Marion County, Ohio
Bretz Farm
Caledonia Bowstring Bridge
Harding Tomb
Harding, Warren G., House
Hotel Harding
King, George W., Mansion-Etowah
Marion Catholic School
Marion Cemetery Receiving Vault
Marion County Courthouse
Marion County Telephone Company Building
Marion Township Sub-District #8 School
Marion Women's Club Home
Memorial United Methodist Church
Old US Post Office
Palace Theater
Soldiers' and Sailors' Memorial Chapel
Temple and Masonic Block Buildings
Boyhood Home of Warren G. Harding
Caledonia
Camp Marion, World War II Prisoners of War
Claridon Prairie
Cummins Home
Fort Morrow
Green Camp
Greenville Treaty Boundary Line
Harding Memorial
Harrison Military Road
Home of the Oorang Indians
Home of Warren G. Harding
Jacob's Well
LaRue Veterans Memorial
LaRue Veterans Memorial Column
Marion County Courthouse
Marion Mausoleum
Marion Steam Shovel
NASAs Crawler-Transporter Tread Shoe
Norman Mattoon Thomas
Old Marion Cemetery
Owl Creek Trail
Prospect State Route 47 Bridge
Prospect War Memorial
Scioto Ordnance Plant Site
The Marion County Trial of Bill Anderson
The Marion Engineer Depot
The Old Blockhouse Site
The Underground Railroad / The Marion County Trial of Bill Anderson
Waldo Township Veterans Memorial
War Memorials
World War II Displacement
In the early 1800s, Marion County witnessed a rapid influx of pioneers seeking new opportunities. The first permanent European-American settlement, known as "Jacob's Well," was established in 1821 by Eber Baker. The county was officially established in 1824 and named after General Francis Marion, a hero of the American Revolution.
The discovery of rich natural resources, including fertile soil and an abundance of water sources, propelled Marion County's growth. Agriculture became a dominant industry, with crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans playing a vital role in the local economy. The county also became known for its impressive orchards that produced apples, peaches, and cherries.
Marion County experienced significant industrial development in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The discovery of natural gas and oil in the region contributed to the growth of industries such as glass manufacturing, furniture production, and the railroad industry. Notably, the Marion Steam Shovel Company, founded in 1884, became a global leader in manufacturing steam shovels and played a crucial role in constructing the Panama Canal.
Over time, Marion County has embraced its history while adapting to modern challenges. Today, it is a vibrant community with a diverse economy, encompassing sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail. The county's historical landmarks, including the Harding Home and the Wyandot Popcorn Museum, draw tourists and locals alike, showcasing the area's rich heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Marion County, Ohio:
- 1820: Marion County is founded and established as a county in the state of Ohio.
- 1821: The village of Marion is platted and becomes the county seat.
- 1835: The first newspaper, "The Marion Whig," is established in Marion County.
- 1861-1865: Marion County residents serve in the American Civil War.
- 1875: The first railroad track is laid in Marion County, connecting it to nearby cities.
- 1884: Marion County experiences a significant flood, causing widespread damage.
- 1907: The first electric streetcar line is introduced in Marion County.
- 1924: The Harding Home and Memorial are dedicated in honor of President Warren G. Harding, a native of Marion County.
- 1956: The Marion Power Shovel Company, a leading manufacturer of earthmoving equipment, is founded in Marion County.
- 1972: Marion Technical College is established to provide higher education opportunities for the community.
- 2002: The Marion County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the local history of Marion County.
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Marion County, Ohio.