[6] By 2000, the village was plagued by toxic sulfurous gas clouds and acid rain from the nearby coal-fired Gavin Power Plant.

The plant's owner, American Electric Power (AEP), investigated the claims and found that no long-term injuries/illnesses resulted from the cloud but decided it could use the land to expand plant property for future technologies.

In 2002, AEP reached a settlement with residents that was effectively a $20 million buyout.

[7] Most of the 221 residents agreed to leave the town and absolve the company from future property or health claims, while some remain through either deals with the company or refusal to sell their property.

41.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

Public education in the village of Cheshire is provided by the Gallia County Local School District.