The village of Harshaville was named after the Harsha Family. In 1846, Paul Harsha traveled from Pennsylvania to Ohio, where he purchased a large tract of land from Gen. Samuel Wright. There was already a gristmill on the property, so Paul built a sawmill, and operated them both. He later converted the mills from water power to steam power. In 1860, he torn down the mills and built a new mill, which contained the best machinery available at the time. Paul successfully operated the mill, farmed his land, and raised cattle up until his death in 1876. Of his 8 children, Paul Jr. decided to take over the family businesses. Paul Jr. was known as a successful and honest businessman, just like his father.

Confederate General John Hunt Morgan crossed over this covered bridge on July 15, 1863, while leading 2,000 of his raiders across Adams County.