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Ironton, OH

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Ironton, OH

Ironton is a city in and the county seat of Lawrence County, Ohio, United States. The population was 10,571 at the 2020 census. Located in southernmost Ohio along the Ohio River, it is 20 miles (32 km) northwest of Huntington, West Virginia, within the Huntington–Ashland metropolitan area. The city's name is a contraction of "iron town", stemming from its long ties to the iron industry. It also had one of the first professional football teams, the Ironton Tanks.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 4.46 square miles (11.55 km²), of which 4.16 square miles (10.77 km²) is land and 0.30 square miles (0.78 km²) is water.

Ironton was founded in 1849 by John Campbell, a prominent pig iron manufacturer in the area. He chose the location of Ironton because of its site along the Ohio River, which would allow for water transport of iron ore to markets downriver. Between 1850 and 1890, Ironton was one of the foremost producers of iron in the world. England, France, and Russia all purchased iron for warships from here due to the quality. Iron produced here was used for the USS Monitor, the United States' first ironclad ship. More than ninety furnaces were operating at the peak of production in the late 19th century.

The iron industry generated revenues that were invested in new industries, such as soap and nail production. The Detroit, Toledo, and Ironton Railroad was constructed through two states, carrying iron to Henry Ford's automaking plants in Michigan. The city had a street railway, the Ironton Petersburg Street Railway, four daily newspapers, and a few foreign-language publications. Ironton was also known for its accommodating attitude toward sin and vice associated with the mine and ironworkers.

With its location on the Ohio River, Ironton became a destination on the Underground Railroad for refugee slaves seeking freedom in the North. John Campbell and some other city leaders sheltered slaves in their homes during their journeys. During the American Civil War, local military regiments were mustered, quartered, and trained at Camp Ironton, a military post located at the county fairgrounds.

Health and wellness are significant aspects of life in Ironton. The King's Daughters Medical Center is a leading healthcare provider in the region, offering a wide range of medical services to residents. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Ironton Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Preferred Fitness, Jazzercise, and Fit Faith. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Ironton, such as the Wellston Bike Path and Gallia County Hike & Bike Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Ironton, OH are Lawrence County Museum of History, Oakley Clark Collins Memorial Bridge, and McConnell House.

Population: 10,290 (2022). ZIP code: 45638. Area code: 740. Elevation: 558 ft (170 m). Area: 4.75 sq mi (12.31 km²).

FAQs

What is Ironton, OH famous for?

Ironton takes pride in its patriotism and is home to the longest continuously running Memorial Day Parade in the United States. Since 1868, tens of thousands of people have lined the streets to watch this tradition of memorializing the fallen. The parade serves as a testament to the city's deep-rooted patriotism and commitment to honoring those who have served their country.

What is the poverty rate in Ironton, OH?

In 2022, the median household income of Ironton households was $43,702. Ironton households made slightly more than Masury households ($43,688) and Blanchester households ($43,611) . However, 21.7% of Ironton families live in poverty.

Is Ironton, OH expensive?

Ironton, Ohio's cost of living is 17% lower than the national average. Ironton's housing expenses are 45% lower than the national average and the utility prices are 14% lower than the national average. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 13% lower than the national average.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Ironton

King's Daughters Medical Center 

Ironton Parks and Recreation Department

Preferred Fitness

Jazzercise 

Fit Faith

Wellston Bike Path 

Gallia County Hike & Bike Trail

Lawrence County Museum of History

Oakley Clark Collins Memorial Bridge

McConnell House

Ging46

Ohio Demographics

Payscale

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