Community

East Palestine, pronounced (/ˌpæləˈstiːn/ PAL-ə-STEEN), is a village in northeastern Columbiana County, Ohio, United States. Located on the state’s border with Pennsylvania, East Palestine is about 20 miles south of Youngstown and 40 miles northwest of Pittsburgh. The town was founded in 1828 by Thomas McCalla and William Grate, and was initially known as Mechanicsburg. It was incorporated as a city in 1875, and was renamed “East Palestine” as part of a switch to religious nomenclature for communities in that area at that time, such as New Galilee, Enon Valley and Salem.

According to the United States Census Bureau, East Palestine has a total area of 3.15 square miles, with two streams that pass through the village; Leslie Run and Sulphur Run. Coordinates: 40°50′21″N 80°32′48″W Also, separate the link to the latitude and longitude and put a map in the photo spot.

History

The 19th century saw the rise of industry in the region, particularly with the discovery of coal and the development of the railroad. The availability of natural resources and transportation infrastructure attracted industries, and the production of ceramics, including pottery and porcelain and automobile tires contributed to the town’s economic prosperity.

Like many industrial towns in the United States, East Palestine faced challenges with the decline of traditional manufacturing industries in the latter half of the 20th century. Changes in consumer preferences, globalization, and economic shifts led to the closure of many pottery factories and other businesses. Today, East Palestine is a small city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Derailment

On February 3, 2023, an explosion and fire occurred following the derailment of a Norfolk Southern freight train carrying hazardous chemicals on the eastern end of town. This disaster has undeniably changed the town forever, but its people are resilient and determined to rebuild their community. East Palestine will continue to grow and evolve and turn this negative event into a positive outcome and come back stronger than ever before.