Boyhood Home of Wesley Branch Rickey

Historical marker location:
770 Duck Run-Otway Road, Rushtown, Ohio
( Marker is on Duck Run-Otway Road (County Road 33) 0.1 miles south of Owensville Road (County Road 139), on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1998

Baseball Pioneer, Innovator, Executive

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Ohio was the site of a major oil boom in the late 19th century, with oil wells producing millions of barrels of oil per year. The town of Lima, Ohio, became known as the "little giant of the oil industry" because of the large number of oil companies headquartered there.
Scioto County, Ohio, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was once inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and the Iroquois. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, establishing towns such as Portsmouth and Lucasville.

During the 19th century, Scioto County played a significant role in Ohio's industrial development. The discovery of coal in the region led to the growth of mining operations, attracting workers and entrepreneurs. The completion of the Ohio and Erie Canal in 1832 further stimulated economic growth, as it provided a vital transportation route for goods and people.

In the mid-19th century, Scioto County became an important center for iron production. The establishment of iron furnaces and foundries in Portsmouth fueled the local economy, creating jobs and attracting a diverse workforce. By the late 19th century, the county was home to numerous industries, including steel, brick manufacturing, and glass production.

The 20th century brought both challenges and opportunities to Scioto County. The decline of the coal and steel industries dealt a blow to the local economy, leading to a shift towards a more service-based economy. Today, the county continues to evolve, with a focus on healthcare, education, and tourism as key drivers of economic growth.

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

  • 1803 - Scioto County is officially established as part of the state of Ohio.
  • Late 1700s - The first European settlers arrive in the area, primarily from Kentucky and Virginia.
  • 1814 - Portsmouth, the county seat, is incorporated as a town.
  • 1825 - The Ohio and Erie Canal reaches Portsmouth, bringing economic growth and increased trade to the area.
  • 1863 - During the American Civil War, numerous battles take place in and around Scioto County.
  • Late 1800s - The county's economy booms with the development of coal mining and the expansion of the railroad network.
  • 1913 - The Great Dayton Flood also affects Scioto County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • Mid-1900s - The decline of coal mining and industry leads to economic challenges for Scioto County.
  • 2009 - The Southern Ohio Veterans Memorial Highway, also known as the Portsmouth Bypass, opens, improving transportation in the area.