Historical Markers in Morgan County, Ohio
Big Bottom Massacre
Big Muskie
Brick Church and Cemetery
Congressional Medal of Honor Recipients
Deerfield Township
Eagleport
Evelyn True Button House
First McConnelsville Christmas Tree
First Presbyterian Church
Frances Dana Gage / Mount Airy Mansion
General Otho French Strahl, CSA
Goins Field
Howard Chandler Christy
J. Frank Demster Memorial Park
Joseph Bailey / Jeremiah Rusk
Lelia Morris & Trinity Methodist Episcopal Church
Malta & McConnelsville Fire Department 50th Anniversary
Malta Veterans Memorial
Maple Grove Farm
McConnelsville Persian Gulf War Memorial
McConnelsville World War I Memorial
Miner's Memorial Park
Morgan County
Morgan County Dungeon
Morgan Raiders
Morgan's Raid
Muskingum River Navigation System
Otho French Strahl
Purple Heart Memorial
Quaker Meeting House
Rock Hollow School
Rokeby Lock
Ronald V. Crews Memorial Park
Stewart "Stu" Stevens
Stockport
The Carlos M. Riecker Complex
The Stockport Mill
This Boulder
Two River Towns: McConnelsville and Malta
Two Riverboat Pilots
Underground Railroad
Windlass or Crab Winch
About Morgan County
Morgan County Timeline
Morgan County, located in southeastern Ohio, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1817. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware tribes, who lived off the land and relied heavily on the surrounding rivers and forests for food and resources. European settlers began to arrive in the late 1700s, with the establishment of the first permanent settlement in present-day Morgan County around 1800.
In the early 19th century, Morgan County experienced significant growth and development. The area was known for its natural resources and fertile farmland, attracting settlers from across the country. The construction of the Muskingum River and Ohio Canal in the 1830s further stimulated the growth of the county by providing a means of transportation for goods and people. This canal system played a crucial role in the county's economy, allowing farmers and merchants to access new markets and expand their trade.
The mid-19th century brought both prosperity and hardship to Morgan County. The discovery of coal and oil in the region led to a boom in mining and drilling activities, bringing wealth and employment opportunities. However, the county also faced challenges during the Civil War, with many residents serving in the Union Army. The war not only disrupted the local economy but also left a lasting impact on the community.
In the 20th century, Morgan County continued to evolve, adapting to changes in technology and industry. The decline of coal mining and agricultural changes influenced the local economy, leading to a diversification of industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare. Today, Morgan County remains a rural and scenic area, known for its natural beauty and friendly communities.
In the early 19th century, Morgan County experienced significant growth and development. The area was known for its natural resources and fertile farmland, attracting settlers from across the country. The construction of the Muskingum River and Ohio Canal in the 1830s further stimulated the growth of the county by providing a means of transportation for goods and people. This canal system played a crucial role in the county's economy, allowing farmers and merchants to access new markets and expand their trade.
The mid-19th century brought both prosperity and hardship to Morgan County. The discovery of coal and oil in the region led to a boom in mining and drilling activities, bringing wealth and employment opportunities. However, the county also faced challenges during the Civil War, with many residents serving in the Union Army. The war not only disrupted the local economy but also left a lasting impact on the community.
In the 20th century, Morgan County continued to evolve, adapting to changes in technology and industry. The decline of coal mining and agricultural changes influenced the local economy, leading to a diversification of industries such as manufacturing, tourism, and healthcare. Today, Morgan County remains a rural and scenic area, known for its natural beauty and friendly communities.
Morgan County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Morgan County, Ohio.
- 1817 - Morgan County is established on December 29.
- 1820 - The county seat is established in McConnelsville.
- 1870 - The Ohio Division of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad opens in McConnelsville.
- 1885 - The village of McConnelsville is incorporated as a city.
- 1940 - Wayne National Forest is dedicated in parts of Morgan County.
- 1977 - The Morgan County Historical Society is established.
- 1990 - A tornado hits McConnelsville, causing significant damage.
- 2018 - The Ohio State Highway Patrol establishes a post in Malta.