History of Wyandot County

Although it is one of the youngest counties in the State of Ohio, Wyandot County’s history dates back to the 1700’s when it was the seat of government of the Wyandot Indian nation. Carved out of sections of Crawford, Seneca and Hancock counties, Wyandot County was formed in 1845 from former tribal lands. Wyandot County was the last reservation of native peoples in Ohio before they were relocated west to Kansas and Oklahoma. Prior to settlement by the Wyandots, the area now called Wyandot County had served as hunting grounds for the indigenous population.
 
Settlement in the area occurred for two reasons: its strategic location (the ridge of the hill overlooking the Sandusky River in Upper Sandusky was the site of Fort Ferree, on Army outpost during the French-Indian War) between Lake Erie and Columbus and its rich agricultural land. Even today these are the two main sources of its continued prosperity.
 
Historical landmarks dot the area reminding its citizens and those who visit of its rich past. Just a few include:
  • McCutchen Overland Inn, an original stagecoach inn built in 1829 is one of the centerpieces of an active historical society (www.wyandothistory.org).
  • Our Lady of Consolation Basilica and Shrine, built in 1875 serves as a reminder of the deep religious convictOld Missionions of our early settlers (www.olcshrine.com).
  • Old Mission Church, the first mission of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America, originally constructed in 1824 (current building dates from 1889), is a National Shrine of the Methodist Church. Surrounding cemetery is the site of the famous “February 31” grave marker.
  • Wyandot County Courthouse, built in 1899 is one of the best preserved examples of classical architecture from the turn of the century. The County Municipal Courtroom served as the setting for courtroom scenes in “The Shawshank Redemption” classic movie.
The locations of these and other historic buildings and monuments can be found in the Map section of this website.
     
Wyandot County is served by three historical societies: The Wyandot County Historical Society, the Carey Historical Society and the Mohawk Historical Society and an active genealogical society, The Wyandot CountyTracers (www.udata.com/users/hsbaker/tracers).
 
The dedication of the current generation to the preservation of its historic homes, buildings, and monuments speaks highly of Wyandot County’s desire to learn about its past history and to save it for future generations.
River view