Lockland is named for the first set of lock gates on the Miami and Erie Canal. In a bygone era, the canal brought prosperity to Lockland, which in those times took advantage of the significant waterpower provided by a 15-foot drop in level along the canal’s path by operating a large gristmill.

The upsurge of railways eventually drew the business of transporting goods away from the canal, and by the 1940’s the Mill Creek Expressway (now a part of I-75) was created in its wake.

Many eye-catching historical buildings still frame the area surrounding the former canal. The quiet, friendly and walkable village was the second location of notable mattress company, Stearns and Foster, which operated in Lockland from 1882-2003.