Georgetown, OH
County: Brown
History
Georgetown, Ohio, is a small town located in Brown County. Its history dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled in 1794 by Matthias Denman and Samuel Wilson, who were among the first pioneers in the area.
Georgetown was originally named Boston in honor of the city in Massachusetts. However, due to another town in Ohio holding the same name, it was later changed to Georgetown, after George Ely, a prominent early settler. The town quickly grew, attracting more settlers and establishing itself as an important regional center.
The village of Georgetown was officially incorporated in 1815, and it became the county seat of Brown County in 1818. This further solidified its importance as a center of commerce and government. The county courthouse was built in 1830, and it still stands today, making it the oldest courthouse in continuous use in Ohio.
During the 19th century, Georgetown saw significant growth as various industries sprouted up in the area. The Ohio Canal, which connected the Ohio River to Lake Erie, was completed in 1843, and Georgetown became an important transportation hub. The town's location along the canal brought economic prosperity, and it became a major shipping center for agricultural products.
Georgetown was also home to the Georgetown College (now Georgetown College) from 1849 until its closure in 1995. The college played a crucial role in educational and cultural development in the region.
The town has witnessed many historical events over the years. During the Civil War, Georgetown was an important stop on the Underground Railroad, which helped enslaved people escape to freedom. The town was also impacted by the devastating Ohio River flood of 1937, which caused significant damage to the area.
In recent years, Georgetown has faced economic challenges like many small towns in rural America. However, it continues to preserve its rich history and charm. The historic downtown area features well-preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century, including the beautiful Brown County Courthouse. The town also hosts various community events, such as the annual Festival of the Bells, which celebrates its history and heritage.
Today, Georgetown serves as a reminder of Ohio's early settlement history and showcases the resilience and spirit of its community.
Attractions
The Ulysses S. Grant Birthplace
A historic site that preserves the birthplace of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States.
The Brown County Fairgrounds
Hosts various events throughout the year, including the Brown County Fair, which features agricultural exhibitions, rides, concerts, and more.
Shawnee State Forest
Located nearby, this forest offers hiking trails, camping areas, fishing spots, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
The Russell Theatre
A historic movie theater built in the 1930s, this restored venue hosts screenings of classic films, community events, and live performances.
Serpent Mound
An ancient Native American earthwork mound shaped like a serpent, believed to have been built by the Adena culture over 1,000 years ago.
The Georgetown Dam
Located along the Ohio Brush Creek, this dam offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking.
The Ripley Museum
Just a short drive away in Ripley, Ohio, this museum showcases the rich history of the region, including exhibits on the Underground Railroad and local folklore.
The Village Art Circle
An art gallery and gift shop featuring works of local artists, pottery, jewelry, and other handmade crafts.
Ohio Veterans Memorial Park
Located in Maysville, Kentucky, just across the Ohio River, this park honors veterans from Ohio and Kentucky with memorials, plaques, and a museum.
Perin's Peak State Forest
A small state forest with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Climate
Georgetown, Ohio, experiences a humid continental climate. Summers in Georgetown are typically hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching into the upper 80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius). The humidity can make it feel even hotter, and occasional heatwaves can push temperatures into the triple digits.
Winters in Georgetown are generally cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Average highs in winter range in the 30s to 40s Fahrenheit (around 0 to 5 degrees Celsius), while lows can drop into the teens (around -10 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, and the region typically receives around 20-30 inches of snow each year.
Spring and autumn in Georgetown are transitional seasons with milder temperatures. Spring starts off cool, with increasing warmth as the season progresses. Temperatures in spring generally range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 10 to 20 degrees Celsius). Autumn is characterized by mild weather before transitioning into colder temperatures as winter approaches.
The average annual precipitation in Georgetown is around 40 inches (roughly 102 cm) with rainfall spread throughout the year with no particularly dry or wet seasons. Thunderstorms are common in the summer, and the region can occasionally experience severe weather including strong winds, hail, and even tornadoes.
In summary, Georgetown, Ohio, has hot and humid summers, cold and snowy winters, and mild transitional seasons in spring and autumn.
Neighborhoods
Georgetown, Ohio is a small village located in Brown County. Although it is a relatively small community, there are several distinct neighborhoods in Georgetown:
Downtown
The heart of Georgetown is its downtown area, which is characterized by its historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. This is where you'll find the village's main square and government offices.
East End
Located on the eastern side of Georgetown, this neighborhood offers a mix of residential and commercial properties. It is home to schools, parks, and various amenities.
West End
Situated on the western side of Georgetown, the West End is primarily a residential area. It features a mix of older homes and newer developments.
Village Green
Located in the center of Georgetown, the Village Green is a peaceful neighborhood filled with charming homes. It is known for its tree-lined streets and close-knit community.
Fairground Heights
This neighborhood surrounds the Brown County Fairgrounds in the northern part of Georgetown. It is primarily residential and offers a suburban atmosphere.
Willow Lake
Situated on the eastern outskirts of Georgetown, Willow Lake is a newer residential neighborhood. It features a number of single-family homes and offers a quiet, suburban setting.
Each neighborhood in Georgetown has its own unique characteristics and atmosphere, providing residents with a variety of options when it comes to choosing a place to live.