The Chase Center collaborated with The Ohio State University and the America250-Ohio Commission to host a two-day conference, January 30-31, 2026, focused on New Perspectives on the Northwest Ordinance. Ohio was the first state to emerge from the Northwest Ordinance, adopted in 1787 by the Continental Congress, at the same time the U.S. Constitution was being deliberated.
The Northwest Ordinance is a founding document that is often overlooked despite its significant impact in shaping the future United States, especially what would later be called the American Midwest. The nation's 250 anniversary in 2026 gives Americans a great opportunity to rediscover the lessons and ideals that came from the Northwest Ordinance and learn new perspectives from scholars, educators and practitioners from the Midwest and beyond.
Day Two of the conference was organized by the Chase Center and focused on information for teachers, scholars, and public historians. Watch videos from Day Two by clicking on the topics below.
Welcome and "The Northwest Ordinance In Its Own Time"
A moderated discussion with panelists reflecting on how we should understand the Northwest Ordinance in the context of the early American Republic. Moderator: Brian Schoen, The Ohio State University; Brandon Downing, Marietta College; Paul Finkelman, University of Toledo; Francois Furstenberg, Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies, John Hopkins Krieger School of Arts and Sciences; and Margaret Newell, The Ohio State University
Strategies and Resources for Middle and High School Students
This session used the science of reading framework to enhance teachers’ and pre-service teachers’ ability to incorporate the Northwest Ordinance into Ohio History and Civics instruction. Resources and strategies will be tailored specifically for K–5 and 8th grade classrooms.
Decoding the Northwest Ordinance: Science of Reading
Master teachers shared their approaches to teaching the Northwest Ordinance at the secondary level. Attendees had time to break out and discuss how to adapt or create lesson plans for their own classrooms.
Public History and the Northwest Ordinance
Leaders in Midwest public history discuss collaborations with local historical societies and museums to commemorate the Northwest Ordinance and highlight its continued importance.
The Northwest Ordinance In Our Own Day
Scholars engage teachers and audience participants in a discussion of the Ordinance’s long-term impact, including how it helped shape the United States past and present.
Keynote: The Meaning of the Northwest Ordinance and the United States at 250
Annette Gordon-Reed is noted for transforming scholarship on Thomas Jefferson, particularly regarding his relationship with Sally Hemings and her children. Her books include the Pulitzer-Prizing winning “The Hemingses of Monticello: An American Family.”