Portsmouth

Portsmouth is an administrative seat in southern Ohio located where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River. The terrain follows the northern shore and forms a compact town center surrounded by low hills.

The founding took place in 1803 and was tied from the start to river navigation on the Ohio. During the 19th century the place grew into a hub for trade and transport between the banks.

The name comes from English and literally means harbor mouth, pointing to where the Scioto meets the Ohio. Today you see this heritage in street names and in the way the town center opens toward the river.

A walk along the riverfront provides orientation because the Ohio forms the southern city boundary and most streets follow it. The main traffic routes run parallel or perpendicular to the shore, which makes navigation simple.

The large floodwall protects the entire town from high water and runs for several kilometers along the shoreline. In good weather the top of the wall is used by walkers and cyclists as a continuous panorama path.

Location: Scioto County

Inception: 1803

Elevation above the sea: 162 m

Website: http://portsmouthoh.org

GPS coordinates: 38.74306,-82.96556

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:16