Reservoir war facts for kids

The Reservoir War was a small disagreement in Paulding County, Ohio, United States in 1887. It happened when local people decided to take matters into their own hands to get rid of a troublesome reservoir.

Why the Reservoir War Started

The Six Mile Reservoir's Purpose

Just east of Antwerp, Ohio was a large body of water called the Six Mile Reservoir. It was about 2,000 acres (or 8 square kilometers) in size. This reservoir was built in 1840 by blocking a creek with a dam and dikes. Its main job was to supply water for the Wabash and Erie Canal.

Canals and Their Decline

The Wabash Canal was finished in 1843, and another one, the Miami and Erie Canal, in 1845. However, these canals were only used for about ten years before they started to close down. The last boat on the Wabash Canal made its final trip in 1874. Other parts of the canal had already closed years before.

A Problem for Locals

For twenty years, the reservoir caused many problems for people living nearby. It became a perfect place for mosquitoes to breed. These mosquitoes spread a sickness called "ague," which we now know as malaria. The old reservoir also smelled bad and caused issues for local farms. People tried to get the State of Ohio to close the reservoir, but a bill to do so did not pass.

The Conflict Unfolds

First Attempt to Drain the Reservoir

One night in March 1887, some local residents tried to cut the dike and drain the reservoir. It was cold and wet work, so they could not finish the job. The governor of Ohio, Joseph B. Foraker, told the people to stop. He sent General Axline and some soldiers, called the militia, to protect the state's property and keep the peace. But when the soldiers arrived, no one was there. Most people in the county wanted the reservoir drained, so investigators could not find out who had damaged it.

The Main Attack

On the night of April 25, 1887, a large group of 200 to 400 men from the county went to the lower end of the reservoir. They captured the guard who was there, but they were kind to him and helped with his minor injuries. No one else was hurt or shot. The group used dynamite to blow up two locks. They then spent the entire night cutting the dikes with picks and spades. Even though this did not completely drain the reservoir, it was badly damaged and could not be used anymore. After this, the state decided to give up on the reservoir and the canal.

What Happened Next

A Lasting Motto

The group of men who attacked the reservoir wall carried a flag. It had a strong message on it: "No Compromise!" This motto is still used by Paulding County, Ohio today.

Remembering the Event

In 2021, a special historical marker was put up at the site. This marker helps people remember the Reservoir War and its importance in the history of Paulding County.