National Register Listing

Wilson-Lenox House

a.k.a. Marvin Ditmer House

W of Sidney at 9804 Houston Rd., Sidney, OH
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
The Cincinnati Reds, one of Ohio's two Major League Baseball teams (along with the Cleveland Indians), were the first professional baseball team to wear uniforms with numbers on them. They did so in 1911, to help fans identify players more easily.
Ohio random facts
Shelby County is located in the western part of Ohio and has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1819. The county was named after Isaac Shelby, a Revolutionary War hero and the first governor of Kentucky. Prior to its settlement, the land was occupied by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, who were eventually displaced as more settlers arrived.

The first permanent settlement in Shelby County was made by John Hardin in 1817. Other pioneers soon followed, establishing towns and communities throughout the area. The city of Sidney, named after Sir Philip Sidney, was platted as the county seat and became a hub for trade and commerce. The county flourished in the mid-1800s, with the development of industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation.

During the Civil War, Shelby County played a significant role, contributing soldiers to the Union Army and providing support to the war effort. The county's economy continued to grow after the war, with the expansion of the railroad network providing access to new markets and opportunities. Agriculture remained a vital industry in the region, and Shelby County became known for its fertile farmland and productive farms.

In the 20th century, Shelby County continued to evolve and adapt to the changing times. The county experienced both the challenges and progress of industrialization, with the rise and decline of various industries. Today, Shelby County remains a vibrant community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and education. The county's historical landmarks and cultural heritage are preserved and celebrated, reflecting its past while looking towards a bright future.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Shelby County, Ohio.

  • 1819 - Shelby County established by the Ohio legislature
  • 1820 - First settlers arrive in the area
  • 1833 - Sidney chosen as the county seat
  • 1842 - Sidney becomes an incorporated city
  • 1850 - Population reaches over 12,000
  • 1861-1865 - Many residents serve in the American Civil War
  • 1870 - First railway line is established in the county
  • 1880 - County population exceeds 20,000
  • 1896 - First automobile is seen in Shelby County
  • 1920s - Industries such as manufacturing and agriculture thrive
  • 1950s - Significant growth and development in Shelby County
  • 1980s - Economic decline as manufacturing jobs decrease
  • 1990s - Efforts made to revitalize the county's economy
  • 2000s - Continued growth in various sectors including healthcare and education