What is the significance of Ohio’s Statehood Day?
March 1, 1803 is one of the most important dates in Ohio’s history. Ohio’s constitution was approved by Congress in early 1803 and signed by President Thomas Jefferson on February 19. Ohio’s first elections had been held in January and the newly-elected Ohio General Assembly took up state business for the first time in Chillicothe on March 1, 1803.
Why attend the Statehood Day event?
Ohio’s “birthday” on March 1 is a most appropriate date to convene Ohio’s history advocates and organizations to advocate and celebrate Ohio’s rich history. Anyone passionate about Ohio’s history is encouraged to attend the annual event at the Ohio Statehouse. You can also schedule an appointment to meet with your state representative and state senator that same day. You can find your elected officials on the Statehood Day website.
Who puts on the Statehood Day event?
Statehood Day is sponsored by Ohio History Connection, Heritage Ohio, the Ohio Archaeological Council, the Ohio Local History Alliance, the Ohio Travel Association, the Ohio Genealogical Society, the Ohio Museums Association, the Ohio Historical Records Advisory Board, Preservation Ohio, the Ohio Academy of History, Ohio Humanities, the Ohio Council for Social Studies and the Society of Ohio Archivists.
What is included in my registration?
When you register, you will get light coffee and pastries, view private and public collections of Ohio artifacts, time for networking and the ability to be part of something larger – the opportunity to make a meaningful difference by expressing your support for Ohio history.
How should I prepare for the event?
First, don’t forget to register online as soon as possible. There is no registration cost, but numbers help us plan for food and seating on the day of. Second, be on the lookout for e-mail announcements from the Ohio History Connection for any additional updates about the event. Most people dress for the event in business casual or professional attire, especially if meeting with a representative or elected official.
What should I know about parking and where to go when I arrive?
It is recommended you arrive as early as possible to secure parking for the event. The ideal parking option is at the Ohio Statehouse garage (which can be assessed through any of the four sides of the building (parking fee kiosks are on the Green level). Note: The garage typically fills up before 9 a.m. when the General Assembly is in session (which may be the case on March 1st). If the garage is full (signs will indicate this), there are several parking options nearby: Columbus Commons garage , the Vern Riffe Center garage, or other surface lots in the area.
The recommended entrances to the Statehouse are through either the Statehouse parking garage or the 3rd Street entrance. Please allow for extra time to go through the security check area. Once inside, make your way to the Atrium, which is the large open room that connects the historic Statehouse building with the Senate Annex. Complimentary coat racks are available.
