Clermont historian Gary Knepp has introduced a new blog series, “An American Moment,” in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. The articles tell stories of leadership and patriotism in Clermont County and beyond.
On July 4, 2025, Discover Clermont released the first article of "An American Moment" to its website, written by educator and honorary county historian Gary Knepp. As of January 6, 2026, Knepp has completed 11 articles for the 24-part series.
“Clermont County has a fascinating history that often gets overlooked,” Knepp said during an interview with WCPO Cincinnati. “It's very rewarding to find [local history] like that to share with people.”
The blog series examines watershed moments in national, state, and local history as part of Clermont County's ongoing contributions to the America 250 commemoration. Some of the topics covered in Knepp’s articles include:
Read Knepp’s most recent blog on Discover Clermont.
Historian Gary Knepp, The Clermont Sun
Attorney Gary Knepp is a lifelong resident of Clermont County. He graduated from Milford High School in 1972 before earning a Bachelor’s Degree in political science from Georgetown College. Knepp went on to earn a teaching certificate from the University of Cincinnati and a Juris Doctorate from Chase College of Law.
He began pursuing a career in law, practicing as an assistant public defender in Clermont’s Juvenile Court. Knepp has published eight books throughout his professional career, including “A Legal History of Clermont County, Ohio”, which explores the area’s role in abolition and retells the story of the first civil rights attorney, John Jolliffe.
Knepp’s writing also appears in academic journals, magazines, film, and PBS broadcasts. His book “Beyond the Names” received the National Service Award from the Vietnam Veterans of America.
Beyond his work as an author, Knepp also served two terms on the Milford City Council, was a member of Milford School’s Business Advisory Council, and served one term as a member of the Board of Education. He led the research and development of the “Clermont County Freedom Trail” as the director of the Underground Railroad research project. Knepp remains an inspiring figure in Clermont County for his dedication to preserving the community’s past.
The Ulysses S. Grant mural commemorates America 250 in New Richmond, OhioAmerica 250 — the official, non-partisan initiative led by the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence — is well underway. Clermont County has already secured its status as one of the most active contributors in 2025 and 2026.
Several townships revealed murals depicting different eras of the county’s long history as a crossroads of the American frontier and a home to many of its great leaders. Additionally, efforts by Discover Clermont and other local non-profits are planning a series of public events, media releases, and commemorative ceremonies to honor the patriotism of individuals and communities across Southwest Ohio.
See how Clermont County commemorates America 250
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