Discover West Liberty

West Liberty combines historic sites of remembrance with recreational opportunities along the Licking River. This gives you two distinct areas to consider when planning your trip: the town’s history and the activities available at Old Mill Park and along the river. The timeline spans from the early name Wells Mill to a courthouse built in 1907. Monuments add their own points of interest, while the park brings together specific activities and facilities, including a riverside path, playground, amphitheater, and boat launch.

History and Sites of Remembrance

The early settlement at the present-day town site was called Wells Mill until 1816. This name is part of the town’s early history. Three Civil War skirmishes took place near West Liberty; the earliest was in 1861. The town’s history therefore spans from the early settlement at its present-day site to events in the surrounding area.

West Liberty’s fourth courthouse was built in 1907. The “We Will Hold” statue at the Old Morgan County Courthouse depicts then-Captain William Earl Barber urging his Marines to hold a key frozen mountain pass at the Chosin Reservoir. On the lawn of the old courthouse, the Doughboy honors Morgan County residents who served in World War I. At Tredway Memorial Park, a women’s military monument represents women’s contribution to the country’s freedom. The memorials thus range from a depicted military scene to residents’ wartime service and women’s contributions.

Along the Licking River and at Old Mill Park

Old Mill Park has a natural amphitheater with a covered stage. A walking path also runs along the banks of the Licking River. These features give the park two distinct aspects: a built structure with a stage and a path by the water. The playground is divided into two areas for younger and older children. For adults considering a visit with children, this layout makes the age groups catered to in the play area clear at a glance.

The Licking River runs through West Liberty and offers activities such as canoeing and kayaking. When planning, you can distinguish these river activities from the path at Old Mill Park: one is a walking route along the riverbank, while the others are water sports on the river. Sherman Landing is also located in Old Mill Park and has a concrete launch ramp and steps. These specific features add to the picture of the park facilities without, in themselves, indicating a schedule or current operating status.

Planning your trip to West Liberty

If you’re looking for a hotel in West Liberty, the town’s history and recreational opportunities along the river may help shape your travel plans. If you’re more interested in history, you’ll find a range of memorials as well as the early name of the settlement. If you’re more interested in spending time outdoors, local highlights include the riverside path, playground, and river activities. If both appeal to you, you can take them into account together when planning your trip.

For an overview of the wider area, visit: Morgan County.