Thomas Worthington, a crucial champion for Ohio’s entry into the Union in 1803, serving as US Senator and later Governor.
Thomas Worthington, along with John Smith, were the first two U.S. Senators to represent the great state of Ohio at the 8th Congress, starting in March of 1803. I made a previous argument you’re a legitimate US State when you have senators fighting for your state’s rights in Washington, D.C. It is interesting to note, in the 7th Congress, which met from March 1801-March 1803, there were 2 seats marked “vacant” for representatives from Ohio, meaning Ohio could claim statehood as early as 1801.
Worthington first served in the legislature of the Northwest Territory campaigning for Ohio’s admission into the Union.