National Register Listing

Noble County Jail and Sheriff's Office

419 West St., Caldwell, OH
Local significance of the building:
Social History; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

social history architecture jails and prisons
The Ohio River Valley was home to several Native American cultures before European settlement, including the Adena and Hopewell cultures. These cultures left behind many burial mounds and other archaeological sites that are now protected and preserved by the state of Ohio.
Ohio random facts
Noble County, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The county was established in 1851 and named after James Noble, a U.S. Senator from Indiana who played a significant role in the region's development. Prior to its official establishment, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Shawnee.

Settlement in Noble County began in the early 1800s, with the construction of the first log cabins. The discovery of coal and the subsequent boom in mining activities brought rapid growth to the county in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Coal mining became a vital industry for Noble County, attracting numerous immigrants to the area and contributing to its economic prosperity.

The county's history also includes significant transportation developments. The Marietta and Pittsburgh Railroad, completed in 1857, greatly improved accessibility to the region and facilitated the export of coal. Additionally, the construction of the National Road, which crossed through Noble County, further enhanced transportation routes and brought economic opportunities to the local communities.

Throughout its history, Noble County has faced challenges, including economic fluctuations and the decline of coal mining. However, the county has managed to adapt and diversify its economy. Today, Noble County is known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreational activities, and close-knit communities. The county continues to preserve and celebrate its rich history through various heritage sites, museums, and annual events.

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

  • 1789 - Noble County established from portions of Washington, Monroe, and Guernsey counties.
  • 1818 - The first permanent settler, Joseph Noble, arrives in the area.
  • 1820 - Noble County officially organized.
  • 1851 - Oil is discovered in Olive Township, leading to the development of the oil industry in the county.
  • 1885 - The county seat is moved from Sarahsville to Caldwell.
  • 1905 - The Ohio and Little Kanawha Railway begins operation in Noble County.
  • 1937 - A severe flood hits the county, causing significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
  • 1957 - The Noble County Courthouse, built in 1854, is destroyed by fire.
  • 1975 - The Noble Correctional Institution, a state prison, opens in Caldwell.
  • 2003 - The Noble County Historical Society is established.