Military History

Vintage photograph of a group of uniformed men posing with military equipment and horses.Explore the military history of Lawrence County, Ohio, through historical records, newspaper accounts, photographs, and stories of the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces.

From the Civil War to more recent conflicts, Lawrence County residents have a long tradition of military service. The county’s location along the Ohio River also connected its military history with neighboring communities in West Virginia and Kentucky.

That tradition of remembrance continues through Ironton’s historic Memorial Day Parade and the observance of Decoration Day. Learn more about the origins of these traditions in our article on the History of Memorial Day.

Browse the military records, personal accounts, photographs, and historical documents below to discover the experiences of Lawrence County residents who served their country.

Search Military Archives

Explore Military Archives

Major McMahon Civil War Veteran

The Raid of the One HundredNarrow Escape #8Ironton Register 6 Jan. 1887 Submitted by Shirley Reed “Hello, Major McMahon, you are the person I want…

Colonel Weddle Civil War Veteran

Col. Weddle War ExperienceNarrow Escape #5Ironton Register 16 Dec. 1886 Submitted by Peggy Wells “Here, Col. Weddle, I’ve caught you at last,” said…

Charles Shelton Civil War Veteran

Charles Shelton Civil War Veteran

Charles Shelton War ExperiencesNarrow Escape #4Ironton Register 9 Dec. 1886 Submitted by Peggy Wells “So you were in the 2nd Va. Cavalry?” we asked…

A.D. Crossland Civil War Veteran

A.D. Crossland Civil War Veteran

Gen. Enochs and A.D. Crossland War ExperiencesNarrow Escape #3Ironton Register 2 Dec. 1886 Submitted by Peggy Wells “I suppose you have observed…

Ben Butterfield Civil War Veteran

Ben Butterfield Civil War Veteran

Ben Butterfield War ExperienceNarrow Escapes # 7  Ironton Register 30 Dec.1886                   Submitted by Shirley Reed “You were in the…