Wooden Ballot Box

Object/Artifact

-

The Cardinal Collection

Name/Title

Wooden Ballot Box

Entry/Object ID

2022.2.22.34

Description

This wooden ballot box for Oxford Township, Ohio, has dovetailed corners, a hinged lid, and a locking mechanism. "North Precinct Oxford TP." is lettered on the box lid. It was in 1884 that states began adopting a secret ballot policy. It was also in 1884 that an act establishing the boundaries of a North and South Precinct in Oxford Township passed. In the early history of the United States, most voting was conducted publicly. A vote would often be cast out loud, which led to manipulation and intimidation becoming commonplace. Later, even paper ballots were completed in crowded rooms with election officials and others looking over your shoulder. By 1892, most states adopted a secret ballot procedure. Each state has taken many years to find the best election process for its constituents.

Location

Building

Oxford Township Trustees Office

Section with Park

Hueston Woods Pioneer Farm

Ohio State Park

Hueston Woods State Park