Government

Clermont County, Ohio, is located in the southwestern part of the state, along the banks of the Ohio River. The history of Clermont County dates back thousands of years to the region's Native American inhabitants. Various tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami, lived in the area before the arrival of European settlers.

In the late 18th century, European settlers began to establish permanent settlements in Clermont County. The area was first surveyed by Ebenezer Zane in 1786, and the first permanent settlement, called Losantiville, was founded in 1788. The name was later changed to Cincinnati, which is now a separate county.

As the population in Cincinnati grew, settlers began moving eastward into Clermont County. By the early 19th century, the county's population expanded, and more towns and villages were established. Batavia, the county seat, was founded in 1814.

Clermont County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to free states or Canada. Many abolitionists in the county provided support and shelter to runaway slaves, helping them on their journey to freedom. The county's proximity to the Ohio River made it an ideal location for escaping slaves crossing into the free state of Ohio.

Overall, Clermont County's history is shaped by its Native American roots, early European settlement, and its involvement in the Underground Railroad. Today, the county continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history and a diverse population.