Built from the Ground Beneath Us: Southeast Ohio’s Brick-Making History
When people think about Southeast Ohio’s industrial past, coal mining and iron production often come to mind first. But another industry helped shape the region’s communities—literally—one brick at a time.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Southeast Ohio became an important center for brick and paving-block production. Rich deposits of clay and shale, abundant coal for firing kilns, and expanding railroad service created ideal conditions for the industry to grow.
The Rise of the Hocking Valley Brick Industry
Nelsonville became one of the best-known brick-making communities in the Hocking Valley. The completion of the Columbus and Hocking Valley Railroad in 1869 helped manufacturers transport their products far beyond Southeast Ohio. The region’s deposits of coal, clay and iron ore also attracted workers and encouraged industrial development. Advisory Council on Historic Preservation
The Nelsonville Brick Company began operating during the 1870s and produced several recognizable paving products, including the Nelsonville Block, Hocking Block and decorative Star Brick.
Nelsonville’s salt-glazed paving blocks were especially valued. Salt introduced during firing created a hard, watertight and distinctive glazed surface. According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, many Nelsonville pavers were manufactured from Lower Kittanning fireclay. Decorative sidewalk bricks featured stars, flowers, circles and other patterns. Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Athens Had Its Own Brick-Making Story
Brick production was not limited to Nelsonville. The Athens Brick Company manufactured millions of bricks from 1892 until approximately 1920. Historic photographs preserved through Ohio Memory show the factory in operation and offer a glimpse into what was once an important local employer. Ohio Memory
Factories across the Hocking Valley produced building brick, street pavers, sidewalk blocks, sewer tile and other clay products. Railroads carried these materials throughout Ohio and into communities across the country.
Today, Southeast Ohio bricks can still be found in historic streets, sidewalks, commercial buildings, foundations and homes. In Nelsonville, the familiar Star Brick remains one of the most visible symbols of the community’s industrial heritage.
A History You Can Still Walk On
Unlike many industries whose physical evidence has disappeared, the region’s brick-making legacy remains underfoot.
Visitors to Nelsonville’s historic district can still see locally manufactured brick incorporated into sidewalks and public spaces. Brick Kiln Park preserves remnants of the former Nelsonville Brick Company, including kilns and smokestacks. These structures help illustrate the enormous amount of labor and heat required to turn local clay into durable paving blocks.
The surviving bricks are more than old construction materials. They represent the workers who mined the clay, fired the kilns, loaded the railcars and helped build Southeast Ohio’s communities.
What Brick History Means for Today’s Homeowners
Historic brick can give a Southeast Ohio property tremendous character, but age and condition matter. Buyers considering an older brick home should pay attention to:
Cracked, loose or deteriorated mortar joints
Bulging or shifting exterior walls
Moisture intrusion and white mineral deposits
Damaged chimneys and foundations
Painted brick that may trap moisture
Previous repairs made with incompatible mortar
Older brick and mortar were often softer than modern masonry materials. Repairs should be evaluated and completed by someone familiar with historic masonry. Using an overly hard modern mortar can sometimes damage the surrounding brick.
A general home inspection—and, when necessary, an evaluation by a qualified masonry contractor—can help buyers understand whether the brick is simply showing its age or needs significant repair.
Preserving a Southeast Ohio Legacy
Southeast Ohio’s brick-making history is a reminder that our homes and communities were shaped by the natural resources found beneath the Appalachian hills. The same clay that once supported local factories now survives in historic homes, storefronts, sidewalks and public squares.
When you purchase an older Southeast Ohio property, you may be buying more than a house. You could be becoming the next caretaker of a small piece of the region’s industrial history.
If you are considering buying or selling a historic home in Southeast Ohio, I can help you evaluate the property, understand the local market and prepare for a successful transaction.
Brian Kapple, REALTOR® | ABR®, SRS, PSA
Wiseman Real Estate Josh Bodimer, Broker
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