Licking County History
Explore our extensive collection of local history at the Downtown Newark location. Browse through 500+ vertical files, yearbooks, veteran history, family histories, maps, newspaper clippings and microfilm. If you are looking for specific information, just send us an email at info@lickingcountylibrary.org.
Local History
Explore fascinating tidbits of history from our local townships and neighborhoods, peruse vintage postcard images showcasing the heritage of Licking County, delve into the stories of businesses that once flourished here, and much more with the newly launched local history database by the Licking County Library. We've consolidated all our local historical knowledge into one accessible platform on the Library's website. Begin your immersive journey now by clicking here!
Additional resources can be found at these sites too:
Group Programming
We offer a variety of tours conducted both in-person and independently.
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GPS-Guided Tours: We created FREE self-guided tours that are available to download on your phone. The tours are curated, with the Licking County community in mind, to showcase some of the important, unique and historical points of interest of our county. Our goal is to provide you with an authentic experience that gives you confidence and direction to explore and discover the places around you while learning about local history and culture.
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Our Local History Coordinator is eager to guide you or your group on a tour. Call 740.349.5571 or email info@lickingcountylibrary.org to learn more about options.
Additional Resources
- Great Buckeye Lake Historical Society was founded in 1995 and opened a museum for its community in 1998. Thier goal is to preserve the historical record of the Lake, including the Amusement Park, the Ohio Canal, the Interurban, the National Trail, the early pioneers and early boaters. The museum houses a large collection of Buckeye Lake Park memorabilia.
- Licking Valley Heritage Society is non-profit organization situated in Hanover. First started in 2005, their mission is to preserve, embrace and share the heritage of the Greater Licking Valley Area. Their vision is to display artifacts, antiques, photographs and literature in order to educate children and keep its history alive.
- Johnstown Historical Society is a non-profit organization that supports, encourages and provides historical education and preservation for the Johnstown community. They are committed to researching the history of Johnstown, and collecting, preserving and exhibiting objects and documents from the past. Licking County Library's Johnstown (Mary E. Babcock) location houses many historic artifacts, a glimpse into pictorial history with an interactive touch-screen of photos and vintage postcards as well as a watercolor gallery of pieces created by Ohio artist Robert Brubaker.
- Licking County Genealogical Society is housed at Licking County Library's Downtown Newark location. They offer a plethora of information including family history, marriage, birth and death records. For additional information, email them directly at lcgs@lickingcountylibrary.org. (This office will be closed to public from June 17 through June 30 for upper-level Library carpet installation.)
- Licking County Historical Society is a source for historical research for Licking County, having a comprehensive research library available to the community.
- Ohio History Connection is a statewide history organization with the mission to spark discovery of Ohio’s stories. They carry out history services for Ohio and its citizens focused on preserving and sharing the state’s history. This includes housing the State Historic Preservation Office, the official state archives and the Community Engagement Department and managing more than 50 sites and museums across Ohio.