George Harsh

George Harsh (March 15, 1810 – May 5, 1897) was an American politician from Ohio. He served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, representing Stark County from 1846 to 1847 and served as a member of the Ohio Senate from 1860 to 1864.

Early life George Harsh was born on March 15, 1810, in Washington County, Pennsylvania, to Catherine (née Stricker) and George Harsh. His father was a farmer, and in 1813, the family moved near Massillon, Ohio. They purchased about of land. His parents were members of the German Lutheran Church. Harsh was educated at a log schoolhouse and also took an educational course in Canton. At the age of 17, Harsh taught country schools during the winter. He later became associated with A. J. Humberger and Samuel Oberlin in mercantile business. He retired from the mercantile business in 1863. Around 1866, Harsh started investing in real estate. He bought three farms near Massillon and bought a business block at the corner of Main Street and Erie Street in Massillon and two residences. He was a member of the school board of Massillon from 1851 to 1869.

Harsh was director of the Ohio Penitentiary from 1867 to 1873.