Joey Saves The Day!: Facts about Ohio

Ohio Facts

Learn facts about Ohio for kids.

Last week, we highlighted essential facts regarding... North Dakota. This week, we share facts about Ohio, including its state flag, bird, and other interesting information.

Did you know Ohio is the seventeenth state to join the United States? It achieved statehood on February 19, 1803, making it one of the earliest states to enter the union. Geographically situated in the Midwestern region of the U.S., Ohio is uniquely positioned in the heart of America, fostering a rich blend of cultural and historical influences.

Ohio is bordered by five states: to the east is Pennsylvania, to the southeast is West Virginia, to the south is Kentucky, to the west is Indiana, and to the north is Michigan. In addition to its state borders, Ohio also shares a northern boundary with Canada, specifically through Lake Erie, providing recreational opportunities and trade access.

Ohio is the thirty-fourth (34th) largest state in the United States, placing it within the medium-sized category. Despite its size, Ohio is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from rural farmland to bustling urban centers. The state is home to several major cities, including Columbus, the state capital, as well as Cleveland and Cincinnati, each contributing significantly to the state's economy and cultural scene.

Ohio has a substantial population, with approximately 11,780,017 residents, making it one of the most populous states in the country. This large population reflects the state’s vibrant communities, rich history, and strong educational institutions. It’s no surprise that Ohio plays a vital role in the fabric of American society!

Ohio famous person alert:

Did you know that Thomas Alva Edison was born in Milan, Ohio? He was a famous inventor who invented the phonograph, electric light, and many other brilliant inventions.

To learn more about Thomas Alva Edison, CLICK HERE.

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Facts about Ohio:

1. Ohio is a state rich in history and cultural significance, often celebrated for its contributions to various fields. It is famously recognized as the Birthplace of Aviation, as it is home to the Wright brothers, who conducted their pioneering flight experiments in Dayton, Ohio. Additionally, the state is known for its delicious Buckeye candy, a popular treat made from chocolate and peanut butter that mimics the appearance of the Buckeye nut, Ohio's state tree.

The Ohio River, a vital waterway, runs along the southern border of the state, providing historical significance and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Ohio has earned several affectionate nicknames that reflect its identity and heritage. The Buckeye State highlights the symbolic nature of the Buckeye tree. At the same time, "The Heart of It All" denotes Ohio's central location in the United States and its importance in the nation’s history. Moreover, Ohio is known as "The Mother of Presidents," as it has produced seven U.S. Presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant and William Howard Taft.

The official state motto, “With God, All Things Are Possible,” was adopted on October 1, 1959, and reflects the values and beliefs held by many residents. Lastly, the standard abbreviation for Ohio is OH, which is used in postal addresses and various forms of identification.

2. Columbus is the capital city of Ohio, and it officially assumed this status in 1816. As of the latest estimates, the city's population is approximately 906,529 residents, making it the largest city in the state. Columbus is known for its diverse culture, vibrant arts scene, and various educational institutions, including The Ohio State University, one of the largest universities in the United States. The city plays a significant role in the state's economy and is recognized for its commitment to innovation and growth.

3. The state bird of Ohio is the Cardinal, officially declared in 1933. This vibrant bird is well-known for its striking appearance and cheerful song. The male Cardinal is particularly eye-catching, displaying a brilliant red plumage that makes it stand out against the natural landscape. Its feathers are complemented by black markings around the beak and on the wings, adding to its distinctiveness.

In contrast, the female Cardinal showcases a more subdued beauty. She is light brown-grey with subtle red tinges on her wings, head, and tail, which allows her to blend more easily into her environment, especially during nesting season.

Both male and female Cardinals possess a stout, orange-red beak perfectly adapted for cracking seeds, their primary food source. Their presence brings a splash of color to Ohio's woods, gardens, and parks, making them a beloved state symbol.

4. The official state flower of Ohio is the carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus). This perennial plant is celebrated for its vibrant and diverse colors, which include shades of pink, red, white, and yellow. Carnations typically begin their blooming period in spring, often peaking during the summer months when they are most abundant.

Renowned for their ruffled, delicate petals and sweet, clove-like fragrances, carnations are popular in gardens and widely used in floral arrangements and decorations.

The designation of the carnation as Ohio's official state flower was formalized in 1904, reflecting the flower's significance and popularity within the state. This colorful bloom not only represents Ohio’s beauty but also symbolizes love and fascination, making it a cherished emblem for its residents.

5. Ohio's current state flag was officially adopted on May 9, 1902. It is distinctive in its design, featuring a vibrant red, white, and blue color scheme that reflects the spirit and history of the state. The flag has a unique triangular shape on the left side, emblematic of the state's rolling hills and landscape. Inside the triangle are 13 white stars arranged in a circular pattern, representing the original 13 colonies, alongside a blue circular emblem that contains a red disc, symbolizing Ohio's agricultural heritage and its sun-kissed fields.

Additionally, the flag includes horizontal stripes that alternate in red and white, signifying the contributions of the various regions of Ohio. Remarkably, Ohio is the only state in the United States with a nonrectangular flag, making it a truly unique symbol of state pride and identity.

6. Ohio grows various crops, including apples, corn, grapes, peaches, potatoes, strawberries, soybeans, and watermelon.

7. Ohio offers a variety of exciting attractions for visitors. One of the most famous is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. This iconic museum celebrates the history and impact of rock music, featuring exhibits on legendary artists, interactive displays, and an extensive collection of memorabilia.

For thrill-seekers, Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky is a must-visit. Known as the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World," Cedar Point boasts an impressive lineup of roller coasters and ride attractions, as well as beautiful views of Lake Erie, making it a perfect day out for families and adrenaline junkies alike.

Another highlight is the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, one of the oldest zoos in the United States. This award-winning facility is home to various animals and plants, allowing visitors to see everything from exotic wildlife to stunning floral displays. The zoo also emphasizes conservation efforts and provides educational experiences for all ages.

These attractions showcase just a few of the diverse experiences that Ohio has to offer.

8. Ohio is inhabited by a diverse range of wildlife. Among these are bats, which help control insect populations, and coyotes, known for their adaptability and hunting skills. Groundhogs, also called woodchucks, are common in the area and are often seen foraging for food in gardens and fields. Skunks, recognizable by their distinctive black-and-white coloring, are known for their potent defense mechanism. At the same time, white-tailed deer can often be spotted grazing in fields and wooded areas, especially at dawn and dusk. Together, these animals contribute to Ohio's rich ecosystem.

9. Ohio can get very hot and cold depending on the time of year. The hottest temperature recorded in Ohio was 113 degrees Fahrenheit in Gallipolis, Ohio, on July 21, 1934. The coldest temperature recorded in Ohio was -39 degrees (39 degrees below zero) Fahrenheit in Milligan, Ohio, on February 10, 1899.