Pataskala Elementary School
a.k.a. Pataskala High School
396 S. High St., Pataskala, OH Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
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.
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.
During the 19th century, Licking County experienced significant growth and development. The town of Newark, located in the heart of the county, became an important center of trade and industry. It was here that the Ohio and Erie Canal was constructed, connecting the region to the Great Lakes and opening up new opportunities for commerce. The canal brought a surge of economic activity to Licking County and allowed for the transportation of goods like coal, limestone, and agricultural products.
Licking County also played a vital role in Ohio's abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. Many residents were active in assisting runaway slaves as they made their way north to freedom. Prominent abolitionists, such as Thomas Leonard, John Rankin, and the Johnson brothers, used their homes as safe havens and organized networks to aid escaped slaves. Licking County was a stronghold of the anti-slavery movement in the region.
In the 20th century, Licking County continued to evolve and adapt to new economic and social changes. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as the construction of highways and the expansion of railroads, further connected the county to the rest of the state and the nation. Today, Licking County is known for its vibrant communities, historical landmarks, and thriving agricultural industry. It remains an important hub of cultural and economic activity in central Ohio.
Licking County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Licking County, Ohio.
- 1808: Licking County is founded and established by the Ohio General Assembly.
- 1825: The Ohio and Erie Canal opens, connecting Licking County to the Ohio River and stimulating economic growth.
- 1837: The town of Newark is incorporated and becomes the county seat of Licking County.
- 1889: Denison University, a private liberal arts college, is founded in Granville.
- 1909: The Newark Earthworks, a complex of ancient Native American earthworks, is designated a National Historic Landmark.
- 1919: The Longaberger Basket Company is founded in Dresden and becomes a prominent local employer.
- 1939: The Works Progress Administration constructs a dam on the Licking River, creating Buckeye Lake, a popular recreational area.
- 1951: The Central Ohio Technical College is established in Newark.
- 1983: Licking County Symphony Orchestra gives its first performance, enriching the cultural scene in the area.
- 2004: The Licking County Courthouse, built in 1876, undergoes extensive renovation and restoration.