Revolutionary War connections run deeper in Delaware County than most residents realize. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Delaware County Historical Society Executive Director Donna Meyer reveals the fascinating links between our community and the nation's founding that have remained hidden in plain sight for generations.
When the cash-strapped new American government couldn't pay Revolutionary War soldiers with money, they compensated them with "bounty lands" - including what would later become Delaware County. The more prestigious your military rank, the more acreage you received. These land grants directly shaped our community's development, with many veterans selling their properties to speculators who would eventually establish settlements. Moses Bixby, the town's founder, acquired numerous such deeds before planting the town of Delaware in 1808. Even today, our street names - like Winter Street, named after Bixby's wife's maiden name (Witter) - reflect this founding history.
Perhaps most remarkable is the discovery that over 100 Revolutionary War soldiers are buried throughout Delaware County. William Warrington, interred at Mill Creek Cemetery near Ostrander, served as one of George Washington's personal bodyguards and reportedly intercepted poison intended for the general - potentially altering American history. Warrington, who fathered 17 children through four marriages, represents just one of countless stories waiting to be uncovered.
The Historical Society has launched several initiatives to celebrate America's 250th birthday, including mapping Revolutionary War graves, creating cemetery driving tours with costumed reenactors, and establishing a Student Ambassador Program for high school students. These young history enthusiasts complete volunteer hours with local historical organizations and attend special classes on America's founding to earn ceremonial graduation cords.
Explore this rich heritage yourself by visiting the Meeker Museum (housed in an 1823 home built by Revolutionary War veteran Forrest Meeker), the Nash House Museum, or the historic jail during First Friday tours. The Delaware County Historical Society offers walking tours, driving guides, and research resources to help uncover the revolutionary history hiding beneath our feet.
Connect with your community's revolutionary past and join in celebrating America's 250th anniversary through these upcoming events and historical explorations. Visit delawareohiohistory.org to learn more about how our local story intertwines with the nation's founding narrative.
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