Hidden History of Athens County, Ohio

Today, Athens County is known for its peaceful and idyllic character, but in days gone by, the area was far less sedate.

Small towns like Redtown, Hebbardsville or Eclipse got their names from early settlers and coal barons who brought ambition and industry with them. The area’s deep history of coal mining is well known, but salt manufacturing, railroads and canals also thrived--for a time. Albany, Amesville and Athens all played a part in leading freedom seekers north on the Underground Railroad, and John Morgan Hunt set barns and bridges ablaze during his Civil War raid.

Athens County native and Local History Department Librarian Lorinda LeClain unearths these little-known stories and many more.

Lorinda LeClain grew up in Athens County, Ohio. She received her associate’s degree in business from Hocking College and a bachelor’s in humanities from Central State University. For the past twenty-nine years, she has worked for the Athens County Public Libraries and is the caretaker of the Local History Department at the main library in Nelsonville. Previously, she wrote Nelsonville in the Images of America series. History and genealogy have been lifelong passions of hers. In her off time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, son and beloved dog.