Tom Fenton reviews materials printed for Marietta's birthday in 1930's at the annual Pioneer Dinner. (Photo by Gwen Sour)

City officials and residents gathered Tuesday to mark the 238th anniversary of Marietta’s founding, honoring the members of the Ohio Company who landed here, during a Pioneer Dinner and annual Founders Day observance.

During the event, Mayor Josh Schlicher issued a formal proclamation recognizing April 7, 2026, as the city’s 238th birthday, citing the historical significance of Marietta as the country’s first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory.

“Under the terms of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 … establishing free government, securing constitutional liberty, forbidding slavery, promoting education and encouraging the influences that foster good human beings and citizens,” Schlicher said, “these principles reflect the founders of Marietta, principles always demanding attention and appreciation.”

Schlicher called on residents to “exhibit gratitude for the legacy of the founders” and to continue the preservation and improvement of the community while celebrating the milestone.

The Pioneer Dinner, held annually, commemorates the arrival of Ohio Company settlers on April 7, 1788. The event also featured a traditional reading delivered by Judy Piersall, continuing a long-standing custom tied to the gathering.

Piersall read remarks originally written by Arthur Devol Barker, which are presented each year as part of the Founders Day program.

“We are gathered here this evening in commemoration of the landing of the pioneers in Marietta on April 7, 1788,” Piersall read. “We are here to honor them and other early settlers of this region who, through bravery, hardship, toil and sound judgment have contributed so largely to the wonderful development of the Northwest Territory.”

The reading also paid tribute to subsequent generations who continued to shape the community.

“Their lives should be an inspiration to us who remain here on earth to do our part in carrying on the works in which they so nobly participated,” Piersall said.

As part of the evening, descendants of those early families were recognized, with attendees invited to stand and be acknowledged for their connection to Marietta’s founding.

The Washington County Historical Society helped support the event and continues to maintain archives documenting the region’s history. Jack Harris, incoming president of the organization, said the group remains focused on preserving local records and encouraging community involvement.

“The annual dinner reflects on the city’s origins and the importance of preserving local history,” Harris said. “Our commitment is to preserve the history of the area … which actually is a very historic area.”

Harris said the society’s archives include family histories, court records and other materials tied to Washington County, and that the organization is always seeking volunteers interested in history.

Organizers said the annual event serves as both a tribute to the past and a reminder of the responsibility to carry that legacy forward as the community looks ahead to upcoming America 250 observances.