Belmont County, Ohio

American Legion Post 168 Veterans Memorial B&O Railroad Tunnel Barnesville Veterans Memorial Barnesville War Memorial Bellaire High School Clock Tower / Central School Clock Tower and Bell Belmont County / Groundbreaking Site of the National Road in Ohio Belmont County Revolutionary War Veterans Belmont County Veterans Memorial Benjamin Lundy Champion of Freedom Blaine Hill "S" Bridge / Blaine Hill Viaduct Captain Thomas Drummond Captina African Methodist Episcopal Cemetery City of Martins Ferry Fountain Civil War Cannon Civil War Memorial Colonel John H. Sullivan Concord Hicksite Friends Meeting House Confederate Cannon and Historic Cemetery Cornelius D. Battelle, Methodist Circuit Rider / The First United Methodist Church, Bellaire Elizabeth Zane Elizabeth "Betty" Zane McLaughlin Clark George Washington Governor Arthur St. Clair 1734-1818 Governor Wilson Shannon 1802-1877 / BarnesvilleÂ’s Shannon Family Harley E. Warrick Historic Bridgeport Home of Benjamin Lundy Imperial Glass In Honor of Sgt. Sylvester Antolak US Army Isaac G. Vickers Josiah Fox Martins Ferry Pioneers Medal of Honor Recipients of Belmont County Mile Marker Mile Marker Milestone Marks where Extension of National Road... Morristown Powhatan Point Roby Cigar Museum Schramm's Corner September 11, 2001 State of Ohio The Coal Industry at Powhatan Point / Powhatan Disaster, 1944 The Dwight D. Eisenhower Highway The Great Stone Viaduct The National Historic Road in Ohio The Veterans Wall The Village Bell Union Square and its Uses / The Question of Ownership Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial VFW Post 2792 Veterans Memorial Walnut Grove Cemetery War Memorial Watt Car and Wheel Company Welcome to the National Road West Washington Street World War II Honor Roll William Dean Howells / James Arlington Wright Willow Grove Mine World War I Memorial World War I Memorial World War II Memorial World War II Memorial
Belmont County, located in eastern Ohio, has a rich history that can be traced back to the Native American tribes that once inhabited the region. Prior to European settlement, the area was home to tribes such as the Mingo, Delaware, and Shawnee. The first European explorers arrived in the late 1700s, with the establishment of Saint Clairsville as the county seat in 1803.

In the early years of settlement, Belmont County played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. It became a gateway to the Ohio River, serving as a vital transportation route. The county was also known for its coal mining industry, which started in the mid-19th century. The discovery of coal led to rapid industrialization and an influx of immigrants seeking work, particularly from European countries.

During the American Civil War, Belmont County was divided, with some residents supporting the Union cause and others sympathizing with the Confederacy. However, the county played a key role in the Union victory as it was the site of the first land battle of the war, the Battle of Philippi. This battle, fought in nearby West Virginia, marked an important turning point and foreshadowed the larger conflicts to come.

In the 20th century, Belmont County continued to thrive as an industrial center, with the growth of industries like steel and glass production. However, economic decline hit the region in the late 20th century, resulting in the closure of many factories and mines. Today, Belmont County is focusing on diversifying its economy by promoting tourism, attracting new businesses, and investing in renewable energy. The county also prides itself on its historical landmarks and cultural heritage, which attract visitors from near and far.
Brief timeline of the history of Belmont County, Ohio:

  • 1801: Belmont County is established.
  • 1803: The first courthouse is built in St. Clairsville.
  • 1812: The War of 1812 begins, and many Belmont County residents serve in the conflict.
  • 1830: The National Road reaches Belmont County, bringing increased trade and travel to the region.
  • 1861: The American Civil War begins, and Belmont County sends many soldiers to fight for the Union.
  • 1867: The Bellaire Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning the Ohio River, is completed.
  • 1871: The first natural gas well in the county is drilled, leading to the development of the local oil and gas industry.
  • 1907: The Ohio Valley Electric Railway begins operation, providing transportation throughout the county.
  • 1908: The Great Flood of 1908 devastates many communities in Belmont County.
  • 1927: The Great Ohio River Flood affects Belmont County, causing widespread damage.
  • 1937: The Ohio Valley Coal Company's mine disaster in Powhatan kills 82 miners.
  • 1974: The Jamboree In The Hills country music festival begins in Belmont County.
  • 1990: Wheeling Downs Racetrack and Gaming Center opens near Wheeling, attracting visitors to the area.
  • 2009: The Shadyside Bridge, a historic suspension bridge, is restored and reopened to the public.

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