Sardinia Ohio

Sardinia, Ohio, is a small village located in Brown and Highland counties. Established in 1833, the village has a rich history tied to abolitionism, the Underground Railroad, and the Temperance Movement. Its name is derived from a Methodist hymnal that was popular during the 1840s.

A History of Sardinia, Ohio

Founding and Early History

Sardinia was laid out in 1833, though Washington Township, where it is primarily located, was established earlier in 1830. The village is situated on the east fork of White Oak Creek, approximately 12 miles northeast of Georgetown and 44 miles east of Cincinnati. In its early years, Sardinia served as a post village and later became a station on the Cincinnati & Eastern Railroad (now the Cincinnati Eastern Railroad).

In 1860, Sardinia had a population of about 200 people, while Washington Township boasted a population of 1,300. Over time, the village grew steadily, reaching a population of 1,083 by the 2020 census.

Role in Abolitionism and the Underground Railroad

Sardinia played a significant role in the Underground Railroad during the Civil War era. The James B. Mahan Tavern, also known at the "Temperance Tavern" due to it also being part of the temperace movement strong in the area including Hillsboro. In Sardinia Mahan's tavern became one of the stops for enslaved individuals seeking freedom. This connection to abolitionism was largely due to Reverend John Bennington Mahan, an important figure in Sardinia's history.

Reverend John Bennington Mahan
Rev. John B. Mahan was born on April 6, 1801, in Kentucky and later settled in Sardinia. He was deeply involved in anti-slavery activism and became one of the founders of the Ohio Anti-Slavery Society. Mahan worked closely with prominent abolitionists like Levi Coffin and Rev. John Rankin to organize Underground Railroad activities.

Mahan's tavern operated on temperance principles—no alcohol was served—and also served as a hub for abolitionist activity. His dedication to helping enslaved individuals escape led to legal troubles. In 1838, he was arrested and tried in Mason County, Kentucky, for assisting runaway slaves. Though acquitted initially, he later faced fines and imprisonment for his actions. The harsh conditions he endured during his imprisonment contributed to his declining health; he contracted tuberculosis and died on December 15, 1844.

Mahan's tombstone bears the inscription "A victim to the slave power," commemorating his sacrifices for the abolitionist cause. He is also honored on a monument in Ripley, Ohio.

Schroeder Law opens in Sardinia

Jim Schroeder purchased Mahan's tavern in 2019 and moved the Schroeder Law Group to Sardinia. To anyone's knowledge this was Sardinia's first attorney or lawyer to have an office in the Village. Along with being Sardinia's attorney, Schroeder Law serviced clients from nearby Lake Waynoka, Georgetown, Mount Orab, Winchester, Russelville, Ripley, Seaman and surrounding Adams County, Highland County and of course Brown County. The office became a central location for people to stop in, share news and collaborate on ways to improve Sardinia. This would become the launch point for the next chapter of Mahan's tavern as Schroeder Law would move to Hillsboro in 2024 in anticipation of what would come next.

Modern-Day Sardinia: The Underground Café

Sardinia's downtown area had fallen on hard times through the early 2000's but has shown signs of revival in recent years. One notable modern establishment in Sardinia is The Underground Café, located at 101 Winchester Street. This café carries forward some of Sardinia’s historical legacy by invoking its connection to the Underground Railroad in its name. While specific details about its operations are limited, it serves as a reminder of Sardinia’s rich historical ties to abolitionism. More suited for a cafe than a law office, the building again hosts people who care about their community and neighbors and are willing to do the work of blessing their community.

Sardinia’s history reflects its deep roots in social reform movements such as abolitionism and temperance. Figures like Rev. John B. Mahan played crucial roles in shaping its identity as a stronghold for justice and equality during tumultuous times. Today, establishments like The Underground Café continue to honor this legacy while serving as community hubs for residents and visitors alike.

Education and Community Services

Sardinia is served by Eastern High School and has a public library that is part of the Brown County Public Library system. The Sardinia Historical Society and other community meetings are held regularly at Sardinia Hope Church.