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Brown County in Ohio has a rich and fascinating history that spans more than 200 years. From its early days as part of the Virginia Territory to its role in the Underground Railroad, this region has played a critical role in shaping the history of the United States. Here are 7 interesting facts about Brown County in Ohio history:
1. Brown County Was Established in 1818
Brown County was established on March 1, 1818, and was named after General Jacob Brown, a hero of the War of 1812. The county was created from parts of Adams and Clermont counties and was originally part of the Virginia Territory.
2. John Rankin's Home Was a Key Stop on the Underground Railroad
John Rankin was a Presbyterian minister who lived in Ripley, Ohio, and his home was a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad. Rankin and his family helped more than 2,000 slaves escape to freedom in the North and Canada, and his home was a beacon of hope for many escaping slaves.
3. Brown County Was Home to the First Co-Ed College in the United States
Antioch College, located in Yellow Springs, Ohio, was the first co-educational college in the United States. The college was founded in 1852 by Horace Mann, who believed in the importance of education for all people, regardless of gender or race.
4. Ulysses S. Grant Was Born in Brown County
Ulysses S. Grant, who served as the 18th President of the United States, was born in Point Pleasant, Ohio, which is located in Brown County. Grant's childhood home still stands and is open to the public for tours.
5. Brown County Was Home to the First Women's Army Corps Unit
During World War II, the first Women's Army Corps (WAC) unit was established in Wilmington, Ohio, which is located in Brown County. The WAC was created to provide women with the opportunity to serve their country during the war.
6. Brown County Was Home to the First African American Lawyer in Ohio
William Howard Day was born in New York but moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he attended Oberlin College and became the first African American lawyer in Ohio. Day was also an abolitionist and helped to smuggle slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad.
7. Brown County Was Home to the First Female Mayor in Ohio
Esther G. Jones was elected as the first female mayor in Ohio in 1915. Jones, who was also the first female mayor in the United States to preside over a city with a population over 10,000, served as the mayor of Norwood, Ohio, which is located in Brown County.
These are just a few of the many interesting facts about Brown County in Ohio history. From its important role in the Underground Railroad to its contributions to women's rights and education, this region has played a critical role in shaping the history of the United States.
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