St. Marys, OH
County: Auglaize
History
St. Marys, Ohio, located in Auglaize County, has a long and rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The area where St. Marys is situated was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami tribes. These tribes made use of the fertile land around the St. Marys River for farming and hunting.
The town of St. Marys was founded in 1823 by European-American settlers. The origin of the town's name is traced back to two Jesuit missionaries, who named the town in honor of the Virgin Mary. The area was known for its natural resources, particularly the discovery of high-quality limestone along the river. This limestone was used for the construction of many structures in the town, including churches and courthouses.
In the mid-19th century, the construction of the Miami and Erie Canal brought significant growth and economic prosperity to St. Marys. The canal provided a crucial link for transporting goods and raw materials between Lake Erie and the Ohio River. As a result, St. Marys became an important hub for trade and transportation.
As the town continued to develop, various industries flourished, including agriculture, milling, and manufacturing. St. Marys became a leading producer of agricultural machinery, cement, and iron products.
Throughout its history, St. Marys experienced several setbacks, including devastating floods that damaged the town in 1913 and 1959. However, the community always managed to recover and rebuild.
In recent years, St. Marys has focused on revitalizing its downtown area, preserving its historical buildings, and fostering a sense of community. Today, the town retains its small-town charm while offering modern amenities and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
St. Marys, Ohio, prides itself on its rich history and celebrates it through events, museums, and heritage sites. The town's Historical Society operates the charming, restored St. Marys Museum, which showcases artifacts and memorabilia from the past. Additionally, visitors can explore the historical architecture and landmarks scattered throughout the town.
Overall, the history of St. Marys, Ohio, reflects the resilience and adaptability of its community, which has transformed a humble settlement into a thriving town with a unique heritage.
Attractions
Grand Lake St. Marys
The largest inland lake in Ohio, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking.
Memorial Park
A scenic park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a memorial dedicated to veterans.
Armstrong Air and Space Museum
A museum honoring astronaut Neil Armstrong, featuring exhibits on space exploration and aviation history.
The Bicycle Museum of America
Showcasing a wide collection of bicycles and related memorabilia.
St. Marys Marina
A marina offering boat rentals, fishing supplies, and access to Grand Lake St. Marys.
K.C. Geiger Park
A recreational area with playgrounds, sports fields, and a splash pad for children.
St. Marys Historical Museum
Preserving the history of St. Marys with exhibits showcasing artifacts, photos, and stories.
Canal Street Square
A historic district with charming architecture, shops, and restaurants.
St. Marys Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts held in the summer, featuring local and regional musical talents.
Westbank Walkway
A scenic walking path along the Miami and Erie Canal offering beautiful views of the river and wildlife.
Climate
St. Marys, OH has a humid continental climate. It experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers in St. Marys are typically warm and humid, with average daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves can occasionally push temperatures into the 90s Fahrenheit (above 32 degrees Celsius).
Winters in St. Marys are cold and snowy. Average daytime temperatures during winter months range from the mid-20s to the low 30s Fahrenheit (-4 to 0 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is common, with an average annual accumulation of around 30 inches (76 cm).
Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures. Spring can be wet, and temperatures gradually warm up from the 40s to the 60s Fahrenheit (4-21 degrees Celsius). Autumn is generally cooler, with temperatures starting in the 60s and gradually dropping to the 40s Fahrenheit (15-4 degrees Celsius).
St. Marys experiences moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual rainfall of around 40 inches (102 cm). The wettest months are typically May and June, while the driest months tend to be January and February.
Overall, St. Marys, OH has a typical Midwestern climate, with warm summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.
Neighborhoods
St. Marys, Ohio is a small city located in Auglaize County. While it is not divided into official neighborhoods, there are several distinct areas that residents often refer to. Here are some of the different neighborhoods and areas in St. Marys:
Downtown
The heart of St. Marys is its historic downtown district. It features a charming mix of local businesses, shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The downtown area is known for its quaint atmosphere and is a gathering place for community events and festivals.
South St. Marys
Located south of Grand Lake St. Marys, this neighborhood is primarily residential. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartment complexes. South St. Marys is a quieter area with tree-lined streets and parks.
Eagles Point
This area is situated along the western edge of Grand Lake St. Marys. It is a popular neighborhood for individuals who enjoy water activities and outdoor recreation. Eagles Point offers waterfront properties, boating access, and scenic views.
East Bank
Located east of downtown St. Marys, this area is a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It features a variety of businesses, services, and restaurants. The East Bank neighborhood offers a diverse range of housing options, including historic homes, townhouses, and apartments.
West End
Situated west of downtown, the West End neighborhood is predominantly residential. It features a combination of older homes and newer developments. The West End offers a sense of community and is known for its tree-lined streets and parks.
New Knoxville
While technically a separate village, New Knoxville is adjacent to St. Marys and often considered part of the larger community. It has a distinct small-town feel and features a mix of residential areas and small businesses. New Knoxville is known for its strong sense of community and is home to the popular New Knoxville Historical Society Museum.
These are just a few of the notable areas in St. Marys, Ohio. Each neighborhood offers its own unique characteristics and appeals to different demographics, making the city a diverse and welcoming place to live.