text:
Paoli, Indiana

Paoli is a town within Paoli Township and the county seat of Orange County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 3,677 at the 2010 census.

History
Paoli was laid out and platted in 1816. It was named for Pasquale Paoli Ash, the son of North Carolina governor Samuel Ashe. A post office has been in operation at Paoli since 1817.

In its first decades, it was noted as a Quaker town that played a role in the Underground Railroad by transporting enslaved people from the South to Canada. In the 1900s, it became known as the site of the Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest, a surviving fragment of the once-extensive virgin oak forest of southern Indiana.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Paoli has a total area of 3.75 sqmi, of which 3.74 sqmi (or 99.73%) is land and 0.01 sqmi (or 0.27%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Paoli has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,677 people, 1,484 households, and 923 families living in the town. The population density was 983.2 PD/sqmi. There were 1,645 housing units at an average density of 439.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.7% White, 0.3% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.3% of the population.

There were 1,484 households, of which 31.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.2% were married couples living together, 15.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.8% were non-families. 32.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.97.

The median age in the town was 39.7 years. 23.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.5% were from 25 to 44; 25% were from 45 to 64; and 17.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.3% male and 51.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,844 people, 1,581 households, and 1,013 families living in the town. The population density was 1,016.0 PD/sqmi. There were 1,725 housing units at an average density of 455.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.34% White, 0.21% African American, 0.23% Native American, 0.18% Asian, 0.18% from other races, and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.70% of the population.

There were 1,581 households, out of which 31.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.7% were married couples living together, 11.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 32.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 2.90.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.7% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 21.5% from 45 to 64, and 18.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $26,962, and the median income for a family was $34,412. Males had a median income of $28,566 versus $20,110 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,313. About 12.8% of families and 15.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.2% of those under age 18 and 13.3% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture

Thomas Newby Braxtan House, Orange County Courthouse, and Paoli Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The town has a lending library, the Paoli Public Library.

Media
The Paoli News-Republican is a newspaper founded in 1875, and published weekly in Paoli.

Notable people

 * Sandra Blanton, Democratic member of the Indiana House of Representatives from 2007 to 2011
 * Margaret Hamilton, developed on-board flight software for the Apollo program
 * Ken Trinkle, right-handed relief pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1943 to 1949.

title: Paoli, Indiana


text:
West Baden Springs, Indiana

West Baden Springs is a town in French Lick Township, Orange County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 574 at the 2010 census.

History
West Baden Springs is located in the vicinity of several mineral springs. The town was founded in the 1850s, and named after the spa towns of Wiesbaden or Baden-Baden, in Germany. A post office has been in operation at West Baden Springs since 1861.

Dixie Garage, First Baptist Church, Homestead Hotel, Oxford Hotel, West Baden National Bank, and West Baden Springs Hotel are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, West Baden Springs has a total area of 1.098 sqmi, of which 1.09 sqmi (or 99.27%) is land and 0.008 sqmi (or 0.73%) is water.

2018 census
As of the census in 2018, the town of West Baden Springs resided 475 people. As of right now, the results of the number of the town's households and families have not been released. The median age of West Baden Springs was 47.5 years of age. The median household income of the small town was $41,458. Between 2017 and 2018 the town's population shrunk from 526 to 475: a -9.7% decrease. The five most represented ethnic groups in West Baden Springs were as follows in descending order: White (90.3%), Black or African American (3.16%), Hispanic (1.89%), and American Indian and Alaska Native (1.47%). The average property value of West Baden is $91,600. The homeownership rate is 67.6%. The majority of West Baden Springs residents commute by driving alone and the average commute time is 17.9 minutes. The average number of cars per household in West Baden Springs is two cars.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 574 people, 251 households, and 149 families residing in the town. The population density was 526.6 PD/sqmi. There were 303 housing units at an average density of 278.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 93.4% White, 3.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.4% of the population.

There were 251 households, of which 27.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.2% were married couples living together, 12.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 40.6% were non-families. 36.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.29 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age in the town was 40.4 years. 24% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.3% were from 25 to 44; 25.3% were from 45 to 64; and 17.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.2% male and 49.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 618 people, 263 households, and 175 families residing in the town. The population density was 577.8 PD/sqmi. There were 292 housing units at an average density of 273.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.50% White, 2.10% African American, 0.81% Native American, 0.81% Asian, 1.13% from other races, and 0.65% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.07% of the population.

There were 263 households, out of which 24.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.2% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.1% were non-families. 29.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.35 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 21.7% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 26.5% from 45 to 64, and 15.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.1 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $32,750, and the median income for a family was $40,357. Males had a median income of $29,444 versus $19,375 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,532. About 10.3% of families and 9.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.8% of those under age 18 and 13.5% of those age 65 or over.

West Baden Springs Hotel

The historic, 243-room luxury hotel is part of the French Lick Resort Casino complex that also includes the French Lick Springs Hotel and its adjacent casino. A gala event on June 23, 2007, celebrated the reopening of the restored West Baden Springs Hotel. (The renovated French Lick Springs hotel and new casino opened on November 3, 2006. )

Built in 1902, the West Baden Springs Hotel became known for the 200 ft dome covering its atrium. The hotel was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and became a National Historic Landmark in 1987. It is also designated as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

Education
It is in the Springs Valley Community School Corporation. The district was formed in 1957, when the schools of French Lick and West Baden consolidated. The zoned secondary school is Springs Valley High School (junior and senior high school).

The pre-1957 West Baden High School had the "Sprudels" as a mascot; the name means "springs" in German, though the mascot took a form of an elf. The school colors were purple and white. Prior to the consolidation, West Baden Springs and French Lick high schools were athletic rivals.

Notable people

 * Larry Bird, professional basketball player, born in West Baden Springs

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: West Baden Springs, Indiana


text:
Gosport, Indiana

Gosport is a town in Wayne Township, Owen County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 826 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Bloomington, Indiana Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Gosport was platted in 1829, and named for Ephraim Goss, an early settler. A post office has been in operation at Gosport since 1843.

