238th Anniversary of the Northwest Territory Ordinance of 1787 Celebration
Muskingum Park, Marietta, Washington County, Ohio
“Honoring the Birth of Education in America"

The 238th Anniversary of the Ordinance of 1787 Celebration Committee wishes to invite the public to our free program at 10:30am, Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at the Start Westward Monument in East Muskingum Park, 319 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio, 45750.

Paul LaRue, President of the Ohio State Board of Education & Retired Teacher, will delve into the profound impact of Article #3 of the Northwest Ordinance and its lasting legacy on public education in America.

The Land Ordinance of 1785 provided the land, and the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 provided the framework and encouragement for the establishment of education in the Northwest Territory, with Marietta and the Ohio Company playing a vital role in the practical implementation of this policy. These ordinances are the first instances of Congress providing support to education in the United States of America!

It's fascinating to consider that these foundational steps towards promoting education were taken before the Constitution and Bill of Rights were established. The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 was passed unanimously by the Congress of the Confederation, July 13, 1787!!!

Join us on July 9th to commemorate this pivotal moment in American history!

Note: From 10-10:30am - Guests are invited to join in at the monument with music and refreshments! At the First Congregational Church, the “Church of the Pioneers” bell ringing of the carillon will be performed with various patriotic tunes. Guests are invited to climb the steps into the bell tower to watch as Sean Lofty operates the wooden levers to engage the chimes.

Note: This is an outdoor event under the temporary protective shelter covering the monument, in case of rain, the First Congregational Church at 318 Front Street, Marietta, OH 45750 (For additional program information, contact jean.yost@gmail.com or 740-336-8060)