Lake Erie in the 1700s
As America marks its 250th birthday, discover how 18th-century frontier expansion and colonial clashes along Lake Erie set the stage for a new nation.
July 4, 1776
The Declaration of Independence is adopted. Written primarily by Thomas Jefferson, it states that “all men are created equal” and establishes the ideals of liberty and self-governance.
Mark the Calendar: The Ohio Department of Natural Resources will be hosting a variety of events across Ohio, including A Patriotic Fourth, held in Marblehead, Ohio, on July 4 at Marblehead Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on Lake Erie. In addition to refreshments and lawn games, the Firelands Symphony Orchestra will play a free pops concert, followed by fireworks.
Giddings Park in Jefferson, Ohio, will be filled July 4th with artisan vendors, live music, theatrical performances and historical reenactments during Ashtabula County’s Fourth of July Festival . Relive the past along the Walk of Time and take part in a time capsule ceremony for future generations to discover — all followed by fireworks.
Aug. 2, 1776
Most of the delegates who embraced the Declaration of Independence sign the official document.
Mark the Calendar: Put-in-Bay will celebrate the signing on Aug. 1-2 with fireworks, reenactments, performances and family-friendly fun as part of Declaration 250.
Did You Know? Founding Father Phillip Livingston is an ancestor of Put-in-Bay resident Maggie Beckford, the former executive director of the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce.
May 25-Sept. 17, 1787
The U.S. Constitution is written at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.
July 13, 1787
The Northwest Ordinance creates the Northwest Territory, which includes the future states of Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.
July 11, 1796
Detroit becomes part of the U.S. under the Jay Treaty after British evacuation.
July 22, 1796
Cleaveland, Ohio, is founded by Moses Cleaveland of the Connecticut Land Company. Its name later loses an “a” so it can be printed on a newspaper masthead, one story goes.
Don't Miss: Cleveland artifacts, from the original map of the city to LeBron James’ championship shoes, can be found at the Cleveland History Center.
Lake Erie in the 1800s
From Oliver Hazard Perry's naval victory to the rise of bustling port cities, find out how our Great Lake helped secure and forge a stronger nation during the 19th century.
Lake Erie in the 1900s
Step into the 20th century to see how the region transformed into a massive industrial powerhouse, fueling the American war effort and driving unmatched manufacturing might.
Lake Erie in the 2000s
Explore Lake Erie’s 21st-century journey through profound national tragedies, environmental awakenings, and a triumphant era of rust-belt revitalization along its historic waterfronts.
How Lake Erie Shaped U.S. History
Step back in time for America's 250th anniversary to honor the people, places and historic moments that made Lake Erie essential to our nation's story.
