New Ohio Historical Marker Unveiled In Findlay

There’s a new Ohio Historical Marker in Findlay.

The Hancock Historical Museum, the Ohio History Connection, the Findlay-Hancock County Alliance, America 250-Ohio, and the Hancock County Commissioners’ Office unveiled the new historical marker honoring journalist and satirist David Ross Locke and his nationally influential Nasby Letters.

The historical marker is located outside the Hancock County Courthouse.

According to the Hancock Historical Museum, Locke, best known by his pen name “Petroleum V. Nasby,” became popular during the Civil War through a series of satirical letters written from the perspective of a fictional Copperhead character. First published in 1861 while Locke served as editor and owner of the Findlay Jeffersonian, the Nasby Letters mocked pro-Confederate sentiment, strengthened Union morale, and became admired by readers across the country — including President Abraham Lincoln, who called them essential reading during difficult times.

The new Ohio Historical Marker recognizes Hancock County’s important connection to one of America’s earliest and most influential political humorists, and commemorates Locke’s lasting impact on journalism, satire, and Civil War-era political discourse, as well as the role of the Findlay Jeffersonian in sharing his voice nationally.

The historical marker was funded and supported by the Barbara & Edwin Heminger Memorial Fund.

Hancock County now has 21 Ohio Historical Markers.