The Gosport Historic District and Dr. H.G. Osgood House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Gosport has a total area of 0.39 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 826 people, 325 households, and 202 families residing in the town. The population density was 2117.9 PD/sqmi. There were 380 housing units at an average density of 974.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.5% White, 0.7% African American, 0.1% Asian, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 325 households, of which 35.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.1% were married couples living together, 12.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 37.8% were non-families. 32.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.42 and the average family size was 3.00.

The median age in the town was 38.2 years. 25.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.9% were from 25 to 44; 23.8% were from 45 to 64; and 16.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.0% male and 54.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 715 people, 273 households, and 190 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,868.6 PD/sqmi. There were 301 housing units at an average density of 786.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.60% White, 0.42% African American, 0.42% Native American, 0.14% Asian, and 0.42% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.24% of the population.

There were 273 households, out of which 34.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.7% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.4% were non-families. 27.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.9% under the age of 18, 5.2% from 18 to 24, 27.3% from 25 to 44, 20.8% from 45 to 64, and 19.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $31,833, and the median income for a family was $34,545. Males had a median income of $32,396 versus $18,667 for females. The per capita income for the town was $14,101. About 14.4% of families and 17.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 30.4% of those under age 18 and 4.4% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * U.S. Army Colonel Benjamin F. Hays was born on September 4, 1826, in Greene County, Tennessee. He served as a Second Lieutenant in B Company, 4th Indiana Infantry during the Mexican War.  During the Civil War, he served in the 1st Indiana Heavy Artillery, promoted to colonel on February 8, 1865.  He fought in the Battle of Baton Rouge and the Battle of Mobile Bay.  Following the war, he commanded the District of South Alabama, until he was mustered out on January 10, 1866.  Then, he served in the Indiana House of Representatives in 1867.  He resided in Gosport as a merchant until he died on January 14, 1872.
 * U.S. Army Colonel James Ellis Burton was born on September 23, 1824, to John and Nancy Agnes (née Wishard) Burton in Mount Tabor, Indiana. He was married to Cynthia Ann (née Van Buskirk), and they had one son.  He was promoted to colonel on May 4, 1865, and mustered out on July 21, 1865.  Colonel Burton fought in the Atlanta Campaign, the Savannah Campaign, and the Carolinas Campaign.  He was a merchant before the war and a farmer in Gosport afterwards.  He died on September 28, 1900.
 * Child actress Patsy Doris Dittemore was born in Gosport on March 20, 1934, to James and Gladys Elizabeth (May) Dittemore. Her mother died 19 days after her birth; and, she was sent to California to live with her maternal grandparents, taking their last name and being called "Patsy May."  She played the baby sister of Spanky in the Our Gang series of short-subject comedies from 1935 to 1937, appearing for the first time in Little Papa and the last time in Our Gang Follies of 1938.  At age 11, her final film appearance was in an uncredited role in the Great Stagecoach Robbery (1945).  She died on January 1, 2013, and is buried in the Gosport Cemetery.
 * Eugene M. Stoner, inventor of the M16 rifle, was born in Gosport on November 22, 1922, to Lloyd and Britannia Stoner. He joined the U.S. Marines as an armorer and fought in the South Pacific during World War II, honorably discharged as a corporal. He held some 100 patents on his inventions, and was a co-founder of Ares Incorporated, a weapons research and development company based in Port Clinton, Ohio.
 * James Alexander Thom, author, was born in Gosport on May 26, 1933

title: Gosport, Indiana


text:
Spencer, Indiana

Spencer is a town in Washington Township, Owen County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 2,217 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Owen County.

Spencer is part of the Bloomington, Indiana Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Spencer was platted in 1820, and named for Captain Spier Spencer, who fell at the Battle of Tippecanoe, after whom Spencer County is also named. A post office has been in operation at Spencer since 1821. The current building was constructed with New Deal funds in 1938.

The Allison-Robinson House, David Enoch Beem House, Owen County Courthouse, Spencer Public Library, and Spencer Town Hall and Fire Station are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Downtown events include Christmas at the Square, Spencer Pride Festival, and the Rev20 Christian Music Festival.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Spencer has a total area of 1.26 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Spencer has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,217 people, 1,008 households, and 554 families living in the town. The population density was 1759.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,123 housing units at an average density of 891.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.1% White, 0.1% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 1,008 households, of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 38.4% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 45.0% were non-families. 40.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.12 and the average family size was 2.81.

The median age in the town was 41.8 years. 20.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.2% were from 25 to 44; 26.3% were from 45 to 64; and 19.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 47.2% male and 52.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,508 people, 1,090 households, and 659 families living in the town. The population density was 1,984.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,193 housing units at an average density of 944.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.52% White, 0.20% African American, 0.40% Asian, 0.24% from other races, and 0.64% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.60% of the population.

There were 1,090 households, out of which 27.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.1% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.5% were non-families. 35.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 23.0% under the age of 18, 10.1% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 20.3% from 45 to 64, and 20.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $28,664, and the median income for a family was $36,921. Males had a median income of $29,679 versus $21,531 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,843. About 8.4% of families and 9.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 13.2% of those under age 18 and 8.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Owen Valley Community High School (OVHS) is located in Spencer with 980 students and more than 100 faculty members. Built in 1971, OVHS is the result of a consolidation of several smaller schools located within Owen County. Owen Valley's mascot is the Patriot, and the school's colors are red, white and blue. The school's yearbook is the Triad, Tri- representing the three schools that were merged to create Owen Valley High School.

The town has a lending library, the Owen County Public Library.

title: Spencer, Indiana


text:
Bloomingdale, Indiana

Bloomingdale is a town in Penn Township, Parke County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 335 at the 2010 census.

History
The town of Bloomingdale was platted in 1825 or 1826, south of its present location. Originally it was named Bloomfield. A post office called Bloomingdale has been in operation since 1860. The Friends' Bloomingdale Academy was in operation from 1846 to 1916.

The William Hill Polygonal Barn was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993.

On June 17, 2021, a magnitude 3.8 earthquake occurred 2 miles west of Bloomingdale. No damage was reported.

