National Register Listing

Fayette County Courthouse

Main and Columbus Sts., Washington Courthouse, OH
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

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.

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Audiobooks about the history of Ohio.
The Great Serpent Mound, located in Adams County, Ohio, is a prehistoric effigy mound in the shape of a serpent that is more than 1,300 feet long. It is one of the largest effigy mounds in the world and is estimated to have been built by the Adena culture more than 1,000 years ago.
Ohio random facts
Fayette County, Ohio, is located in the southwestern part of the state. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when settlers began to populate the region. The county was officially established on March 1, 1810, named after Marie-Joseph Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, a French general who played a crucial role in the American Revolution. Initially, the county served as a sparsely populated agricultural community.

In the 19th century, Fayette County underwent significant developments. With the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s, the county's economy grew, connecting it to larger markets and bringing increased trade and commerce. The county seat, Washington Court House, became a bustling hub with the railroad's presence, attracting businesses and contributing to the county's prosperity.

During the Civil War, Fayette County played a significant role. Many of its residents joined the Union Army, and the county became a strong supporter of the Union cause. The county's agricultural abundance also played a crucial role in supplying food and provisions to the troops during the war.

In the 20th century, Fayette County experienced more economic diversification. The agriculture industry remained important, but manufacturing and other industries began to emerge. The county also saw advancements in education and healthcare, with the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Today, Fayette County remains a predominantly rural area with a rich history and continues to be a vibrant community.

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

  • 1810: Fayette County is established on March 1, 1810.
  • 1811: The county's first courthouse is built in Washington Court House.
  • 1830: The population of Fayette County reaches around 8,000.
  • 1849: The county's first railroad, the Cincinnati and Xenia Railway, is completed.
  • 1856: Washington College, later renamed Washington University, is founded.
  • 1864: The Civil War impacts Fayette County, with many residents fighting for the Union Army.
  • 1882: The county's first telephone exchange is established in Washington Court House.
  • 1956: Fayette County Airport opens near Washington Court House.
  • 1971: The Fayette County Historical Society is founded.
  • 1994: The Fayette County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.