Portsmouth, Ohio, has a rich history and unique cultural features. Founded in 1803, Portsmouth is among the earliest communities created in Kyova. A once-prosperous city, Portsmouth has seen considerable decline in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, but boasts a strong population of proud people.
Here are some fun facts about Portsmouth, Ohio:
- James Ashley, Abolitionist: Portsmouth was home to James Ashley, an activist and politician that is best known for advocating for the freeing of enslaved African Americans. After being elected to the United States Congress, he authored the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States.
- Underground Railroad: Portsmouth played a significant role in the Underground Railroad. The city was a key location for escaped slaves crossing the Ohio River from Kentucky to freedom in the North.
- Industrial Manufacturing: By 1916, during World War I, Portsmouth was listed as being a major industrial and jobbing center, the nation’s fourth-largest shoe manufacturing center, and the nation’s largest manufacturer of fire and paving bricks.
- City Population: The city population peaked at just over 42,000 in 1930.
- Presidential Visits: In September 2004, President George W. Bush visited the city as part of his reelection campaign. During the 2008 campaign, numerous candidates and surrogates visited Portsmouth, and some spoke at the local university, Shawnee State University: Bill Clinton on behalf of Hillary Clinton, Republican nominee John McCain, and future President Barack Obama.
- Top Micropolitan Areas: New investments and developments in the local economy led to Portsmouth’s inclusion in Site Selection Magazine‘s “Top 10 Micropolitan areas”.
- Hallmark’s Hometown Christmas Town: In 2019, Portsmouth was named Hallmarks’ Hometown Christmas Town. The Friends of Portsmouth group held the annual Winterfest celebration event that brought Christmas lights, vendors, ice skating, carriage rides, tree lighting, and more to Market Square.
- Floodwall Murals: Portsmouth is famous for its 2,000-foot-long floodwall murals along the Ohio River, which depict the city’s history, people, and events. These murals were created by artist Robert Dafford and have become a major tourist attraction.
- Boneyfiddle District: The historic Boneyfiddle District in Portsmouth is known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The area is filled with antique shops, cafes, and art galleries, making it a charming place to explore.
- Shawnee State Forest: Located near Portsmouth, Shawnee State Forest is Ohio’s largest state forest, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching. The forest is often referred to as the “Little Smokies” because of its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Portsmouth Spartans: The Portsmouth Spartans were an early NFL team that later moved to Detroit and became the Detroit Lions. The team’s history is an integral part of Portsmouth’s sports heritage.
- Collegiate Influence: Portsmouth is home to Shawnee State University, which provides cultural and educational opportunities for the community and offers a beautiful campus for students and visitors.
- Annual Events: The city hosts several annual events, including the River Days Festival, which features parades, pageants, and a fireworks display, and the Winter Wonderland of Lights, a holiday light display that attracts visitors from all around.
- Roy Rogers: The famous cowboy singer and actor Roy Rogers was born in Cincinnati but spent part of his childhood in Portsmouth. His legacy is celebrated in the area, adding to the local charm.
These fun facts about Portsmouth, Ohio highlight Portsmouth’s historical significance, cultural richness, and community spirit. We hope this post serves as a reminder to love where you live!