Geography
Bloomingdale is located about 6 mi north of the county seat of Rockville. U.S. Route 41 passes less than a mile to the east of the town.

According to the 2010 census, Bloomingdale has a total area of 0.58 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, there were 335 people, 129 households, and 96 families living in the town. The population density was 577.6 PD/sqmi. There were 150 housing units at an average density of 258.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.6% White, 0.3% African American, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.3% of the population.

There were 129 households, of which 35.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.8% were married couples living together, 14.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 25.6% were non-families. 20.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.60 and the average family size was 3.02.

The median age in the town was 38.5 years. 23.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 10.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.8% were from 25 to 44; 30.2% were from 45 to 64; and 12.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.4% male and 49.6% female.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 319 people, 135 households, and 88 families living in the town. The population density was 558.7 PD/sqmi. There were 159 housing units at an average density of 278.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.06% White, 0.31% African American, 0.31% Pacific Islander, and 0.31% from two or more races.

There were 135 households, out of which 27.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 8.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.8% were non-families. 31.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.4% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 29.5% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 84.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $36,500, and the median income for a family was $46,071. Males had a median income of $27,308 versus $20,417 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,928. About 2.2% of families and 2.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 4.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Bloomingdale, Indiana


text:
Marshall, Indiana

Marshall is a town in Washington Township, Parke County, Indiana, United States. As of the 2010 census, the population was 324.

History
A post office has been in operation at Marshall since 1878. The town was named for Mahlon W. Marshall, an original owner of the town site.

The Arch in the Town of Marshall was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Marshall has a total area of 0.26 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 324 people, 121 households, and 90 families living in the town. The population density was 1246.2 PD/sqmi. There were 136 housing units at an average density of 523.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.5% White, 1.2% Native American, and 0.3% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.2% of the population.

There were 121 households, of which 34.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.0% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 25.6% were non-families. 19.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.06.

The median age in the town was 39.6 years. 23.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 10.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.1% were from 25 to 44; 29.9% were from 45 to 64; and 12.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.9% male and 53.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 360 people, 131 households, and 96 families living in the town. The population density was 1,464.4 PD/sqmi. There were 144 housing units at an average density of 585.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.17% White and 0.83% from two or more races.

There were 131 households, out of which 39.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.3% were married couples living together, 13.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.0% were non-families. 22.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.75 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 33.1% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 18.6% from 45 to 64, and 12.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $33,906, and the median income for a family was $36,042. Males had a median income of $30,417 versus $22,292 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,889. About 8.4% of families and 16.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.2% of those under age 18 and 2.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Marshall, Indiana


text:
Mecca, Indiana

Mecca is a town in Wabash Township, Parke County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 335 at the 2010 census.

History
The town of Mecca was platted on August 7, 1890, by Samuel Hixon and his friend Tom L. McCune. As of 1913, its population was about 1,400.

A post office has been in operation at Mecca since 1888.

The Mecca Covered Bridge and Wabash Township Graded School are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Mecca is located along the Big Raccoon Creek in the southeastern part of the county, about 6 mi west-southwest of the county seat of Rockville. The main part of the town is on the west side of the creek, but a portion is on the east side; the Mecca Covered Bridge crosses the creek here. The Wabash River lies about 2 mi to the west. U.S. Route 41 passes with 0.5 mi of the town, to the southeast.

According to the 2010 census, Mecca has a total area of 0.39 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 335 people, 124 households, and 93 families living in the town. The population density was 859.0 PD/sqmi. There were 140 housing units at an average density of 359.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.6% White, 0.3% Asian, 0.9% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 124 households, of which 41.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.2% were married couples living together, 15.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 10.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 25.0% were non-families. 20.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.70 and the average family size was 3.06.

The median age in the town was 35.5 years. 30.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.1% were from 25 to 44; 21.9% were from 45 to 64; and 15.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 53.1% male and 46.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 355 people, 136 households, and 96 families living in the town. The population density was 884.1 PD/sqmi. There were 156 housing units at an average density of 388.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.03% White, 0.28% Native American, and 1.69% from two or more races.

There were 136 households, out of which 36.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.3% were married couples living together, 16.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.4% were non-families. 25.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 30.7% under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 28.7% from 25 to 44, 26.8% from 45 to 64, and 7.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $31,375, and the median income for a family was $35,000. Males had a median income of $24,886 versus $20,938 for females. The per capita income for the town was $12,094. About 10.2% of families and 8.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.4% of those under age 18 and 8.3% of those age 65 or over.

title: Mecca, Indiana


text:
Montezuma, Indiana

Montezuma is a town in Reserve Township, Parke County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 1,022 at the 2010 census. It is located approximately 66 miles west of the state capital Indianapolis.

History
Montezuma was laid out in about 1824. The town was named for Moctezuma II, ruler of the Aztec Empire. A post office has been in operation at Montezuma since 1825.

On June 17, 2021, Montezuma experienced an earthquake that measured 3.8 on the moment magnitude scale.

Geography
Montezuma lies along the Wabash River on the western border of Parke County, where U.S. Route 36 crosses the river. Most of the town is in Reserve Township, but the south edge extends into Wabash Township.

According to the 2010 census, Montezuma has a total area of 0.6 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,022 people, 417 households, and 274 families living in the town. The population density was 1703.3 PD/sqmi. There were 514 housing units at an average density of 856.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.1% White, 0.2% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 1.6% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.3% of the population.

There were 417 households, of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.4% were married couples living together, 15.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.3% were non-families. 28.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.95.

The median age in the town was 38.5 years. 26.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.5% were from 25 to 44; 26.2% were from 45 to 64; and 15% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.5% male and 49.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,179 people, 476 households, and 343 families living in the town. The population density was 1,908.1 PD/sqmi. There were 527 housing units at an average density of 852.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.95% White, 1.95% African American, 0.17% Native American, 0.17% Asian, and 0.76% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.76% of the population.

