Barnesville was first "laid out" in 1808 by James Barnes, who had travelled to the area hoping to create a new Quaker settlement in a rural setting.

James soon left to return to Maryland, but his brother stayed as mayor of the developing town and took up residence on Main Street.

It was during this time period that many of the current buildings were constructed, lending Barnesville a unique post-Civil War architectural theme.

When peace was finally declared after World War II, none in the town realized that it would begin a declining trend in the community.

The armistice of the Korean War finally signalled an end to the war-time production demanded during the 1940s and many communities suffered as a result.

The district totals 198 structures consisting of 180 contributing properties, as well as the Barnesville Railroad Tunnel located under the intersection of East Main and Arch Streets.