Historic Marker Unveiling - The Findlay Jeffersonian: David Ross Locke and the Nasby Letters

Join the Hancock Historical Museum, the Ohio History Connection, the Findlay-Hancock County Alliance, America 250-Ohio, and the Hancock County Commissioners' Office for the unveiling of a new Ohio Historical Marker honoring journalist and satirist David Ross Locke and his nationally influential Nasby Letters.
Best known by his pen name “Petroleum V. Nasby,” Locke 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 Historical Marker Unveiling ceremony will recognize Hancock County’s important connection to one of America’s earliest and most influential political humorists. The historical marker 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 ceremony will take place on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, from 12:00–1:00 PM at the Hancock County Courthouse and is free and open to the public.
This project was funded and supported by the Barbara & Edwin Heminger Memorial Fund.