Although it was not a state until 1803, there are endless historical treasures throughout the great state of Ohio. Being the birthplace of 8 presidents, Ohio has a mixture of just about everything including tombs, monuments, museums and a handful of eerie places. Having artifacts from the great inventor, Thomas Edison, the Wright Brothers, the War of 1812, and more, you just can’t get enough history from this state. There are countless landmarks throughout the state, I couldn’t possibly name them all, but here are 15 places you don’t want to miss.
For the lovers of textbook history:
Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Cincinnati
This exhibit is actually news to me, so I thought I would share it with others who probably are unaware of it! Most infamous for her book Uncle Tom’s Cabinet, Harriet Beecher Stowe lived in the house with her family from 1833 to 1836.
National Museum of the United States Air Force, Dayton
The museum is housed on the grounds of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, right outside of Dayton, Ohio. Named after the Wright Brothers, the museum is located near Huffman Prairie, where the brothers experimented with flight. The museum showcases many of the brothers’ technology.
Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum, Milan
One of history’s most infamous inventors was born right here in the great state of Ohio. What is now an Edison museum, is located in the house where Thomas Alva Edison was born.history’s most infamous inventors was born right here in the great state of Ohio. What is now an Edison museum, is located in the house where Thomas Alva Edison was born.
Perry’s Monument, Put-in-Bay
Named after commander, Oliver Hazard Perry, the monument represents the peace between Canada, the United States and Great Britain after the Battle of Lake Eerie in the War of 1812.
For those interested in U.S. Presidents, here are some Ohio highlights:
James A. Garfield Home, Mentor
Learn about 20th President, James A. Garfield in his Mentor home, which lies near Eleanor B. Garfield Park, a perfect place for a picnic. Visit Lakeview Cemetery in Cleveland to view Garfield’s final resting place.
Ulysses S. Grant Boyhood Home, Georgetown
The location features the schoolhouse and home of President Ulysses S. Grant, in which he resided from 1823-1839. Not far away lies his birthplace. Both areas offer seasonal tours.
Warren G. Harding Home and Tomb, Marion
Take a tour of the home of President Warren G. Harding and his wife, where you will encounter a multitude of artifacts. In addition, travel just down the road to Harding Memorial Park to find the final resting place of the President and family.
William McKinley Library and Museum, Canton
Ohio has several remnants from the 25th President, William McKinley. Visit his Presidential Library and Museum in Canton, which houses many artifacts. Canton also houses President McKinley’s tomb. For more on the former President, take a drive just outside of Cleveland to see his birthplace.
For those interested in the old and eerie treasures of the state:
Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield
Operating from 1896 to 1990, the Ohio State Reformatory still sits in Mansfield, now empty of inmates, but full of tourists. Perhaps most notorious for serving as the backdrop for the Shawshank Redemption, and its various appearances on TV shows such as Ghost Hunters, Ghost Adventures and Ghost Asylum the prison attracts multiple realms of people including lovers of history and lovers of the paranormal.
Licking County Jail, Newark
This central Ohio jail is also notorious for its ghosts since drawing in Travel Channel’s Ghost Adventures. The jail also can’t help but display its history. If you are intrigued by dark, old and creepy, this is the place for you.
Prospect Place, Trinway
Another star of Syfy’s Ghost Hunters, Prospect Place gives you the creep vibe as soon as you pull up. Explore the history behind this underground railroad stop from the basement, where slaves were hidden, all the way to the peak, that was lit up to signal to slaves. This mansion is a must see.
Athens Lunatic Asylum, Athens
Also known as The Ridges, this former mental hospital was in operation from 1874-1993. The building housed mentally disabled Civil War veterans, children and even violent criminals. Just imagine the energy this place houses, not to mention the history. The building now belongs to Ohio University but offers tours on select days.
Other places filled with beauty and multiple realms of history:
Malabar Farm, Lucas
This beautiful farm is a hot spot for weddings and outdoor events as well as tours of the grounds and the mansion. The farm features a cabin that was the notorious opening scene for the Shawshank Redemption as well as the Ceely Rose house which was another stop for Ghost Hunters. The grounds also contain a gift shop and wagon tours.
Ohio History Center, Columbus
You cannot say you have covered all of Ohio’s history without a visit to the state historical society and museum. The exhibits are constantly changing and the two-floor facility also offers an interactive historical village outdoors during the summer. This is a good starting spot when exploring the history of Ohio.
Lakeview Cemetery, Cleveland
While Lakeview Cemetery may not be regarded as the oldest, the creepiest or even largest in the state, it is perhaps most beautiful. The cemetery is large and does have many points of interest including the grave of Ohio State Reformatory architect, Levi T. Scofield, tomb of President Garfield and his wife as well as the infamous “weeping angel.” The grounds also contain a beautiful structure filled with Tiffany glass.
