Welcome to Fredericktown, a place where history whispers through the brickwork and the landscape echoes tales of early American life. Established in 1807 by John Kerr, Fredericktown’s story begins with the construction of a mill that was pivotal to its growth. Kerr was granted 50 acres by Lucas Sullivant, a surveyor from Virginia, on the condition that he would build a mill. This strategic decision turned Fredericktown into a settlement magnet for those traveling from the east.
During the War of 1812, this small village stood on the edge of the American frontier. Fredericktown was home to a blockhouse, a fortification that provided protection for the settlers. After the war, this same blockhouse became a hub of community life, serving as both a school and a church. By 1840, the population had grown to 500, marking Fredericktown as a commercial center in Knox County. The arrival of the Sandusky, Mansfield and Newark Railroad in 1853 transformed the village into a bustling center for trade, shipping local produce across the nation.
Two devastating fires in 1875 and 1913 reshaped its architectural landscape, leading to the construction of durable brick buildings, many of which still stand today. Fredericktown also became known as a bedroom community in the 20th century, providing a peaceful home for people working in nearby Mount Vernon and Mansfield.
Notable figures such as the Farquhar brothers played significant roles in surveying and platting the land, helping to mold Fredericktown into the village it is today. For those interested in delving deeper into its history, the Fredericktown Historical Museum offers a window into its rich past.
Fredericktown is not just a place on the map but a living testament to the resilience and determination of its early settlers. As you explore, imagine the sound of the mill wheel turning, the clamor of the first market, and the community gathering in the blockhouse for education and worship. These stories are the threads that weave the fabric of Fredericktown’s history.
