Ashtabula County, Ohio

Located in northeastern Ohio, Ashtabula County has a rich and varied history that dates back to its early settlement in the late 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Erie people, who were later displaced by European colonial powers. In 1797, the Connecticut Land Company purchased the area as part of the Connecticut Western Reserve, leading to the establishment of Ashtabula County in 1808.

During its early years, Ashtabula County experienced rapid growth thanks to its strategic location on Lake Erie. The region became a hub for shipping and trade, with bustling ports in Conneaut and Ashtabula Harbor. The county's agricultural potential also played a significant role in its development, with settlers cultivating crops and establishing farms throughout the area.

In the mid-19th century, Ashtabula County became a center for the iron and coal industries. The discovery of large iron ore deposits, coupled with the availability of coal for fuel, led to the establishment of numerous iron furnaces and steel mills. This led to a period of industrial expansion and economic prosperity, with Ashtabula County known as "the pig iron center of the world."

Unfortunately, this era of prosperity was short-lived, as the decline of the iron and coal industries in the early 20th century led to a period of economic struggle for the county. However, the area eventually rebounded by diversifying its economy and focusing on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

Today, Ashtabula County is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, wineries, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It remains an important agricultural center, producing crops such as grapes, apples, and maple syrup. With a rich history and a vibrant present, Ashtabula County continues to thrive as a unique and charming destination in Ohio.
Brief timeline of the history of Ashtabula County, Ohio:

  • 1800 - Ashtabula County is established on February 10, 1800.
  • 1805 - The town of Jefferson is established and becomes the county seat.
  • 1811 - The first permanent European settlers arrive in Geneva.
  • 1817 - Ashtabula Harbor is incorporated as a village.
  • 1831 - The Ashtabula Train Disaster occurs, one of the deadliest railroad accidents in U.S. history.
  • 1848 - The Ohio and Pennsylvania Railroad reaches Ashtabula County, improving transportation and trade.
  • 1852 - The Village of Ashtabula Harbor is renamed Ashtabula
  • 1861 - The American Civil War begins, and many young men from Ashtabula County serve in the Union Army.
  • 1870 - The first iron ore shipment from the Mesabi Range in Minnesota arrives at Ashtabula Harbor.
  • 1891 - The lift bridge is built over the Ashtabula River, replacing a swing bridge.
  • 1935 - The Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival is established to celebrate the county's historic covered bridges.
  • 1969 - The Ashtabula County Historical Society is founded to preserve the area's history.
  • 1975 - The Smolen-Gulf Bridge, the longest covered bridge in the United States, is built in Ashtabula County.
  • 1993 - The Great Ashtabula Train Disaster Memorial Park is dedicated to honor the victims of the 1876 train disaster.
  • 2018 - Ashtabula County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Ashtabula County, Ohio.