Fabing, Frederick, House
a.k.a. Dr. John Gray Office-Residence
201 S. Park Ave., Fremont, 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 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.
The first European settler in the area was Josiah Hedges, who arrived in 1812 and established a trading post near what is now Fremont. The settlement quickly grew as more pioneers moved in, attracted by the fertile soil and convenient river transportation. In 1820, the county was officially established, named after the nearby Sandusky River.
Sandusky County played an important role in the underground railroad, with several abolitionists helping escaped slaves find freedom in Canada. Fremont served as a major hub for the underground railroad, and prominent anti-slavery advocates such as John C. Fremont and Rutherford B. Hayes called the county home.
The county also has a strong agricultural tradition, with farming being a major industry since its early days. Today, Sandusky County is known for its diverse agriculture, including corn, soybeans, wheat, and livestock. The county is also home to several industrial companies and manufacturing facilities.
Over the years, Sandusky County has seen growth and development, while still preserving its historical heritage. Today, visitors can explore the county's rich history through its museums, historical landmarks, and annual festivals that celebrate its past.
Sandusky County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Sandusky County, Ohio.
- Prehistoric times: Native American tribes inhabited the area, including the Erie, Wyandot, Ottawa, and Huron peoples.
- Late 1700s: European-American settlers began moving into the region, establishing small communities.
- 1820: Sandusky County was officially established by the Ohio General Assembly, named after the Sandusky River.
- 1834: The county seat was located in Fremont, which became the largest city in the county.
- 1840s: The construction of the Miami and Erie Canal through the county fueled economic growth and industrial development.
- 1850s: Sandusky County played a key role in the Underground Railroad, helping escaped slaves find freedom in Canada.
- 1860s: Sandusky County residents actively participated in the American Civil War, with many soldiers fighting for the Union Army.
- Late 1800s: Industrialization continued to expand with the rise of the railroad, leading to further economic growth.
- 20th century: Sandusky County became known for its agricultural production, particularly in dairy farming and crop cultivation.
- 1950s-1960s: The development of the Ohio Turnpike brought increased highway access, boosting tourism and commercial activity.
- 1980s-present: Sandusky County has focused on preserving its historical heritage and promoting tourism through various attractions and events.