The land that comprised Washington Township was separated from Heidelberg Township in 1847, and the establishment of the Union Church led to the region’s settlement. John Peters, the area’s first landowner, gave his name to the village known as Petersburg. In 1860 the area became known as Friedensville, but the name was later changed to Hoffmans’ P.O. because another Friedensville post office already existed. Rural free delivery in 1911 eliminated the need for a post office, and the name reverted to Friedens. Although no hotel was ever established there, Friedens was home to numerous businesses.