I first heard about Athens, Ohio, from a friend who studied at Ohio University. I have to admit that I was skeptical about how exciting a small college town could be. The city became the home of Ohio University in 1804, making it the first institution of higher learning in what was then the western frontier of the United States. Ohio University Shapes the Town’s IdentityYou can’t separate Athens from Ohio University because the two have grown together for more than two centuries, creating a relationship that benefits both town and gown. This Appalachian identity adds depth and authenticity to Athens that distinguishes it from generic college towns.