Henry County Veterans Bridge

Historical marker location:
485 N Perry St, Napoleon, Ohio
( Memorial is on South Perry Street (Ohio Route 108) just south of East Front Street, on the right when traveling north.)
Marker installed: 2008

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The Kent State shootings, in which National Guardsmen shot and killed four students during a protest against the Vietnam War at Kent State University in 1970, took place in Ohio. The incident sparked widespread protests and led to the closure of hundreds of universities and colleges across the United States.
Henry County, Ohio has a rich and interesting history that dates back to its establishment in 1820. The area was initially inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Miami and Shawnee tribes, who lived off the land and hunted in the forests and prairies. The county was named in honor of Patrick Henry, a prominent American Revolutionary War figure.

With the arrival of the first European settlers in the early 1800s, Henry County began to develop and grow. The advent of the Miami and Erie Canal in the 1830s brought increased transportation opportunities, leading to more settlers and businesses coming to the area. Agriculture quickly became a central part of the county's economy, with farmers cultivating crops such as wheat, corn, oats, and raising livestock.

The county experienced significant growth and development throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The railroad industry played a pivotal role in the county's expansion, with several rail lines being established and connecting Henry County to other regions. This allowed for the transportation of goods and facilitated trade, contributing to economic prosperity.

Henry County has also been involved in various historical events. During the American Civil War, many residents joined the Union Army to fight for their cause. In the early 20th century, the county experienced rapid industrialization, with the establishment of factories and manufacturing plants. This brought new employment opportunities and attracted more people to the area.

Today, Henry County continues to thrive as a predominantly rural community with a strong agricultural base. Its historical significance, natural beauty, and small-town charm have made it a beloved place for residents and visitors alike.

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

  • 1817 - Henry County was established on April 1, 1817, and was named after Patrick Henry, a patriot of the American Revolution.
  • 1834 - Napoleon, the county seat, was laid out in 1834 and named after Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • 1841 - The first railroad was built in the county in 1841, connecting Henry County to the larger transportation network.
  • 1891 - The Ohio Oil Company discovered oil in Henry County, leading to an oil boom in the area.
  • 1933 - Henry County was heavily affected by the Great Depression, causing economic hardships for its residents.
  • 1950s - Henry County experienced significant industrial growth in the 1950s, attracting new businesses and expanding employment opportunities.
  • 1990s - The county saw a shift towards more diverse industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
  • Present - Henry County continues to be a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and small business development.