Historical Markers in Geauga County, Ohio
Bainbridge Center Historic District
Bainbridge School
Batavia House
Building History
Burton
Burton Congregational Church
Burton War Memorial
Burton, Ohio-First Permanent Settlement in Geauga County / The Village Green
Carlton & Flora Lowe
Chagrin Falls & Eastern Railway
Chardon Business District
Chardon Business District / Geauga County Courthouse
Charles Martin Hall
Civil War Cannon
Erected to the Memory of the Soldiers of the American Revolution
First Congregational Church of Claridon UCC
Fowlers Mill Historic District / Fowlers Mill
Great Geauga County Fair
In Commemoration of Rev. Joseph Badger
Middlefield
South Newbury Union Chapel
The Burton Village Historic District
The Hickox Brick
The Second High School / The Burton Public Library
This Tablet Marks the Site of Union Chapel
Thompson Ledges / Thompson Ledges Park
Under This Penstock Base
Veterans Memorial
Welton Cemetery
"Old" Chardon Post Office
About Geauga County
Geauga County Timeline
Geauga County, Ohio, was first settled by European-American pioneers in the early 19th century. The county was officially established in 1806 as one of the original counties of the Connecticut Western Reserve. The name "Geauga" is derived from a Native American word meaning "raccoon." The first European settlers faced harsh conditions, including dense forests and swamps, as they began clearing the land for agriculture and establishing small communities.
By the mid-1800s, Geauga County had become known for its agricultural productivity. The fertile soil supported a thriving industry of dairy farming and fruit cultivation. The county's proximity to Lake Erie and the development of railroads also contributed to its economic growth. Several small towns emerged, including Chardon, the county seat, which became a hub for governmental and commercial activities.
During the American Civil War, Geauga County made significant contributions to the Union cause. Many residents served in the Union Army, and the county provided supplies and support for the war effort. In the post-war years, the county experienced further development, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The expansion of industries such as manufacturing, lumbering, and quarrying also contributed to Geauga County's growth and prosperity.
In the 20th century, Geauga County maintained its agricultural heritage while also adapting to changing economic conditions. The county experienced a population boom and suburban development around major cities like Cleveland, leading to a mix of rural and suburban areas. Today, Geauga County continues to be known for its picturesque landscapes, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community. The county's rich history is preserved in its historical sites, museums, and local traditions, reflecting the resilience and growth of the area over the centuries.
By the mid-1800s, Geauga County had become known for its agricultural productivity. The fertile soil supported a thriving industry of dairy farming and fruit cultivation. The county's proximity to Lake Erie and the development of railroads also contributed to its economic growth. Several small towns emerged, including Chardon, the county seat, which became a hub for governmental and commercial activities.
During the American Civil War, Geauga County made significant contributions to the Union cause. Many residents served in the Union Army, and the county provided supplies and support for the war effort. In the post-war years, the county experienced further development, with the establishment of schools, churches, and businesses. The expansion of industries such as manufacturing, lumbering, and quarrying also contributed to Geauga County's growth and prosperity.
In the 20th century, Geauga County maintained its agricultural heritage while also adapting to changing economic conditions. The county experienced a population boom and suburban development around major cities like Cleveland, leading to a mix of rural and suburban areas. Today, Geauga County continues to be known for its picturesque landscapes, recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community. The county's rich history is preserved in its historical sites, museums, and local traditions, reflecting the resilience and growth of the area over the centuries.
Geauga County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Geauga County, Ohio.
- 1796 - Geauga County is established as the first county in the Connecticut Western Reserve.
- 1808 - Geauga County becomes an official county of the state of Ohio.
- 1812 - Geauga County plays a role in the War of 1812 with the establishment of militia units.
- 1842 - The village of Chardon becomes the county seat of Geauga County.
- 1858 - The Geauga County Fair, one of the oldest and largest county fairs in Ohio, is established.
- 1946 - Burton, a village in Geauga County, becomes the center of the nation's largest concentration of maple syrup production.
- 1990 - Geauga County has the highest percentage of Amish residents of any county in Ohio.
- 2010 - The population of Geauga County reaches over 93,000 residents.