Gallia County is a rural, Appalachian county situated between the mighty Ohio River and the gently rolling hills of southeastern Ohio. By 1807, settlers from Massachusetts and Virginia moving westward joined about 20 French families living in the area and formed a stable and prosperous community. Today, Gallia County citizens are proud of their past and work hard for its future. Rich in history, the county’s abundant natural beauty and classic charm is home to approximately 31,000 residents. This majestic location provides extensive biking, backpacking, and hiking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the bountiful hunting and fishing opportunities, too. Twenty-eight percent of the population is over the age of 50 and 29% is under the age of 20. There are two school districts located within the county, a city district and a local district, which surrounds the city district and serves most of the rural area of the county.

Although rural, the community is home to the University of Rio Grande and within 45 minutes driving time of Ohio University, Marshall University, and Shawnee State University. Holzer Medical Center, located in Gallia County, is a major regional medical center housing over 100 medical specialists. The county has attractive, well-maintained recreational facilities at the O.O. McIntyre Park and offers easy access to the Ohio River for boating and water recreation at numerous sites. Gallia County is also home to Bob Evans Farms and the largest junior fair for youth exhibitors in the state.