A segment of modern-day SR 361 running about from US 23 to the Logan Elm State Memorial was first designated in 1932 as an unnumbered gravel road. By 1934, the route received its number of SR 361. The route was extended to its current length between US 23 and SR 159 circa 1937. By 1948, the route was fully paved and has not changed since its first designation.