Moses Cleaveland, American general, lawyer, and politician, founded Cleveland, Ohio (d. 1806)

Moses Cleaveland: Architect of a Major Midwestern City and Revolutionary War Officer

Moses Cleaveland (January 29, 1754 – November 16, 1806) was a prominent American figure from Canterbury, Connecticut, whose multifaceted career encompassed law, politics, military service, and surveying. Best known as the visionary founder of the city of Cleveland, Ohio, his contributions significantly shaped the early development of the American frontier.

Early Life and Professional Background

Born into a respected Connecticut family, Cleaveland pursued higher education at Yale College, graduating in 1777. This academic foundation paved the way for a distinguished career as a lawyer and politician within Connecticut. However, it was his expertise as a surveyor and his military experience that would ultimately lead to his most lasting legacy.

The Founding of Cleveland and the Connecticut Western Reserve

In 1796, Moses Cleaveland embarked on a pivotal expedition as the principal agent and superintendent of the Connecticut Land Company. This private land company had acquired the majority of the Connecticut Western Reserve, a vast 3.3-million-acre tract of land in northeastern Ohio. This territory was part of Connecticut's original colonial land grant, which the state had retained rights to after ceding its western land claims to the federal government in 1786, later selling it to the Connecticut Land Company to fund public education.

Cleaveland's mission was to survey and map this expansive territory for future settlement and sale. His party, consisting of fifty-two individuals, including surveyors, chainmen, and axemen, journeyed westward. On July 22, 1796, Cleaveland selected a strategic site at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River, where it empties into Lake Erie, as the location for the company's capital city. Recognizing its natural harbor potential and fertile surroundings, the settlers unanimously decided to name the nascent settlement "Cleaveland" in his honor. Although Moses Cleaveland never permanently resided in the city he founded, returning to Connecticut after completing his surveying duties, his expedition laid the groundwork for what would become a major American metropolis.

Military Service During the American Revolution

Beyond his civilian endeavors, Moses Cleaveland distinguished himself through patriotic service during the American Revolution. He rose to the rank of brigadier general in the Connecticut militia, a significant leadership position within the state's armed forces. In this capacity, he played a vital role in organizing and commanding state troops, contributing to the defense and strategic efforts of the colonies during their fight for independence from Great Britain.

Legacy and Enduring Impact

Moses Cleaveland passed away on November 16, 1806, leaving behind a profound legacy. While he is primarily remembered as the founder of Cleveland, Ohio, his life exemplified the spirit of American expansion and enterprise in the late 18th century. His meticulous surveying work and strategic vision were instrumental in transforming uncharted wilderness into organized settlements, directly contributing to the westward expansion of the United States. The city of Cleveland, now a vibrant center of commerce, culture, and industry, stands as a lasting monument to his foresight and pioneering spirit. It is worth noting that the "a" was dropped from the city's name to "Cleveland" around 1831, reportedly due to a local newspaper's printing constraint to fit the name on its masthead.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moses Cleaveland and Cleveland's Founding

Who was Moses Cleaveland?

Moses Cleaveland was an American lawyer, politician, soldier, and surveyor from Connecticut, best known for founding the city of Cleveland, Ohio.

When was the city of Cleveland, Ohio, founded?

The city of Cleveland was founded in 1796, specifically on July 22, 1796, when Moses Cleaveland selected the site.

What was the Connecticut Western Reserve?

The Connecticut Western Reserve was a vast tract of land in northeastern Ohio, part of Connecticut's original colonial land grant, which was sold to the Connecticut Land Company for development.

Why is the city spelled "Cleveland" instead of "Cleaveland," like its founder's name?

The "a" was reportedly dropped from the city's name around 1831 by the local newspaper, the Cleveland Advertiser, to fit the name on its masthead, and the simplified spelling eventually became standard.

Did Moses Cleaveland live in Cleveland, Ohio?

No, Moses Cleaveland returned to Connecticut after completing his surveying mission in 1796 and did not permanently reside in the city he founded.