Van Wert County, Ohio
105 Howitzer Anti-tank Gun
155 Howitzer
1800's Hitching Post
Anthony Wayne's March Across Van Wert County / Venedocia Village
Benches
Caboose
Chestnut Oak
Civil War Soldiers and Sailors Monument
Company D, 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Monument
Convoy Opera House / City Hall / Firehouse
Do Not Turn Warning Flasher
First County Library in the United States
First Successful Automobile
Here Lies Robert Nesbitt / The Western Terminus of the Lincoln Highway in Ohio
Hoghe Road Bridge
House Of Seven Oaks
In Memory of Jamey Davis
International 2-Row Beet Lifter
Interurban R. R. Tie
Jail Cell
John W. Lambert
Killing Spree Ends Here in 1948
Leslie C. Peltier
Liberty Township Veterans Memorial
Lincoln Highway Tourist Cabin
Marie Harel Statue
Miami and Erie Canal
Miami and Erie Canal / Delphos
Mile Marker Post
Ohio City
Ohio City
Ohio City Civil War Memorial
Old Cistern
Original Fourth Ward School Bell
Original plaque from Franklin Elementary School
Original Step
Penn RR Track Drill
Penn RR Track Gauges
Persian Gulf War Memorial
Robert Nesbit
Roll of Honor
Signal Cabinet And Flasher
Signal Cabinet and Flashers
Site of Indian Reservation
Site of the First Automobile Wreck
The Barn
The Brumback Library
The Historic Lincoln Highway
The Homestead
These carriage steps
Town Creek Foot Bridge
Track Inspection Car
Van Wert
Van Wert County Veterans Memorial
Van Wert County Veterans Memorial
Van Wert Gazebo
Venedocia War Memorial
Veterans War Mamemorial
Victor W. Gehres
Vietnam War Memorial
Wayne's Strategy
Willshire
Willshire Veterans Memorial
Willshire, Ohio
Window Lintel and Bricks
"Penn Railroad Depot Step"
The first European settlers in the area were predominantly of German and Swiss descent. They were attracted to the fertile soil and abundant natural resources, such as timber and waterways. The county's first permanent settlement, Delphos, was established in 1844 by John Ott, who came from Switzerland. Other communities soon followed, including Ohio City, Convoy, and Van Wert, the county seat.
The county's economy thrived in the 19th century, mainly due to agriculture and manufacturing. Van Wert became known as the "Kingdom of Stoves" because of its numerous stove manufacturing companies. With the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, the county's economy expanded further, allowing for easier transportation of goods and materials.
Throughout its history, Van Wert County has been home to many notable individuals and events. Notable residents include the philosopher and educator Albert Barnes, author Scott Russell Sanders, and Olympic gold medalist Dan O'Brien. The Van Wert County Courthouse, built in 1874, is a prominent architectural landmark in the area. The county has also been active in supporting the arts and culture, with various theaters, museums, and festivals showcasing local talent.
Today, Van Wert County continues to be a vibrant community, with a mix of rural and urban areas. The county's economy has diversified, and it is home to businesses in industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. The county's historical legacy is recognized and celebrated, with preservation efforts ensuring that its rich history is passed on to future generations.
Brief timeline of the history of Van Wert County, Ohio:
- October 1, 1821 - Van Wert County is officially established by Ohio state legislature.
- Early 1800s - Native American tribes, such as the Shawnee and Ottawa, inhabit the area.
- Early to mid-1800s - European settlers begin to arrive and establish communities.
- 1837 - Town of Van Wert is platted and becomes the county seat.
- Mid-1800s - Van Wert experiences a period of growth and development as agriculture and industry flourish.
- 1861-1865 - Civil War impacts Van Wert County as many residents enlist in Union Army.
- Late 1800s - Van Wert County experiences a decline in population due to economic factors.
- Early 1900s - The discovery of oil and gas brings a brief period of economic prosperity to the county.
- 1930s-1940s - The Great Depression and World War II have a significant impact on Van Wert County.
- 1950s-1990s - Van Wert County experiences continued growth and development, with improvements in infrastructure and agriculture.
- 2000s - Van Wert County focuses on revitalizing downtown areas and promoting tourism.
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Van Wert County, Ohio.