The History of Powell OH

by Andrew Robinson

Powell, Ohio is a small, affluent suburb located just north of Columbus, the state capital. The community has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century, and it has played a significant role in the development of central Ohio.

In the early 1800s, Powell was a dense forest inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Delaware nations. The area was first surveyed in 1801 by Lucas Sullivant, a prominent land surveyor and founder of the nearby city of Franklinton. Sullivant named the area "Powell's Purchase" after Judge Thomas Powell, a land speculator from Virginia who purchased a large tract of land in the region.

In the decades that followed, Powell's Purchase became a popular destination for settlers from the East Coast, who were drawn by the abundance of fertile land and the prospect of a new life in the wilderness. Among the first settlers to arrive in Powell were Thomas D. Bush, a Revolutionary War veteran, and his family, who built a cabin in the area in 1805.

As the population of Powell grew, so did the need for infrastructure and community services. In 1816, a group of local residents formed the Powell Agricultural Society, which played a key role in the development of the community. The society built the first school in Powell, as well as a church and a grist mill.

In the late 19th century, Powell experienced a period of rapid growth as the city of Columbus expanded northward. The construction of the Columbus and Toledo Railroad through Powell in 1873 sparked a wave of development, and the community became a popular suburb for wealthy businessmen and their families. Many of the grand Victorian mansions that still stand in Powell today were built during this period.

Today, Powell is a thriving community with a population of over 13,000. The city has a strong sense of community and a rich history, and it is home to many historic landmarks, including the Olde Sawmill neighborhood, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Despite its rapid growth, Powell has managed to retain its small-town charm and sense of community. It is a great place to live, work, and raise a family, and it has a bright future ahead.

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