History of Athens County, Ohio
Athens County, located in southeastern Ohio, is a region with a rich historical heritage that spans thousands of years. Initially inhabited by Indigenous peoples, the area later became a significant location during the early European settlement and expansion of the United States. Athens County played a vital role in Ohio’s development due to its strategic position along the Hocking River and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains. Established in 1805, Athens County has witnessed the growth of early American industry, education, and culture, most notably through the founding of Ohio University, one of the oldest public universities in the United States.
Origins of Athens County
Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived, Athens County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Adena, Hopewell, and later, the Shawnee. These cultures left a lasting legacy, as seen in numerous burial mounds and earthworks scattered throughout the region. The Adena culture, dating back as early as 1000 BCE, was known for its burial mounds, some of which can still be seen in Athens County today, including the famous Mound Cemetery, which holds the graves of early European settlers, including General Rufus Putnam, a key figure in the founding of the Ohio Company of Associates.
The Hopewell culture, which followed the Adena, was known for its elaborate trade networks and advanced craftsmanship in pottery, jewelry, and tools. The Shawnee tribe was the dominant group in the area when European settlers arrived, and they had a long history of conflict with colonial powers. In the early 19th century, most Native Americans in the region were forcibly removed, following treaties and military action by the U.S. government.
European Settlement and the Establishment of Athens County
The European settlement of Athens County began in earnest following the Revolutionary War. In 1787, the Ohio Territory was established, and settlers from the eastern United States began moving westward. Athens County was formed in 1805, just a few years after Ohio became a state. The county was named after the ancient Greek city of Athens, symbolizing the settlers’ hopes for the area to become a center of education and culture.
The first major settlement in the county was Athens itself, which grew quickly as a result of its strategic location along the Hocking River and its fertile land. The Hocking River facilitated the transportation of goods, including timber, coal, and agricultural products, which made Athens County an important center for early trade and industry. The establishment of Ohio University in 1804 (one year before the county’s formation) further shaped the county’s identity and contributed to its cultural and intellectual development.
The Ohio Company and the Early Settlers
Athens County’s early settlers were primarily from New England, seeking new opportunities in the western frontier. The Ohio Company of Associates, which was formed in 1786, was instrumental in the settlement of the area. Led by General Rufus Putnam and Manasseh Cutler, the company was given a large land grant in the area that would become Athens. Many of these early settlers were well-educated and brought with them the values of education and civic involvement, which were integral to the development of Athens County.
The arrival of Ohio University in 1804, just one year before the official formation of Athens County, played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s character. As one of the oldest public universities in the country, Ohio University became a center for academic and intellectual life, attracting students and faculty from across the country.
Industrial Growth and Development
The 19th century brought industrialization to Athens County, with the development of industries such as coal mining, iron production, and agriculture. The Hocking River provided access to resources, allowing industries to thrive. Coal mining, in particular, became a major industry, with numerous coal mines established throughout the county.
The construction of railroads in the mid-1800s further connected Athens County to the broader industrial economy of the United States. Railroads facilitated the movement of goods, including coal, timber, and agricultural products, to national markets, boosting the county’s economy. The influx of industrial workers and settlers from other parts of the country during this time also contributed to the growth of Athens’ urban areas.
The Civil War and its Aftermath
Athens County played a relatively minor role in the Civil War but was still affected by the conflict. Although Ohio was a Union state, Athens County saw some pro-Southern sentiment, particularly among the Irish immigrant population. During the war, Athens was home to a military training camp and served as a recruiting ground for Union soldiers. The county also housed a hospital for wounded soldiers, which was located at Ohio University.
The post-war period brought challenges, particularly in terms of labor and economic development. Coal mining continued to be a key industry in Athens County, though by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the area began to see a decline in coal production as other industries took precedence. Agriculture, particularly dairy farming and crop production, continued to thrive during this period.
The 20th Century and Economic Diversification
The early 20th century saw Athens County diversify its economy. While coal and agriculture remained important, the county began to see growth in other sectors, including retail, education, and healthcare. Ohio University continued to be a driving force in the region’s development, attracting students, faculty, and staff from around the world.
The Great Depression of the 1930s had a significant impact on the county’s economy, as it did across the United States. Agricultural prices plummeted, and many families in Athens County struggled to make ends meet. However, federal New Deal programs, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA), helped provide employment and infrastructure improvements to the area.
Post-World War II, Athens County continued its trend of economic diversification. The expansion of Ohio University played a significant role in this process, as the university attracted new businesses and industries to the area. The rise of tourism, particularly the development of outdoor recreation areas such as the Hocking Hills State Park, also contributed to Athens County’s economy.
Key Historical Events
The Founding of Ohio University (1804)
Ohio University’s founding predates the establishment of Athens County by one year, but it has been an integral part of the county’s history ever since. The university became the first institution of higher learning in Ohio and played a major role in shaping the region’s intellectual and cultural development. Ohio University continues to be a central part of Athens County’s identity, serving as a major employer, educational hub, and cultural center.
The Establishment of Athens County (1805)
Athens County was officially established in 1805, named after the ancient Greek city to reflect its aspirations for education and intellectual life. The county quickly grew as settlers from New England and the Mid-Atlantic arrived to take advantage of the fertile land and access to transportation routes like the Hocking River. The formation of the county coincided with the growth of Ohio University, which shaped the region’s identity.
The Coal Boom and Industrialization (Mid-19th Century)
The mid-19th century marked a period of industrialization for Athens County, particularly with the growth of coal mining. The Hocking River, which flows through the county, was a critical transportation route for coal, and the discovery of coal deposits in the region led to the rise of mining communities. Athens County became a major supplier of coal to cities across the Midwest, and the local economy flourished during this time.
The Great Depression (1930s)
Like many parts of the United States, Athens County was hard-hit by the Great Depression. Agricultural prices collapsed, and unemployment rates soared. Federal relief programs, such as the CCC and WPA, brought some relief, with workers employed in public works projects and improvements to infrastructure, such as roads and parks.
Post-World War II Growth and Diversification (1940s-1960s)
Following World War II, Athens County saw significant economic diversification. Ohio University’s continued expansion contributed to the growth of retail, education, and healthcare sectors. The county also saw an increase in tourism, especially with the development of the Hocking Hills State Park, which became a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor recreation.
Historical Sites in Athens County
1. Ohio University and College Green
Overview:
Ohio University, founded in 1804, is a key historical site in Athens County. Its College Green is home to several iconic buildings, including the original 1818 building. The university’s history is closely tied to the region’s development, and its campus is a symbol of Athens County’s commitment to education.
Location:
Athens, OH 45701.
Ticket Price:
Free to visit; guided tours available for a fee.
Parking Information:
Parking available in designated lots around the university campus.
2. Athens County Historical Society and Museum
Overview:
This museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of Athens County. Exhibits include artifacts from the Native American cultures, early settler history, coal mining, and the Civil War.
Location:
65 N. Court St., Athens, OH 45701.
Ticket Price:
Adults: $5; Children (under 12): Free.
Parking Information:
Street parking and nearby parking lots available.
3. Mound Cemetery
Overview:
Mound Cemetery is one of the most important archaeological sites in the United States, known for its Adena burial mounds. It is also the final resting place of several prominent early settlers, including General Rufus Putnam.
Location:
Athens, OH 45701.
Ticket Price:
Free.
Parking Information:
Street parking available.