There were 476 households, out of which 30.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.3% were married couples living together, 14.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.9% were non-families. 23.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.46 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.0% under the age of 18, 8.3% from 18 to 24, 25.4% from 25 to 44, 24.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $31,111, and the median income for a family was $35,313. Males had a median income of $29,803 versus $19,219 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,754. About 16.9% of families and 20.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 29.5% of those under age 18 and 16.0% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The town has a lending library, the Montezuma Public Library.

Notable people

 * Gordon Allport (1897–1967), a noted personality theorist; born in Montezuma.
 * James W. Hawkes (1853–1932), minister, a missionary in Qajar Iran, and a founder of a school; born in Montezuma.

title: Montezuma, Indiana


text:
Rockville, Indiana

Rockville is a town in Adams Township, Parke County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 2,607 at the 2010 census. The town is the county seat of Parke County. It is known as "The Covered Bridge Capital of the World".

History
Rockville was laid out in 1824, three years after the county was founded, and became the county seat. In 1825, its population was between 500 and 600. The residents voted to incorporate the town in July 1854.

The Rockville Chautauqua Pavilion and Rockville Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

An earthquake measuring 3.8 on the moment magnitude scale was recorded in the city and confirmed by the USGS on June 17, 2021, with numerous aftershocks reported in cities around the state and Illinois

Geography

Rockville is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 36 and U.S. Route 41, about 30 mi southwest of Crawfordsville.

According to the 2010 census, Rockville has a total area of 1.49 sqmi, all land.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Rockville has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,607 people, 1,212 households, and 679 families living in the town. The population density was 1749.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,394 housing units at an average density of 935.6 /mi2. The racial makeup of the town was 98.7% White, 0.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.7% of the population.

There were 1,212 households, of which 24.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 39.9% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 44.0% were non-families. 39.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.14 and the average family size was 2.82.

The median age in the town was 44.8 years. 20.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.2% were from 25 to 44; 27.4% were from 45 to 64; and 22.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.8% male and 53.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,765 people, 1,286 households, and 735 families living in the town. The population density was 1,924.4 PD/sqmi. There were 1,390 housing units at an average density of 967.4 /mi2. The racial makeup of the town was 98.16% White, 0.14% African American, 0.47% Native American, 0.29% Asian, 0.22% from other races, and 0.72% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.83% of the population.

There were 1,286 households, out of which 24.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.8% were non-families. 39.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 23.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.82.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 21.5% under the age of 18, 6.9% from 18 to 24, 27.0% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 23.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 77.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $27,813, and the median income for a family was $36,066. Males had a median income of $30,909 versus $21,745 for females. The per capita income for the town was $18,431. About 14.8% of families and 15.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 28.0% of those under age 18 and 9.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The town has a lending library, the Rockville Public Library.

Arts and culture
Rockville hosts the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival.

Notable people

 * Mark L. De Motte - A Representative in the Forty-seventh US Congress.
 * Morris K. Jessup - UFO conspiracy theorist.
 * Don Lash - long-distance runner and Federal Bureau of Investigation agent
 * J. Howard Moore - Zoologist, philosopher, educator and socialist
 * Joseph A. Wright - Former Governor of Indiana

title: Rockville, Indiana


text:
Rosedale, Indiana

Rosedale is a town in Florida Township, Parke County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 725 at the 2010 census.

History
When Parke County was established in 1821, Rosedale was the first village in the county, and served as the first county seat. The town was named for Chauncey Rose, a pioneer who settled in this township in 1819. Later the county seat was moved to Armiesburg, and then in 1822 to Rockville (where it remained). The first court session in the county was held in Roseville. The town flourished until 1835 when more business began to be drawn to Rockville. In 1861, the post office was established in Rosedale, where it is still currently operating.

Geography
Rosedale is located near the southern border of the county, about 10 mi from the county seat of Rockville, and less than 1 mi south of Big Raccoon Creek.

According to the 2010 census, Rosedale has a total area of 0.39 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 725 people, 287 households, and 196 families living in the town. The population density was 1812.5 PD/sqmi. There were 332 housing units at an average density of 830.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.2% White, 0.1% Native American, 0.1% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.1% of the population.

There were 287 households, of which 36.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.3% were married couples living together, 19.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.7% were non-families. 27.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 2.96.

The median age in the town was 36.4 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.2% were from 25 to 44; 26% were from 45 to 64; and 12.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.3% male and 53.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 750 people, 304 households, and 210 families living in the town. The population density was 1,890.6 PD/sqmi. There were 322 housing units at an average density of 811.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.60% White, 0.13% African American, 0.13% Native American and 0.13% Asian.

There were 304 households, out of which 36.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.6% were married couples living together, 12.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.9% were non-families. 28.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.47 and the average family size was 2.99.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.1% under the age of 18, 9.7% from 18 to 24, 28.8% from 25 to 44, 18.5% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $34,519, and the median income for a family was $40,556. Males had a median income of $33,000 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,301. About 11.0% of families and 14.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.0% of those under age 18 and 14.8% of those age 65 or over.

title: Rosedale, Indiana


text:
Cannelton, Indiana

Cannelton is a city in Troy Township, Perry County, in the U.S. state of Indiana, along the Ohio River. The population was 1,563 at the 2010 census. Cannelton, which was the smallest incorporated city in the state until 2010, was formerly the county seat of Perry County until the seat was relocated to Tell City.

History
The name Cannelton was adopted in 1844, and is derived from the cannel coal that was once mined in the area. A post office has been in operation at Cannelton since 1844.

The Cannelton Cotton Mill, Cannelton Historic District, and St. Luke's Episcopal Church are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Cannelton has a total area of 1.582 sqmi, of which 1.48 sqmi (or 93.55%) is land and 0.102 sqmi (or 6.45%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Cannelton has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,563 people, 687 households, and 385 families living in the city. The population density was 1056.1 PD/sqmi. There were 809 housing units at an average density of 546.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.4% White, 0.1% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.8% of the population.

