The Northwest Ordinance of 1787 

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This vital event shaped the overall education system in the United States. With the passing of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787, the United States Congress established a government north of the Ohio River. This ordinance affected the states of Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, and parts of Minnesota. These states comprise what became known as the Northwest Territory. All six states are located in the Midwestern region of the present-day United States.

Because of this ordinance, the further development of schools was made a priority. Improving general education was a point of emphasis, as well. In 1821, the Ohio Legislature authorized township trustees and village officials to levy taxes to support schools (Information from Nancy Gillihan). Events in 1787 and 1821 shaped the education system that Berea still has in place today. In 1787, Berea, unnamed at the time, was part of the Connecticut Western Reserve. When 1821 came around, Berea, still without an official city name, was known as Middleburgh, Township. With the passing of the Northwest Ordinance, Middleburgh Township became an area where general education was available to those who settled legally in Ohio.

 

* Source Material/Helpful Outside Article/Source: 

* Article: “Northwest Ordinance of 1787, passed July 13, 1787 - The Northwest Ordinance,” by Artifact Explorer https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/artifact/northwest-ordinance-1787-passed-july-13-1787