Welcome to the Kenton Courthouse Square Historic District, a vibrant center of history and community life in Kenton, Ohio. This district is steeped in stories from the past, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of American history.
Kenton, named after the renowned frontiersman Simon Kenton, was originally a strategic military site during the War of 1812. Fort McArthur, erected here by Colonel Duncan McArthur, was part of General William Hull’s campaign against British forces at Fort Detroit. By 1845, Kenton was incorporated as a village and later developed into a city in 1886, growing from its origins as a hub for agricultural trade.
One of the most significant periods in Kenton’s history was from 1890 to 1952 when it was home to the Kenton Hardware Company. This company was famous for producing locks and cast-iron toys, including the beloved Gene Autry toy cap guns. This era marked Kenton as a major player in the American industrial landscape of the time.
Another notable aspect of Kenton’s history is its connection to the International Car Company, known for manufacturing rail cabooses. Although the company was eventually closed by Paccar in 1983 due to declining demand, it remains a testament to the city’s industrial past.
Kenton is also known for its unique place in pop culture history. In 2001, the city was the site where the infamous ‘CSX 8888 incident’—an unmanned freight train—came to a dramatic halt.
As you stroll through the district, imagine the bustling streets in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, filled with the sounds of industry and commerce. Each building, each corner, holds memories of the people who lived and worked here, shaping this community into what it is today.
Whether you’re walking through or just passing by, the Kenton Courthouse Square Historic District invites you to explore its historical depths and imagine the lives of those who called this place home.