There were 687 households, of which 29.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.4% were married couples living together, 15.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 44.0% were non-families. 39.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the city was 38.5 years. 25.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.7% were from 25 to 44; 27.7% were from 45 to 64; and 14.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.8% male and 51.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,209 people, 509 households, and 297 families living in the city. The population density was 816.0 PD/sqmi. There were 577 housing units at an average density of 389.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.01% White, 0.08% African American, 0.33% Native American, 0.08% Asian, 0.50% from other races, and 0.99% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.58% of the population.

There were 509 households, out of which 26.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.4% were married couples living together, 9.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.5% were non-families. 38.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.30 and the average family size was 3.08.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 23.7% under the age of 18, 11.2% from 18 to 24, 27.3% from 25 to 44, 21.8% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $27,361, and the median income for a family was $37,188. Males had a median income of $26,940 versus $20,174 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,578. About 14.9% of families and 16.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 21.1% of those under age 18 and 5.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Cannelton has a public library, a branch of the Perry County Public Library.

Notable people

 * William P. Birchler, state representative
 * Tim Whelan, film director, writer, producer and actor

Sites of interest

 * Cannelton Cotton Mill, built in 1849, was once the largest industrial building in the United States west of the Allegheny Mountains. It is now a National Historic Landmark.
 * Cannelton Locks and Dam provides a 114-mile stretch of calm recreational water on the Ohio River between Cannelton and Louisville, Kentucky.
 * Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 710 Memorial. 8 miles east of town off State Road 166.

title: Cannelton, Indiana


text:
Tell City, Indiana

Tell City is a city in Troy Township, Perry County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. It is located along the Ohio River. The population was 7,506 at the 2020 census. The city is the county seat of Perry County.

History
Tell City traces its 150+ year old roots to a meeting in Cincinnati, Ohio in November 1856. A group of Swiss-German immigrants met in Cincinnati to organize a society known as the "Swiss Colonization Society." The society's purpose was to obtain affordable homesteads for mechanics, shopkeepers, factory workers, and small farmers in a location where all could live in harmony.

The Society decided to purchase a tract of land three miles (5 km) square to be surveyed as a city plot. The group was sent out to purchase the land and told to keep in mind they should find a healthful climate, fertile soil, good water, ample timber, as well as a location near a navigable river and a railroad, if possible. Purchase of a suitable site was made in July 1857. The tract, containing 4152 acre, was laid out in 392 town blocks with 7,328 building lots and 294 garden lots.

Before the settlers arrived, a name for the new town was selected. Initially called Helvetia, it was soon renamed Tell City, a name easier to pronounce and remember for English-speaking people. It was named for the legendary Swiss hero and liberator, William Tell.

Indicative of the foresightedness of Tell City's founders are the wide streets. They are named for great persons of the military, arts, letters and science: DeKalb, Watt, Winkelreid, Steuben, Payne, Herrman, Reubens, Lafayette, Schiller, Tell, Fulton, Jefferson, Mozart, Franklin, Humboldt, Pestalozzi, Washington, Blum and Gutenberg.

The Tell City post office has been in operation since 1858.

With 100 years of recorded history, the citizens of Tell City held a centennial celebration August 10–17, 1958 in honor of the early settlers and the founding of Tell City. After the success of the Centennial, the Tell City Historical Society decided they would sponsor a festival in 1959 to determine if the community would support it as an annual event. The festival, named Schweizer Fest (Swiss Fest), was a great success. Today, the festival remains one of Indiana's longest-running community festivals.

On March 17, 1960, Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 710, a Lockheed Electra turboprop airliner flying from Chicago to Miami lost a wing due to aerodynamic flutter and crashed in southern Indiana near Tell City. All 63 on board, including the crew, perished. The victims were impacted in a 30 ft crater, which became their final resting place. A monument with the names of the victims and the date of the tragedy marks the grave.

Steamboat 'Tell City'
The steamboat 'TELL CITY' was built in 1889 and named after Tell City. It was used to carry passengers and freight on the Ohio River until it sank on April 6, 1917 in Little Hocking, Ohio. The pilothouse survived the sinking and is the oldest remaining steamboat pilothouse, located at the Ohio River Museum in Marietta, Ohio.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Tell City has a total area of 4.635 sqmi, of which 4.53 sqmi (or 97.73%) is land and 0.105 sqmi (or 2.27%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 7,272 people, 3,224 households, and 1,971 families residing in the city. The population density was 1605.3 PD/sqmi. There were 3,574 housing units at an average density of 789.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.5% White, 0.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.3% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 3,224 households, of which 28.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 44.9% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.9% were non-families. 34.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.23 and the average family size was 2.84.

The median age in the city was 42 years. 22% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.1% were from 25 to 44; 27% were from 45 to 64; and 19.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.5% male and 52.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 7,845 people, 3,404 households, and 2,161 families residing in the city. The population density was 1,721.4 PD/sqmi. There were 3,700 housing units at an average density of 811.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.65% White, 0.27% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.23% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.14% from other races, and 0.50% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.89% of the population.

There were 3,404 households, out of which 26.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.3% were married couples living together, 10.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.5% were non-families. 33.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.85.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 9.2% from 18 to 24, 25.4% from 25 to 44, 22.7% from 45 to 64, and 20.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $31,045, and the median income for a family was $41,300. Males had a median income of $31,908 versus $21,232 for females. The per capita income for the city was $17,443. About 8.0% of families and 11.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.7% of those under age 18 and 8.8% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Tell City is home to the Tell City High School Marksmen. The school is in Class 2A for football, basketball, and baseball.

Tell City has a public library, a branch of the Perry County Public Library.

Notable people

 * Krista Blunk - former college basketball star
 * Wally Bruner - American journalist and television host
 * Ray Eddy - former college basketball coach of the Purdue Boilermakers
 * Paul D. Etienne - Sixth Archbishop of Seattle
 * Tom Kron - former college (Univ of Kentucky) and professional basketball star
 * Bob Lochmueller - former NBA player, college & high school basketball coach
 * Edwin D. Patrick - commander of the 6th Infantry Division during World War II
 * Bob Polk - former college basketball coach
 * Burke Scott - former college basketball player and U.S. Army Officer

title: Tell City, Indiana


text:
Troy, Indiana

Troy is a town in Troy Township, Perry County, Indiana, along the Ohio River near the mouth of the Anderson River. It is the second oldest city in Indiana. The population was 347 at the 2020 census.

