What is The Oldest City in Ohio?

Unveiling the History of Ohio's Oldest City - Where the Rivers Meet

This article explores Marietta's historical significance, tracing its journey from a frontier outpost to a charming riverboat town.

A Gateway to the West: The Founding of Marietta

Established in 1788 by a group of Revolutionary War veterans known as the Ohio Company of Associates, Marietta's founding predates Ohio's statehood by 15 years, as documented by the Ohio History Connection. These pioneers, led by General Rufus Putnam, were granted land in the Northwest Territory by the Continental Congress. The settlement was strategically located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, making it a natural gateway for westward expansion, a fact highlighted by historical markers and museums in Marietta, including the Campus Martius Museum. The town's original name was Adelphia, meaning "brotherhood" in Greek.

The First Official American Settlement in the Northwest Territory

Marietta holds a special place in American history as the first permanent U.S. settlement in the Northwest Territory. This territory, established by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, encompassed land that would eventually become the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and part of Minnesota. Marietta's establishment marked a significant step in the westward expansion of the United States, as detailed in historical accounts preserved by the National Park Service. The original fort was named Campus Martius.

A Riverboat Town: Marietta's Heyday on the Ohio

Marietta's location on the Ohio River shaped its destiny, transforming it into a bustling riverboat town during the 19th century. Steamboats became a common sight, transporting goods and people along the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, fueling Marietta's growth as a center of trade and commerce, as described in historical records maintained by the Washington County Historical Society. The city's riverfront became a hub of activity, with shipyards, warehouses, and businesses catering to the river traffic.

Preserving the Past: Marietta's Historic Landmarks

Marietta takes pride in preserving its rich history. The city boasts a remarkable collection of historic homes, buildings, and landmarks, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Historic Harmar Village, located on the west side of the Muskingum River, features beautifully preserved Victorian-era architecture, offering a glimpse into Marietta's 19th-century prosperity. The Ohio River Museum, situated on the banks of the Muskingum, tells the story of the region's riverboat heritage, as noted on the museum's website. The city has many mounds that are historic landmarks, including Sacra Via and Quadranaou.

A Modern City with a Rich Heritage

Today, Marietta is a vibrant city that honors its past while embracing the future. It's home to Marietta College, a respected liberal arts institution founded in 1835, adding to the city's cultural and intellectual life. While the riverboat era has faded, Marietta's connection to the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers remains strong, with recreational boating, fishing, and riverfront parks linking to its heritage.

Marietta, Ohio's oldest city, stands as a living testament to the pioneering spirit of early American settlers and the nation's westward expansion. Its strategic location at the confluence of two major rivers shaped its destiny, transforming it from a frontier outpost into a thriving riverboat town. Today, Marietta's well-preserved historic districts, museums, and vibrant cultural scene offer a captivating journey through time, making it a destination that history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the roots of Ohio and the American Midwest will find truly rewarding.

Sources:

• Ohio History Connection
• Campus Martius Museum
• National Park Service
• Washington County Historical Society
• Ohio River Museum
• Marietta College
• National Register of Historic Places