Learn About Piketon, Ohio
Piketon Overview
City History
Piketon is a small village located in Pike County, Ohio. It was founded in 1815 and named after General Zebulon Pike, an American military officer and explorer. The village was originally a center for agriculture and trade, but it later became known for its uranium enrichment plant during the Cold War.
Interesting Facts
- Piketon is home to the Piketon High School Redstreaks, known for their successful football program.
- The village is located near the Scioto River and has a rich history of Native American settlement.
- Piketon was once a stop on the historic Ohio and Erie Canal.
Interesting People
- William Cooper, a renowned author and political theorist, was born in Piketon in 1798.
- Country music singer Bobby Bare also hails from Piketon.
Top Attractions in Piketon
- The Pike County Fairgrounds hosts events throughout the year, including the annual Pike County Fair.
- The Pike County Dogwood Festival celebrates the blooming of the dogwood trees in the area.
Top Attractions Nearby
- Serpent Mound, a prehistoric effigy mound, is located just a short drive from Piketon.
- Shawnee State Park offers hiking, camping, and boating opportunities in a scenic setting.
Population History
- Piketon's population has fluctuated over the years, with a peak population of around 2,500 in the 1950s. As of the 2010 census, the population was around 2,200.
Geography
- Piketon is located in the southeastern part of Ohio, near the border with Kentucky and West Virginia. The village is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland.
Economy
- Piketon's economy is largely based on agriculture and small businesses. The closure of the uranium enrichment plant in the 2000s had a significant impact on the local economy.
Culture
- Piketon has a strong sense of community, with residents coming together for events like the annual Dogwood Festival and high school football games.
- The village has a rich history of Appalachian culture, with traditional music and crafts still being practiced in the area.
Notable Landmarks
- The Piketon Uranium Enrichment Plant, which operated from the 1950s to the 2000s, is a notable landmark in the area.
- The Pike County Courthouse, built in 1864, is a historic building that still serves as the seat of government for Pike County.