History
Troy was laid out in 1815. Troy was an early county seat of Perry County. A post office has been in operation at Troy since 1818.

Future president Abraham Lincoln worked the ferry across the Ohio River at Troy with his father in his youth.

The Nester House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Troy has a total area of 0.32 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 385 people, 163 households, and 103 families living in the town. The population density was 1203.1 PD/sqmi. There were 190 housing units at an average density of 593.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.4% White and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.3% of the population.

There were 163 households, of which 31.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.6% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 36.8% were non-families. 31.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.36 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the town was 38.8 years. 23.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.6% were from 25 to 44; 29.5% were from 45 to 64, and 14.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.2% male and 53.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 392 people, 172 households, and 104 families living in the town. The population density was 1,248.4 PD/sqmi. There were 197 housing units at an average density of 627.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.23% White, 0.51% Native American, and 0.26% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.28% of the population.

There were 172 households, out of which 26.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.3% were married couples living together, 10.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 39.0% were non-families. 30.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 21.9% under the age of 18, 8.7% from 18 to 24, 31.4% from 25 to 44, 25.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $30,536, and the median income for a family was $32,708. Males had a median income of $28,333 versus $21,023 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,891. About 19.2% of families and 19.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 37.0% of those under age 18 and 7.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Troy is in the Tell City-Troy Township School Corporation.

Previously Troy had its own high school. The school colors were green and old gold, and the mascot was the Trojans. At one point the students were moved to Tell City High School.

title: Troy, Indiana


text:
Petersburg, Indiana

Petersburg is a city within Washington Township and the county seat of Pike County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 2,304 at the 2020 census.

Petersburg is part of the Jasper Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Petersburg was laid out in 1817. The city was named for Peter Brenton, an original owner of the town site. A post office has been in operation at Petersburg since 1823.

Geography
Petersburg is located at 38.49167°N, -87.28028°W (38.491653, -87.280372).

According to the 2010 census, Petersburg has a total area of 1.474 sqmi, of which 1.47 sqmi (or 99.73%) is land and 0.004 sqmi (or 0.27%) is water. The lower portion of the White River runs through the city.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Petersburg has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As the 2010 census, there were 2,383 people, 1,025 households and 592 families living in the city. The population density was 1621.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,134 housing units at an average density of 771.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 97.7% White, 0.5% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.5% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 0.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 1,025 households, of which 25.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 43.5% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 42.2% were non-families. 37.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.18 and the average family size was 2.89.

The median age was 43.8 years. 20% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.9% were from 25 to 44; 27.6% were from 45 to 64; and 21.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup was 48.6% male and 51.4% female.

2000 census
At the 2000 census, there were 2,570 people, 1,092 households and 670 families living in the city. The population density was 1,755.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,228 housing units at an average density of 838.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup was 99.07% White, 0.19% African American, 0.04% Native American, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.08% from other races, and 0.58% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.39% of the population.

There were 1,092 households, of which 24.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.1% were married couples living together, 11.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.6% were non-families. 35.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.24 and the average family size was 2.88.

21.6% of the population were under the age of 18, 7.5% from 18 to 24, 26.7% from 25 to 44, 23.4% from 45 to 64, and 20.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.4 males.

The median household income was $27,054 and the median family income was $37,460. Males had a median income of $31,510 and females $21,042. The per capita income was $15,158. About 6.7% of families and 11.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.9% of those under age 18 and 16.7% of those age 65 or over.

Industry
One coal-fired power-plant: Indianapolis Power & Light (IPL)'s Petersburg Generating Station, is within two miles of Petersburg. There are also two coal mines within ten miles of Petersburg. Hoosier Energy's Frank E. Ratts Generating Station was torn down during late 2016 and early 2017 and the site has been graded and seeded.

Education
There is one school district in the county, Pike County School Corporation.

Prior to 1974, Petersburg had its own high school. The school colors were red and white, and the mascot was the Indians (meaning Native Americans). The school absorbed students from Union High School in 1937. In 1974, it merged into Pike Central High School.

Petersburg has a public library, a branch of the Pike County Public Library.

Notable people

 * Jody Davis, guitarist for Newsboys
 * Samuel Hugh Dillin, judge
 * John W. Foster, journalist and diplomat, U.S. Secretary of State
 * Thomas L. Hisgen, nominee for President of the United States of the Independence Party in 1908
 * Gil Hodges, Hall of Fame baseball player and manager
 * Clyde Lovellette, professional basketball player
 * Melba Phillips, physicist and science educator
 * John Wesley Posey, abolitionist
 * Joe Wyatt, professional baseball player
 * Derek Lunsford, bodybuilder (2023 Mr. Olympia)

title: Petersburg, Indiana


text:
Spurgeon, Indiana

Spurgeon is a town in Monroe Township, Pike County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 207 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Jasper Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Spurgeon was originally called Pleasantville, and under the latter name was laid out in 1860. A post office has been in operation under the name Spurgeon since 1867.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Spurgeon has a total area of 0.18 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 207 people, 78 households, and 57 families living in the town. The population density was 1150.0 PD/sqmi. There were 87 housing units at an average density of 483.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.7% White, 3.9% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.4% of the population.

There were 78 households, of which 30.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.3% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.9% were non-families. 20.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 3.02.

The median age in the town was 40.4 years. 25.1% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 21.3% were from 25 to 44; 34.3% were from 45 to 64; and 10.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 51.2% male and 48.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 227 people, 93 households, and 62 families living in the town. The population density was 1,299.1 PD/sqmi. There were 101 housing units at an average density of 578.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.12% White, 0.44% from other races, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.32% of the population.

There were 93 households, out of which 34.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.9% were married couples living together, 6.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.3% were non-families. 30.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.6% under the age of 18, 9.7% from 18 to 24, 30.8% from 25 to 44, 17.6% from 45 to 64, and 13.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 99.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.6 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $36,429, and the median income for a family was $44,375. Males had a median income of $27,031 versus $19,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,850. About 3.2% of families and 4.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.0% of those under the age of eighteen and 5.3% of those 65 or over.

