National Register Listing

Putnam, Rufus, House

a.k.a. Campus Martius;Campus Martius Museum State Memorial;See Also

Campus Martius Museum, corner of 2nd and Washington Sts., Marietta, OH
Local significance of the building:
Military; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1970.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
Audiobooks about the history of Ohio.
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.
Ohio random facts
Located in the southeastern region of Ohio, Washington County has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Adena and Hopewell cultures, who left behind numerous earthworks and burial mounds. European settlement began in the late 18th century, with the establishment of Marietta, which became the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory in 1788.

During the early years of settlement, the region experienced conflicts between Native American tribes and settlers. The Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794 marked a turning point, leading to the Treaty of Greenville and the ceding of Native American lands in the area. This allowed for further growth and development of the region. Washington County became an important center for agriculture, trade, and river transportation due to its location along the Ohio River, with Marietta serving as a key trading port.

In the 19th century, Washington County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, with various anti-slavery activists and abolitionists providing refuge and assistance to freedom seekers. The county also experienced economic advancements during this period, with the development of industries such as oil, iron, and salt. Oil was discovered in the area in the late 19th century, leading to a boom in oil production and the establishment of refineries.

In the 20th century, Washington County continued to evolve, with the growth of manufacturing and tourism industries. The area's historical significance remains cherished, with various historic sites and landmarks showcasing its rich past. Today, Washington County is a vibrant community that blends its historical heritage with modern amenities, offering a diverse range of recreational activities, cultural events, and a strong sense of community pride.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Washington County, Ohio.

  • 1788: Washington County, Ohio, was established as the first county in the Northwest Territory.
  • 1789: Marietta, the first permanent settlement in Ohio, was founded in Washington County.
  • 1792: The Ohio Company's purchase of land in Washington County brought many new settlers to the area.
  • 1796: Ohio became a state, and Washington County was divided into multiple counties.
  • Early 1800s: Washington County thrived as a center of agriculture, trade, and industry.
  • Early 1900s: Oil and gas production boomed in the county, bringing economic growth.
  • Mid-1900s: Washington County faced economic decline due to the decline of manufacturing industries.
  • 21st Century: The county has focused on revitalization efforts, tourism, and diversification of the economy.