Benedict, Reuben, House

a.k.a. Oliver, William, House

1463 Cty. Rd. 24, Marengo, OH
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

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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The Ohio River Valley was home to several Native American cultures before European settlement, including the Adena and Hopewell cultures. These cultures left behind many burial mounds and other archaeological sites that are now protected and preserved by the state of Ohio.
Morrow County, Ohio, located in the north central part of the state, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Delaware and Wyandot, who lived off the land and utilized the resources of the region. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, establishing the town of Mount Gilead in 1803.

In its early days, Morrow County was primarily an agricultural community, with farmers cultivating the fertile soil for crops and raising livestock. The construction of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought new opportunities for trade and contributed to the county's growth. The establishment of rail lines connected Mount Gilead and surrounding communities, boosting the local economy and encouraging industrial development.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Morrow County experienced a boom in coal mining. The discovery of vast coal reserves led to the opening of numerous mines, attracting workers from across the region. This influx of residents brought increased prosperity and a need for infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals, to support the growing population.

In more recent years, Morrow County has seen a shift in its economic focus. The decline of the coal industry and advancements in agriculture technology have led to a stronger emphasis on farming and agribusiness. The county is now known for its corn, soybean, and wheat production, as well as its dairy farms. Today, Morrow County continues to thrive as a rural community, preserving its historical roots while embracing modern advancements.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Morrow County, Ohio.

  • 1813: Morrow County is established and named after Jeremiah Morrow, the ninth Governor of Ohio.
  • 1814: The first settlers begin to arrive in Morrow County.
  • 1848: The Ohio and Erie Canal is completed, providing a significant transportation route through the county.
  • 1850: The population of Morrow County reaches over 7,000 residents.
  • 1861-1865: Morrow County residents join in the American Civil War and fight for the Union.
  • 1874: The county seat is moved from Mount Gilead to a more central location in the town of Cardington.
  • 1890: The population of Morrow County reaches its peak at over 17,000 residents.
  • 1929-1945: The Great Depression and World War II impact the county, causing economic hardships and military service.
  • 1950s-1960s: Agriculture becomes a prominent industry in Morrow County.
  • 1990s: Industrial and commercial growth accelerates in the county.