Driving through Lancaster, Ohio

Lancaster, Ohio, a city in the south-central region of the state, serves as the county seat of Fairfield County. Situated approximately 33 miles southeast of Columbus and 38 miles southwest of Zanesville, Lancaster lies near the Hocking River and is part of the Columbus metropolitan area. The city's population, as recorded in the 2020 census, stands at 40,552.
Historical Context
Lancaster's rich history is deeply intertwined with the ancient cultures that once inhabited the region. The area was originally settled by the Hopewell, Adena, and Fort Ancient Native American cultures. These groups are renowned for their construction of elaborate burial and ceremonial mounds throughout the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys. While much of their civilization has faded, archaeological sites such as Serpent Mound and the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park offer glimpses into their past.
The historical narrative of Lancaster begins to unfold more distinctly with the arrival of European explorers and settlers. Prior to European settlement, the region was inhabited by the Shawnee, Iroquois, Wyandot, and other Native American tribes. These tribes frequently clashed with one another, utilizing the area's natural crossroads for various inter- and intra-tribal conflicts.
In January 1751, frontier explorer Christopher Gist ventured into the region, noting the small Delaware town of Hockhocking in the vicinity. Gist's exploration marked an early European interaction with the land that would become Lancaster.
Following the American Revolution and the Treaty of Paris, which ceded control of the Northwest Territory to the United States, settlers began to move into Ohio. The land, previously under British control, was now open for American expansion. This period saw a series of confrontations between settlers and Native Americans, culminating in the Battle of Fallen Timbers in 1794 and the Treaty of Greenville in 1795, which secured the area for American settlement.
The establishment of Lancaster can be traced back to 1796 when Ebenezer Zane, a pioneer and land speculator, was awarded a contract to blaze a trail through Ohio, known as Zane's Trace. As part of this agreement, Zane acquired land along the Hocking River. By 1800, the village of Lancaster was officially founded, making it three years older than the state of Ohio itself. The town, originally named New Lancaster and later shortened by city ordinance in 1805, thrived with the establishment of nearby villages and the connection of the Hocking Canal to the Ohio and Erie Canal, facilitating the transport of agricultural goods to eastern markets.
Lancaster's growth was driven by a significant influx of German immigrants, many from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The city became a center of activity for German-American culture. The local press also played a notable role in the city’s history, with the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette emerging from the merger of two early Ohio newspapers with opposing political views during the American Civil War.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, Lancaster covers a total area of 18.90 square miles (48.95 km²), with 0.06 square miles (0.16 km²) being water. The city is characterized by its scenic location near the Hocking River and its proximity to the larger Columbus metropolitan area.
Economy
Lancaster's economy is bolstered by several major employers. The Fairfield Medical Center is the largest employer, followed by Anchor Hocking, a prominent glass manufacturing company. Other significant employers include the Fairfield County government, Lancaster City Schools, and retail chains like Kroger.
Arts and Culture
Lancaster hosts a variety of cultural and historical attractions. The Fairfield County Fair, held annually in October, is a major event featuring agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and community activities. The city is also home to several museums, including the AHA! A Hands-on Adventure children’s museum, the Georgian Museum, the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, and the Ohio Glass Museum. These institutions celebrate Lancaster’s heritage and provide educational experiences for residents and visitors.
Education
The Lancaster City School District operates the local high school, and the city also benefits from the presence of the Fairfield County District Library and Ohio University-Lancaster, a branch campus of Ohio University.
Media
The Lancaster Eagle-Gazette, the city's daily newspaper, along with the Lancaster Living Magazine, serves as key sources of local news and community information.
Notable People
Lancaster has been home to several notable individuals, including Civil War figures William Tecumseh Sherman and John Sherman, as well as contemporary personalities like actor David Graf and designer Robert G. Heft. The city’s historical and cultural significance is reflected in the achievements of its residents across various fields.