Marietta, Ohio
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| Marietta, Ohio | |
|---|---|
| Name | Marietta |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | The First City of the Old Northwest, Riverboat Town |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | Ohio |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Washington |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | April 7, 1788 |
| Government type | Mayor-Council |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Josh Schlicher |
| Area total km2 | 22.40 |
| Area total sq mi | 8.65 |
| Area land km2 | 21.40 |
| Area land sq mi | 8.26 |
| Area water km2 | 1.00 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.39 |
| Elevation m | 187 |
| Elevation ft | 614 |
| Population total | 13605 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 635.7 |
| Population density sq mi | 1646.6 |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 45750 |
| Area code | 740 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 39-47628 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 1061460 |
| Website | www.mariettaoh.net |
Marietta, Ohio. Founded in 1788 by pioneers from the Ohio Company of Associates, it is the first permanent American settlement in the Northwest Territory. The city is named in honor of Marie Antoinette and is situated at the confluence of the Ohio River and the Muskingum River. Marietta's rich history is preserved in its many historic districts and its vibrant community life centered on river commerce, education, and industry.
History
The settlement was established by a group led by Rufus Putnam and Manasseh Cutler under the auspices of the Ohio Company of Associates, following the Land Ordinance of 1785 and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787. Early structures included Campus Martius, a fortified community, and the Marietta Earthworks, ancient mounds built by the prehistoric Adena culture. The city served as a key river port during the steamboat era and was an important stop on the Underground Railroad. Significant 19th-century growth was fueled by shipbuilding, salt production, and the arrival of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The Marietta College was founded in 1835, further cementing the city's regional importance.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.65 square miles, with the Ohio River forming its southeastern border and the Muskingum River flowing through its center. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and river valleys, part of the Appalachian Plateau. The city is located within the Hocking Valley region and lies just downstream from the Parkersburg, West Virginia metropolitan area. Major geographic features include the confluence of the two rivers and the surrounding Wayne National Forest.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 13,605. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The median household income is below the state average, and a significant portion of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, largely due to the presence of Marietta College. The population density is approximately 1,647 people per square mile.
Economy
Historically centered on river trade and manufacturing, Marietta's modern economy includes a mix of chemical production, healthcare, and education. Major employers include the Memorial Health System and Solvay, a global chemical company with a long-standing presence in the city. The Washington County seat, its economy is also supported by tourism related to its historic sites, Ohio River Museum, and the annual Marietta Sweet Corn Festival. The Appalachian Regional Commission designates the area for economic development initiatives.
Education
The city is served by the Marietta City School District, which includes Marietta High School. Higher education is anchored by Marietta College, a private liberal arts institution founded in 1835, which is known for its programs in petroleum engineering, athletic training, and its historic connection to the Marietta Pioneers athletic teams. The college's campus includes the Dawes Memorial Library and the McDonough Center for Leadership and Business.
Culture
Marietta's culture is deeply connected to its river heritage and early American history. Key institutions include the Campus Martius Museum, the Ohio River Museum, and the The Castle, a historic Gothic Revival home. The city hosts the Marietta Aquatic Center and the Marietta College theatre productions. Annual events like the Marietta Harvest Moon Regatta and the Sternwheel Festival celebrate its nautical past. The downtown area, with its brick streets and historic architecture, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Category:Cities in Ohio Category:Washington County, Ohio Category:Populated places established in 1788 Category:1788 establishments in the United States