Wesley Saam

Historical marker location:
605 Memorial Pkwy, Fremont, Ohio
( Memorial is on Memorial Parkway south of Arthur Street, in the median.)

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The Ohio State University was established in 1870 and is one of the largest universities in the United States. Its football team, the Ohio State Buckeyes, has won eight national championships.
Sandusky County is located in northern Ohio and has a rich history that stretches back centuries. The area that is now Sandusky County was once home to indigenous tribes, including the Wyandot and Ottawa peoples, who lived off the land along the Sandusky River.

The first European settler in the area was Josiah Hedges, who arrived in 1812 and established a trading post near what is now Fremont. The settlement quickly grew as more pioneers moved in, attracted by the fertile soil and convenient river transportation. In 1820, the county was officially established, named after the nearby Sandusky River.

Sandusky County played an important role in the underground railroad, with several abolitionists helping escaped slaves find freedom in Canada. Fremont served as a major hub for the underground railroad, and prominent anti-slavery advocates such as John C. Fremont and Rutherford B. Hayes called the county home.

The county also has a strong agricultural tradition, with farming being a major industry since its early days. Today, Sandusky County is known for its diverse agriculture, including corn, soybeans, wheat, and livestock. The county is also home to several industrial companies and manufacturing facilities.

Over the years, Sandusky County has seen growth and development, while still preserving its historical heritage. Today, visitors can explore the county's rich history through its museums, historical landmarks, and annual festivals that celebrate its past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sandusky County, Ohio.

  • Prehistoric times: Native American tribes inhabited the area, including the Erie, Wyandot, Ottawa, and Huron peoples.
  • Late 1700s: European-American settlers began moving into the region, establishing small communities.
  • 1820: Sandusky County was officially established by the Ohio General Assembly, named after the Sandusky River.
  • 1834: The county seat was located in Fremont, which became the largest city in the county.
  • 1840s: The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal through the county fueled economic growth and industrial development.
  • 1850s: Sandusky County played a key role in the Underground Railroad, helping escaped slaves find freedom in Canada.
  • 1860s: Sandusky County residents actively participated in the American Civil War, with many soldiers fighting for the Union Army.
  • Late 1800s: Industrialization continued to expand with the rise of the railroad, leading to further economic growth.
  • 20th century: Sandusky County became known for its agricultural production, particularly in dairy farming and crop cultivation.
  • 1950s-1960s: The development of the Ohio Turnpike brought increased highway access, boosting tourism and commercial activity.
  • 1980s-present: Sandusky County has focused on preserving its historical heritage and promoting tourism through various attractions and events.