campbell House, built in 1843, is one of Ashland County’s oldest homes. It provides a glimpse into early 19th-century architecture and the lifestyle of the area’s settlers. The house is furnished with period-appropriate items and serves as an example of early Ohio craftsmanship.

Location: 202 E. Main Street, Ashland, OH 44805
Ticket Price: $5 for adults, $3 for children
Parking Information: Parking available on-site and nearby.

3. The Hanby House

Overview: The Hanby House is significant as the former home of William Hanby, a prominent abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad. The house stands as a monument to Ashland’s role in the abolitionist movement and offers tours highlighting the area’s connections to the fight for freedom.

Location: 1250 Hanby Street, Ashland, OH 44805
Ticket Price: Free
Parking Information: Free parking available on-site.

4. The Ashland University Campus

Overview: Ashland University, founded in 1878, is a cornerstone of education and culture in the region. The campus itself is historic, with several original buildings dating back to the university’s founding. The university also maintains a museum with artifacts from its long history.

Location: 401 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 44805
Ticket Price: Free (for general campus tours)
Parking Information: Free parking available on campus.

County Facts

Geography and Climate

Ashland County is located in north-central Ohio, encompassing approximately 420 square miles. It lies at the junction of the Appalachian Plateau and the Great Lakes Basin, providing a diverse landscape of rolling hills, rivers, and forested areas. The county’s agricultural land is fertile, allowing for the cultivation of crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat. Additionally, the county is home to several small lakes and rivers, making it a great place for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

The climate in Ashland County is humid continental, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Winters are cold and snowy, with average January temperatures around 25°F (-4°C), while summers are warm and humid, with average temperatures in the mid-80s°F (29-31°C). The county receives an average of 35-45 inches of rain annually and experiences occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Key County Facts

• Year Founded: 1846
• County Seat: Ashland
• Population: Approximately 54,000 (as of 2020)
• Population Density: 128 people per square mile
• Largest Cities: Ashland, Loudonville, Polk
• Major Highways: Interstate 71, U.S. Route 42, U.S. Route 250
• Adjacent Counties: Richland County, Wayne County, Holmes County, Knox County, Hocking County