Alexander Hill came to Marietta in the 1800s and started the first furniture factory ever in the northwest territory. The furniture factory was located where the Lafayette Hotel's parking lot stands today. Furniture made by Alexander Hill was shipped to New Orleans and other large cities up and down the river by ships and boats that were also constructed in Marietta and once docked along the riverbank behind the Lafayette Hotel.
For years now I have contacted every mayor ever since 1979 to be elected in Marietta to please erect a historical marker there, and even offered to make a donation to erect the sign.
Alexander Hill was not only a furniture maker, he was once the sheriff of Washington County and served from 1814 to 1816, and also supported himself by making furniture cabinets and coffins for local residents.
When Hill came to Marietta, he didn't intend to live in Washington County. His real intentions was moving to New Orleans, Louisiana, where he hoped to find himself a career related to the sea. He, however, settled in Marietta, where he quickly emerged as a prominent and respected resident.
Larry Koon is the author of several price guide books on antiques and collectibles. His column appears every Monday on Life. Send letters to Treasure in the Attic, c/o The Marietta Times, 700 Channel Lane, Marietta 45750; or e-mail him at koonantiques@yahoo.com. When writing, send a complete description of the item, along with size, color, any markings on the item along with condition the item is in, and how the item was obtained, and any other information. If possible, send a photograph. Letters will be answered through this column.