Education
There is one school district in the county, Pike County School Corporation.

Prior to 1966, it had its own high school. The school colors were black and red, and the mascot was the Cardinals. That year, it merged into Winslow High School. That school in turn merged into Pike Central High School in 1974.

title: Spurgeon, Indiana


text:
Winslow, Indiana

Winslow is a town in Patoka Township, Pike County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 764 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Jasper Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Winslow was laid out in 1837. The town was named after William Winslow Hathaway, son of an early settler. A post office has been in operation at Winslow since 1839.

The town's name is part of the namesake of the Algers, Winslow and Western Railway which operates within Pike County, and passes through the community.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Winslow has a total area of 0.639 sqmi, of which 0.63 sqmi (or 98.59%) is land and 0.009 sqmi (or 1.41%) is water.

Climate
The climate in this area is characterized by hot, humid summers and generally mild to cool winters. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Winslow has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 864 people, 333 households, and 241 families living in the town. The population density was 1371.4 PD/sqmi. There were 397 housing units at an average density of 630.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.8% White, 0.1% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.1% of the population.

There were 333 households, of which 34.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.3% were married couples living together, 15.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.6% were non-families. 24.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.01.

The median age in the town was 38.6 years. 26.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 9.7% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22.2% were from 25 to 44; 25.7% were from 45 to 64; and 15.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 46.9% male and 53.1% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 881 people, 370 households, and 237 families living in the town. The population density was 1,367.1 PD/sqmi. There were 414 housing units at an average density of 642.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.18% White, 0.57% Native American, 0.68% Asian, and 0.57% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.59% of the population.

There were 370 households, out of which 28.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.3% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.9% were non-families. 31.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.96.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.3% under the age of 18, 9.1% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 20.7% from 45 to 64, and 17.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $28,672, and the median income for a family was $33,864. Males had a median income of $30,063 versus $19,259 for females. The per capita income for the town was $13,986. About 11.3% of families and 13.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 18.1% of those under age 18 and 8.1% of those age 65 or over.

Education
There is one school district in the county, Pike County School Corporation.

Prior to 1974, Winslow had its own high school. The school colors were purple and gold, and the mascot was the Eskimos. That year, it merged into Pike Central High School.

Winslow has a public library, a branch of the Pike County Public Library.

Notable people
The town of Winslow was home to Richard "Dick" Farley and the town's main bridge bears his name. Farley was a basketball player for the Winslow Eskimos and went on to play for Indiana University and the Detroit Pistons. Richard Farley died in Terre Haute, Indiana in the 1970s of cancer.

title: Winslow, Indiana


text:
Beverly Shores, Indiana

Beverly Shores is a town in Pine Township, Porter County, Indiana, United States, about 36 mi east of downtown Chicago. The population was 613 at the 2010 census.

History
Beverly Shores began life as a planned resort community. The Chicago, Lake Shore & South Bend Railway began to provide service from South Bend to Chicago shortly after 1900. The Chicago businessman Samuel Insull reorganized the line as the Chicago, South Shore & South Bend (today's South Shore Line) in 1925, upgrading the stations and encouraging tourism. A number of promotional posters were issued, many of which remain in print.

The Frederick H. Bartlett Company, at that time one of Chicago's largest real-estate developers, bought 3600 acre in the area in 1927, and plotted thousands of homesites. He named the prospective development Lake Shore, North Shore Beach and South Shore Acres. The Great Depression dampened its prospects, and many of the plots were never built on.

Robert Bartlett, Frederick Bartlett's brother, purchased the properties in 1933. He named the entire development after his daughter Beverly, and continued to develop its infrastructure with roads, a school, a golf course, and a hotel. He purchased and relocated sixteen structures from Chicago's 1933-34 Century of Progress World's Fair, four of which were transported by barges on Lake Michigan.

The community was incorporated in 1947. After World War II, a number of industrial developments, including Burns Harbor, were built to the west, and by the 1950s environmental organizations had begun to push for preservation of the area. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was established in 1966. During the 1970s, there was a movement to purchase all the homes in Beverly Shores and incorporate the entire town into the National Lakeshore. This initiative did not succeed, but many local properties were acquired, especially those in the wetlands that constitute the southern portion. The acquisition process is ongoing. The owners of lots fronting on the beach were granted lifetime leasebacks with the proviso that the property would revert to the National Lakeshore; many of these houses have since been demolished.

The 1970s saw a period of record high lake levels and beach erosion; the owners of lakefront properties often responded by dumping large quantities of concrete blocks (riprap) onto the sand in front of their houses, which continue to mar the beach. The beach is now conspicuously public, although nearby parking is limited.

A resurgence of development took place during the 1990s and 2000s, when many million-dollar-plus houses were built on the dunes near the lakefront. In the early 2000s, excessive levels of arsenic, boron, lead, and manganese were found in wells in the nearby town of Pines, and pipelines delivering Lake Michigan water treated by Michigan City were extended into Beverly Shores. This time period also saw explosive growth of the local white-tailed deer population, a problem that has polarized its residents.

In 1998, the Spanish Colonial Revival train depot, originally built in 1929, was reopened following a historic renovation. The restored train depot now also houses a museum, displaying historic photographs and memorabilia, and a gallery, featuring rotating exhibits of local art.

Easily accessible from Chicago, Beverly Shores is a second home to many Chicagoans who are referred to locally as some-timers. Both full-time and some-time residents come together for community activities such as ice skating on the frozen pond during Winterfest, the 5k Necktie Race held on Father's Day, and the annual summertime event the Fireman's Ball which raises money for the volunteer fire department.

Beverly Shores has always enjoyed the reputation of being a "gay-friendly" community. For example, the "Last Outpost" and "Los Compadres" restaurants were, in their heyday, major points of interest in northwest Indiana for the homosexual community. Along with the acceptance of gay culture, Beverly Shores has long been a haven for artists.

