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Our Township History

Established 1836 • Lucas County, Ohio

A Legacy of Service

The township form of government is the oldest form of government in the United States. Our Pilgrim Fathers brought this structure to America in 1620. As the Ohio Territory became populated, the Township form became the basic unit of government. By 1804, the elected officials consisted of three Trustees, a Clerk, Overseers of the poor, Supervisors of highways, and a Justice of the Peace. That basic structure exists today.

The present Township of Swanton bore the name of Wing Township from 1836 until 1851, named after Chandler L. Wing, the area's first white settler. The first election under the name "Swanton Township" was held on April 7th, 1851.

Township Milestones

First Frame House (1837)

Dwelling and store of Luther Dodge, located on the East bank of Swan Creek.

First Road (1835)

Known as the State Road, running from Maumee to Swanton and the State line.

First Bridge (1836-37)

Built across Swan Creek on the State Road by Samuel Barrett during the winter.

First Tavern (1834)

Kept by Huntington Larabee, serving "movers" (emigrants) traveling West.

First Orchard (1835)

A small fruit-growing effort set out by P.B. Scott in the spring.

First Town Plat (1836)

Laid out at Scott's Corners by James Jackson and James H. Forsyth.

Chief Ottokee & The Ottawa

In the summer of 1837, Chief Ottokee of the Ottawa Indians lived on Section 5. He owned the land and occupied a house built in 1835. The Indians hunted and traded venison for vegetables with the local settlers. When the rest of his tribe was moved West, Chief Ottokee refused to go. He remained and later died here in Swanton Township.

Early Wildlife

Deer, wolves, cougars, and occasional bears were abundant. Large numbers of elk and moose horns were also found across the township.

A Central Hub

Originally, Swanton was the most central point in Lucas County, making it the usual place for holding political conventions until Fulton County was formed.

Early Industry