Belmont County Road Bond of Ohio - 1868 or 1869 dated $50 or $500 Bond

$50 or $500 7% Bond printed by A.W. Paull & Co. Wheeling. 5 or 25 cents revenue stamp on each. At least 1 coupon attached at right of bond.

Belmont County holds a significant place in American history as the location where construction officially commenced on the National Road in Ohio. On July 4, 1825, a groundbreaking ceremony was held in downtown St. Clairsville, near the courthouse, signifying the westward expansion of what was the first federally funded highway in the United States. This historic thoroughfare, originally commissioned by Congress in 1806 and affectionately known as “The Main Street of America,” stretched 28.5 miles across the county, connecting Bridgeport on the Ohio River to Fairview at the western border.

The enduring legacy of this pioneering road is evident in the architectural landmarks and the path of modern infrastructure that still grace the county. One of the most iconic remnants is the Blaine Hill “S” Bridge, constructed in 1828, which stands as the oldest sandstone bridge in the state. Over the years, the original route underwent transformations to accommodate the demands of the automobile era, eventually becoming part of U.S. Route 40 and later paralleling the development of Interstate 70. Today, travelers can embark on a journey through these “three generations of transportation” while visiting historic “Pike Towns” like Morristown. These towns preserve the county’s role as a vital gateway to the West, showcasing 19th-century architecture and original brick road segments that offer a glimpse into the past.