Description: These postcards show a recreation of the pioneer landing that originally took place at the confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio rivers on April 7, 1788, in present-day Marietta. The 1938 celebrations included the re-enactment as well as a parade, all celebrating the 150-year anniversary of the arrival of 48 settlers by way of flatboat from New England. Under the Ordinance of 1787 and led by General Rufus Putnam, the Ohio Company of Associates settlers established Marietta as the first organized American community in the Northwest Territory. Many of the settlers were former officers of the Revolutionary War, who had been paid for their service with warrants for land by the fledgling United States government as a result of the scarcity of cash after the war. By the end of 1788, approximately 137 people inhabited the area, presided over by Governor Arthur St. Clair. The six postcards measure approximately 5.5 by 3.5 inches (13.97 by 8.89 cm). Located within the Marietta settlement, Campus Martius was a fort that served as a home for some of the pioneers and provided protection against attacks from Native Americans. It was named for the ancient Field of Mars, where the Roman military trained. The present-day Campus Martius Museum became a part of the Ohio Historical Society in 1918, focusing on the subject of migration in Ohio's history. The restored home of Rufus Putnam, which was a part of the original fort, was later enclosed within a wing of the museum. The Ohio Company's Land Office is located behind the museum. View on Ohio Memory.
Image ID: Om3389_5759486_001
Subjects: Ohio Government; Anniversaries; Celebrations; Floats (Parades); Forts & fortifications; Campus Martius (Marietta, Ohio); Land Grants; Muskingum River (Ohio); Ohio River; Parades & processions
Places: Marietta (Ohio); Washington County (Ohio)