John McIntire (pioneer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John McIntire
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| Born | October 15, 1759 Alexandria, Virginia |
| Died | July 29, 1815 (aged 55) Zanesville, Ohio |
| Resting place | Pioneer Hill Cemetery, Zanesville |
John McIntire (born October 15, 1759 – died July 29, 1815) was the person who started the city of Zanesville, Ohio. He was born in Alexandria, Virginia.
In December 1789, John McIntire married Sarah Zane. Her father was Colonel Ebenezer Zane. In 1797, McIntire founded Zanesville on land that Colonel Zane had given him.
An interesting story says that in 1802, Louis Philippe, who later became the King of France, stayed with the McIntires. He was living away from France at the time. He was very impressed by John and his family.
United States Ambassador to France Lewis Cass wrote a book in 1840. He mentioned King Louis Philippe's travels through the Northwest United States. Cass wrote that the King found a comfortable home with Mr. McIntire in Zanesville. He said McIntire's house was a favorite stop for many travelers back then. Cass also called John McIntire an "uneducated, but truly worthy and respectable man."
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Who Were John McIntire's Parents?
We don't know much for sure about John McIntire's family before he came to Muskingum County, Ohio. A family history written in 1902 by Isaac McIntire said that John's parents were John McIntire from Scotland, Ireland, and Charlotte Hedge, an English woman. However, this information has not been officially proven.
John McIntire's Role in Ohio Politics
In 1802, Zanesville was part of Washington County. John McIntire was chosen as one of four representatives from Washington County. He joined Ephraim Cutler, Benjamin Ives Gilman, and Rufus Putnam.
They all went to the first Constitutional Convention of Ohio. This important meeting took place from November 1 to November 29, 1802. At this convention, they created the rules and laws for the new state of Ohio.
What Does John McIntire's Gravestone Say?
When John McIntire passed away, a special message was carved onto his gravestone. This message tells us about his life and what people thought of him.
The words on his gravestone say: "Sacred to the memory of John McIntire, who departed this life July 29, 1815 aged 56 years. He was born at Alexandria, VA, laid out the town of Zanesville in 1800, of which he was the patron and father. He was a member of the convention which formed the constitution of Ohio. A kind husband, an obliging neighbor, punctual in his engagements, of liberal mind and benevolent disposition, his death was sincerely lamented."
This means he was remembered as a kind husband and a good neighbor. He was also known for keeping his promises and having a generous spirit.
Places Named After John McIntire
John McIntire's legacy lives on in the town he helped create. Several places in and around Zanesville are named in his honor. These include:
- John McIntire Library
- John McIntire Elementary School
- McIntire Avenue
