Discovering Barnesville: History, Attractions & More!
Could a town's past truly shape its present, and more importantly, its future? In the heart of America, nestled amidst rolling hills and historical landmarks, lies Barnesville a village where history isn't just a subject of study, but a living, breathing entity interwoven into the very fabric of its existence.
Barnesville, an unincorporated community in Ryan Township, Pennsylvania, United States, is also home to The Watt Center for History and the Arts, providing a hub for cultural exploration and engagement. The original office building of the Watt Car and Wheel Company now stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage, with exhibits detailing the history of coal and the area's business, industry, and agriculture. This hamlet, once vital to the nearby Rust Belt industries, finds itself situated between the center and eastern thirds of the southern anthracite coal region, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Unincorporated community in Ryan Township, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Historical Significance | Originally built to support nearby rust belt industries, located between the center and eastern thirds of the southern anthracite coal region. Served as a major hospital site for wounded southern troops during the civil war. |
| Key Landmarks | The Watt Center for History and the Arts; the original office building of the Watt Car and Wheel Company (now exhibits).Lakewood Park Campground |
| Industries/Business | Coal history, area business, industry, and agriculture |
| Demographics | Population over 2,600 residents in Barnesville, Ohio. Population was 4,008 at the 2020 census in Belmont County, Ohio. |
| Other Notable Points | Host to the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival every September. Was the "buggy capital of the south" during its heyday. Home to the Barnesville Hospital. |
| Media | Barnesville Herald (founded Feb. 7, 1979) |
| Date Founded | Barnesville, Pennsylvania: Unknown, Barnesville, Ohio: 1808 |
| Founding Figures | Gideon Barnes (Barnesville, PA - founder). James Barnes (Barnesville, OH - first settler) |
Barnesville, Ohio, presents a different historical facet, as a village in Belmont County. It is located in the central portion of Warren Township and forms part of the Wheeling metropolitan area. The town's roots go back to James Barnes, the initial settler. This area, too, carries a rich history, with a population of 4,008 recorded in the 2020 census. The Barnesville Historic District, established in 1808, consists of roughly 40 acres and around 180 buildings. The district was then added to the National Register on July 19, 1984.
Barnesville, Georgia, offers a contrasting chapter. Founded in 1826, it's named for Gideon Barnes, who owned a local tavern. The citys story has been chronicled in "Barnesvilles 200 Years: A Pictorial History," a book that vividly illustrates the town's and surrounding area's journey through time. It was also known as the "buggy capital of the south" during its prime, even producing buggies for presidents!
The Barnesville Herald, established on February 7, 1979, with Frank Heflin as publisher and Mike Bradford as editor, reflects another facet of community history. In the spring of the same year, Quimby Melton Jr., the publisher of the Griffin Daily News and associated weekly newspapers, acquired the Barnesville Herald. The newspaper's legacy continues as she is a fourth generation newspaper publisher.
Barnesville, in its various incarnations, often intertwines its narrative with the stories of its landmarks. Lakewood Park Campground, located on the former site of the 'Lakewood Park' amusement park and theater, provides a venue for memories. Thousands once flocked to this park to enjoy amenities like music, rides, swimming, theater, boxing, and more. Similarly, Barnesville Hospital stands as a reminder of the community's commitment to healthcare, established over seventy-five years ago by local leaders. Today, the hospital serves as a vital resource for the families, friends, and visitors of Barnesville.
The town of Barnesville is not just a place, but a living story. It is a story of overcoming challenges and fostering community. In Barnesville, history is not confined to textbooks or museums, but is woven into the fabric of daily life. From the early days when the first white man set foot in the area, through the industrial boom and the Civil War, Barnesville has continually reinvented itself.
Early settlers like Jenks and Gideon Barnes saw the potential in this area. By 1808, Barnesville had developed to have several residences, a log store, a tavern and other businesses. Shanna English, of the Old Jail Museum and Archives, has provided a narrative of the towns rich history. The history of Barnesville is marked by transformation, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
Furthermore, the story of Barnesville is etched in its architecture, particularly within the Barnesville Historic District. The district, originally platted in 1808, includes roughly 40 acres and 180 buildings, many dating back to the 1800s. The district's presence is a reminder of the community's past and its dedication to preserving its historical heritage. Adding the area to the National Register on July 19, 1984, underscores the community's devotion to its past.
Barnesvilles journey through time is further reflected in the book, Barnesvilles 200 Years: A Pictorial History. With over 450 images, the publication does not only illustrate the village and its surrounding areas history, but it also examines the depth of its historical past. The book dives into the early development of the area, showcasing the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of its inhabitants.
The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival, held every September, attracts tourists from far and wide. This event is not just a source of entertainment; it is a means to bring together the community and highlight the unique charms of the area. The festival encapsulates the spirited culture of Barnesville and offers a glimpse into its vibrant heart.
The Watt Center for History and the Arts plays an essential role. It not only houses displays related to coal history and regional business, industry, and agriculture but also stands as a hub of learning. It's a place where the legacy of Barnesville's past is preserved and where the community can connect with its heritage. It provides a platform for discussion, education, and preservation of the rich past of Barnesville.
The Barnesville Hospital, another important institution, signifies the communitys commitment to well-being. The hospital, formed over seventy-five years ago by local leaders, continues to serve the community, providing health care for families, friends, and visitors. It signifies that Barnesvilles commitment to its residents remains strong.
The historical essence of Barnesville is also found in the stories of its citizens. From the early days when the community was established by Indian fighters to the Buggy Barons, the town has been defined by the people who have made their homes there. These individuals helped shape the cultural, social, and economic fabric of Barnesville.
Barnesville's story is further enriched by institutions like the Barnesville Herald, which has been a source of news for the community since February 7, 1979. The newspaper, with its different publishers and editors, has documented the story of Barnesville, chronicling its happenings, challenges, and triumphs. It helps to keep the community connected and informed.
Moreover, Barnesville has adapted to the changes. Originally a settlement built to support nearby industries, the village has reinvented itself to meet new challenges. The towns ability to change is a testament to its resilience and its dedication to its citizens.
Barnesvilles narrative is an ongoing one, a constant interplay between the past, present, and the future. It has adapted and grown. With its rich history, institutions, and people, Barnesville stands as a testament to the power of place and the importance of community.
The town of Barnesville is an example of how the past can inspire the present. Barnesville's story will continue to be written with each new chapter. As the village continues to grow, one thing remains constant: the spirit of Barnesville.
