Chillicothe, County seat in Ross County, Ohio, United States
Chillicothe sits along the Scioto River in southern Ohio, spreading across gentle hills and flat bottomland. Downtown streets hold brick buildings from the 19th century, while residential neighborhoods and parks fill the areas near the floodplain.
General Nathaniel Massie founded the settlement in 1796 as a military outpost along the river. It became the capital of Ohio in 1803 and held that role until 1816, when Columbus took over.
The Majestic Theatre draws visitors to performances and concerts in a venue where wood paneling and balconies recall late 19th-century design. Locals gather here for shows that keep the downtown area active in the evenings.
Yoctangee Park offers lawns and paths near the riverbank, where a paved bike trail links the town to surrounding routes. Many visitors start at the floodwall and follow the trail north or south.
The name comes from the Shawnee word Chala·ka·tha, marking a principal settlement. Places with the same name appeared at several locations across the region before European settlers established the current town.
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