🔎 3. How did pioneer settlers shape Franklinton?

The Settlement of Franklinton

In 1797, the village of Franklinton was created on the west bank near the “forks of the Scioto River.” This is where the Scioto River and the Olentangy River meet. The west bank of the Scioto River was lower ground. This was good for farming. 

Franklinton was a forest with many wild animals when the pioneer settlers arrived. Pioneers of Franklinton used timber from the trees to build homes. They built brick schools, churches, courthouses, and stores. They also farmed the land. ​​

There were many “firsts” in the pioneer village. Among the first settlers were the first church minister, the first doctor, and the first sheriff. 

New settlers soon offered goods and services to the village. Two stores were opened for people to buy goods. There was also a market where the village’s farmers could sell their surplus (extra) corn, cattle, and hogs. 

Mail delivery was an important service. A 13 year old boy traveled 45 miles to Chillicothe to deliver and pick up mail. 

There were no bridges across the Scioto River until 1815. One entrepreneur started a ferry boat service to carry people across. He also owned a hotel in Franklinton. 

A few African Americans came with the white pioneer settlers as servants. They came from Kentucky, where African Americans were enslaved. But in Ohio, they were free workers who were paid. 

Native Americans and the War of 1812

There were times of conflict and cooperation between white settlers and Native Americans in Franklinton. Trade was an example of cooperation. White settlers traded nails, knives, scissors, mirrors, and even bells to Native Americans. In return, Native American traded deer hides and furs that settlers could use to make clothes and blankets. 

In 1812, the U.S. and Great Britain went to war. Franklinton played an important role in this war. An American general came there to organize soldiers and supplies. He also worked out a peace treaty (agreement) with Native Americans so they would not join the British side in the war. A Wyandot chief spoke for Native Americans, and agreed they would not help the British.

The first newspaper also began in 1812. It covered the events of the war, including details about the peace meeting with the Native Americans. 

Pandemics were common in pioneer villages in the early 1800s. During the war, a disease called typhus broke out in Franklinton. Many people died, including the wife of Franklinton's founder, who was caring for ill soldiers. 

Franklinton continued to grow after the war. By 1840, there were 394 residents in the village. 

In 1870, Franklinton became part of the city of Columbus. 

Questions for Review

1. How did pioneer settlers change the land? 

2. How did pioneer settlers receive goods and services? 

3. How did Franklinton settlers and Native Americans cooperate? 

4. How was Franklinton involved in the war between the U.S. and Great Britain?

5. What were some of the challenges of pioneer life in Franklinton?