Ohio Iron and Coal Company
While John Campbell is typically credited as being the founder of Ironton, it was actually William D. Kelly who purchased all of the land needed and created the map that laid out the town. He was also the grandson of Luke Kelly, one of the pioneer settlers in Lawrence County.
Have questions? Contact Nicole Cox at (740) 646-4104. We hope to see you there!
COVID-19 Information: Serving our community SAFELY is our #1 priority during this difficult time. The Museum is open and operating with certain restrictions, such as occupancy limits and increased sanitization practices. We encourage you to visit wearing a mask and practicing safe social distancing. Docents are available to answer any questions you may have. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Check out some of our most popular links:
- Genealogy Records
- Ironton History
- Covered Bridges
- Historical Records, Stories, and Articles
- Old Businesses
- Iron Furnaces
- “Then and Now” Photo Project
- Marquette Cement Plant Photos
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About Lawrence County, Ohio
Lawrence County, Ohio borders the Ohio River at the Southernmost part of the state. Six architecturally interesting bridges span the Ohio River, connecting Lawrence County with various locations in both Kentucky and West Virginia. Because of these bridges, metropolitan Ashland, KY and Huntington, WV are just minutes away from virtually anywhere in the county.
Lawrence County Ohio was organized December 20, 1816, the first Court of Common Pleas was organized March 4, 1817. In 2016, Lawrence County celebrated its Bicentennial… click here to view photos of the Grand Finale event.
The first election was held April 7, 1817, with Joseph Davidson, Joel Bowen, and David Spurlock elected county commissioners. Their first meeting was held Monday afternoon, April 21, 1817, at the home of Joseph Davidson in Burlington.
Lawrence County, Ohio was named after Capt. James Lawrence, a native of Burlington, NJ and a gallant naval officer of the War of 1812.
Lawrence County was home to 23 blast furnaces and was once the world leader in pig iron production.
The county seat is Ironton, where you will find our government offices, restaurants, museum, library, splash park, civic organizations, and is home of the famous Memorial Day Parade.
Check out what’s new in Lawrence County, with the Lawrence County Guide Book.
The Lawrence County Historical Society 