Hillsboro Ohio

A History of Hillsboro, Ohio

 

Founding and Early Development

Hillsboro was founded just four years after Ohio achieved statehood in 1803. It was specifically chosen as the county seat of Highland County due to its central location on elevated terrain, which inspired its name. The land for the town was donated by Benjamin Ellicott of Baltimore, who gave 100 acres to the county and sold additional land at $2 per acre. The original town plat covered 200 acres and featured wide streets and alleys—a layout that continues to define the city today.

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Before Hillsboro’s establishment, New Market served as the county seat. However, disputes over courthouse construction and funding led to Hillsboro securing this role. By 1813, formal boundaries for Highland County were established by the state legislature, cementing Hillsboro’s status as a civic center.

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19th-Century Growth

Hillsboro experienced rapid growth during the 19th century. By 1840, its population had reached 868 residents. The town quickly became a hub for commerce and education, boasting three churches, two newspaper offices, fourteen stores, and schools for both men and women by the mid-1840s. The Hillsborough Academy, founded in 1827, became a prominent educational institution with a focus on classical and mathematical studies

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The arrival of two railroad lines further accelerated Hillsboro’s growth in the mid-19th century. These railroads transformed the town into a center for agricultural trade and industrial activity. Local manufacturing thrived, producing goods such as flour, carriages, and lumber. J.M. Boyd & Company became the largest employer in town during this period.

 

Civic Movements: The Temperance Crusade

Hillsboro played a significant role in social reform movements of the late 19th century. In 1873, Eliza Jane Thompson led one of the earliest temperance crusades in the United States from Hillsboro. This movement later inspired the founding of the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), which became instrumental in achieving Prohibition and advancing women’s suffrage nationally. The legacy of this movement remains visible today; few liquor establishments operate within Hillsboro’s city limits.

 

Industrial Achievements: The Bell Foundry

One of Hillsboro’s most notable industrial contributions came from Charles Bell’s foundry, established in 1875. Bell manufactured steel alloy bells that were renowned for their durability and mellow tone. By 1890, his factory was producing over 20,000 bells annually for farms, schools, and churches worldwide. During World War II, the foundry supplied bells to Allied naval forces[3]. This legacy is celebrated annually at Hillsboro’s Festival of the Bells, held each July since 1976.

 

20th-Century Developments

By 1880, Hillsboro had grown to a population of over 3,200 residents—approximately one-third of whom were children. The city continued to thrive as an agricultural and industrial hub throughout the early 20th century. However, like many small towns across America, it faced challenges related to economic shifts and urbanization.

Despite these challenges, Hillsboro maintained its cultural vibrancy through community events and institutions. The city became known for its educational opportunities with institutions like Southern State Community College establishing a campus there.

 

Modern Revitalization

In recent decades, Hillsboro has focused on balancing growth with preserving its historical character. Strategic infrastructure projects have revitalized key areas of the city while maintaining its small-town feel. For instance, Crossroads Park—a $5 million project—has added amenities such as an amphitheater and walking trails to enhance community life.

The city has also invested in residential development through projects like the Roberts Lane Extension. This initiative has spurred private housing developments aimed at meeting modern needs while attracting new residents.

Economic development remains a priority for Hillsboro’s leadership. Its location at the crossroads of major routes like U.S. 50 and U.S. 62 positions it as an accessible destination for businesses and commuters alike[5][8].

 

Community Life Today

Hillsboro continues to celebrate its heritage through festivals such as the Festival of the Bells and other civic events organized by groups like the Hillsboro Uptown Business Association (HUBA). The historic uptown area features shops housed in buildings with tin ceilings dating back to 1895—a testament to the city’s enduring charm.

The community also benefits from modern amenities such as fiber-optic internet installations planned for every home by 2025—a reflection of Hillsboro’s commitment to staying connected in an increasingly digital world.

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From its founding in 1807 to its present-day revitalization efforts, Hillsboro embodies a blend of historical significance and forward-thinking development. Its role as a center for education, industry, and civic engagement has shaped both its past and future. Whether through its contributions to social reform or its thriving local economy, Hillsboro stands as a proud example of small-town America where history meets progress.

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Like any county seat, Hillsboro Ohio has always had a handful of attorneys that served the community.  Hillsboro Ohio lawyers have gone on to become judges and handle high profile cases.  One of the earliest Hillsboro Ohio attorneys was William Scott.  You can read more about him and his career as a Hillsboro attorney here - Scott House.  Today Jim Schroeder and the team at the Schroeder Law Group continue the tradition of being great attorneys serving Hillsboro Ohio, Highland County and the surrounding counties.  Schroeder Law is proud to provide legal advice in the tradition of the decades of attorneys who have come before in Hillsboro.