The First Tobacconist
In the spring of 1817, Mr. J. L. Cochran engaged in the business of a tobacconist in Mud Hallow, on Main street , between Sixth street and Sewer alley, on the ground now occupied by property owned by C. Geis. He manufactured cigars, chewing and smoking tobacco for a great many years. His sign was a negro about three feet high, called Congo. In one hand the little black fellow held a bunch of cigars, in the other a box of snuff. The young chap was not flesh and bone, but wood. Wesley Alwine gave him the ebony tint.
Mr. Cochran was the first man who entered into the business of a tobacconist in Zanesville, in all its branches.
History of Muskingum County, Ohio p. 95