In the recent years up to 2008, there were no local Beverly Shores eating or drinking establishments. Grecco's and the Red Lantern were two restaurants down by the beachfront but they closed a long time ago. In November 2008, the old Bruno's Bar was reopened after much renovation under the name Bartlett's, a nod to the developer, Robert Bartlett. Bartlett's closed in 2019. Later that year, a restaurant, deli, and bar, the Goblin and the Grocer, opened at the corner of Broadway and Dunes Highway. In 2010, the Rolling Stonebaker, a Studebaker fire truck converted into a wood-fired pizzeria, opened in Beverly Shores. In 2011, The Rolling Stonebaker was named the best pizza in the state of Indiana by Food Network Magazine.

Beverly Shores attracts many visitors, particularly nature enthusiasts, cyclists and bird watchers, who come to enjoy the beaches and the marshlands. Overnight lodging options are limited but visitors who wish to stay the night can reserve a campsite at Dunewood Camp.

On June 24, 2014, the International Dark-Sky Association announced Beverly Shores as the world's seventh international dark sky community.

Geography
Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline and adjacent to the Indiana Dunes National Park, the town was initially developed as a planned resort community of second homes for Chicago residents. Six sites are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. These include a cluster of six buildings that were transported by barge from the Homes of Tomorrow Exhibition of the 1933 Century of Progress World's Fair which took place in Chicago. This site is known as the Century of Progress Architectural District. Beverly Shores is located at 41.68427°N, -86.98567°W, along the Lake Michigan shoreline. It is bordered by Indiana Dunes State Park on the west, Lake Michigan on the north, the village of Pines on the south, and Michigan City on the east. Much of the immediate area is part of Indiana Dunes National Park.

According to the 2010 census, Beverly Shores has a total area of 5.82 sqmi, of which 3.58 sqmi (or 61.51%) is land and 2.24 sqmi (or 38.49%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 613 people, 312 households, and 193 families residing in the town. The population density was 171.2 PD/sqmi. There were 527 housing units at an average density of 147.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.6% White, 1.3% African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.8% of the population.

There were 312 households, of which 12.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.8% were married couples living together, 5.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 38.1% were non-families. 32.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.96 and the average family size was 2.45.

The median age in the town was 59 years. 9.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 10.4% were from 25 to 44; 41.9% were from 45 to 64; and 34.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.2% male and 49.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 708 people, 340 households, and 213 families residing in the town. The population density was 197.9 /mi2. There were 524 housing units at an average density of 146.5 /mi2. The racial makeup of the town was 97.60% White, 0.71% African American, 0.42% Asian, 0.14% from other races, and 1.13% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.28% of the population.

There were 340 households, out of which 11.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.4% were married couples living together, 4.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 37.1% were non-families. 29.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.08 and the average family size was 2.53.

In the town, the population was 11.4% persons under the age of 18, 4.9% aged 18 to 24, 20.3% aged 25 to 44, 40.8% aged 45 to 64, and 22.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 51 years. For every 100 females, there were 110.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $59,107, and the median income for a family was $81,203. Males had a median income of $46,389 versus $38,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $40,825. About 4.0% of families and 4.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.4% of those under age 18 and 1.4% of those age 65 or over.

Beverly Shores buildings in the National Register of Historic Places

 * The Bartlett Real Estate Office (added 2004 - Building #04000208), also known as Beverly Shores Administration Building, at 500 South Broadway
 * The Beverly Shores South Shore Railroad Station (built 1929, added 1989 - Building #89000411), Broadway Avenue and US 12
 * Beverly Shores--Century of Progress Architectural District (added 1986 - District #86001472), also known as World's Fair Houses, at 208, 210, 212, 214, and 215 Lake Front Drive
 * The Imre and Maria Horner House (designed by Otto Kolb) (added 1996 - Building #96001006)
 * The Dr. John and Gerda Meyer House (built 1961, added 2012)
 * Solomon Enclave

title: Beverly Shores, Indiana


text:
Burns Harbor, Indiana

Burns Harbor is a town in Westchester Township, Porter County, Indiana, United States on the shores of Lake Michigan in Northwest Indiana. It is part of the Chicago metropolitan area. The population was 1,156 at the 2010 census. Burns Harbor is located adjacent to the Indiana Dunes, an area that conservationists have fought hard to preserve.

History
Burns Harbor was founded in 1966. The town took its name from a local port which was named for the harbor's promoter Randall W. Burns.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Burns Harbor has a total area of 6.78 sqmi, of which 6.66 sqmi (or 98.23%) is land and 0.12 sqmi (or 1.77%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,156 people, 456 households, and 305 families living in the town. The population density was 173.3 PD/sqmi. There were 495 housing units at an average density of 74.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.4% White, 1.8% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 1.1% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.8% of the population.

There were 456 households, of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.5% were married couples living together, 10.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.0% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.1% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.54 and the average family size was 3.10.

The median age in the town was 34.6 years. 26.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 31% were from 25 to 44; 25.6% were from 45 to 64; and 10.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.8% male and 49.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 766 people, 303 households, and 219 families living in the town. The population density was 112.1 PD/sqmi. There were 323 housing units at an average density of 47.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.26% White, 0.26% African American, 1.17% Native American, 1.04% Asian, 0.39% from other races, and 2.87% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.31% of the population.

There were 303 households, out of which 30.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, 7.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.4% were non-families. 22.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.53 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.7% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 28.5% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 10.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 103.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 111.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $53,929, and the median income for a family was $57,188. Males had a median income of $43,393 versus $22,143 for females. The per capita income for the town was $23,344. About 4.2% of families and 6.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.4% of those under age 18 and 5.6% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation
Burns Harbor benefits from close access to many major forms of transportation.

Airports
 * Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY) in Gary
 * O'Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago
 * Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) in Chicago
 * South Bend Regional Airport (SBN) in South Bend
 * Porter County Regional Airport (VPZ) in Valparaiso

Commuter Rail
 * The South Shore Line provides service between Chicago and South Bend. The closest station is located at Ogden Dunes, Indiana. The South Shore is operated by the Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD).

Ports
 * The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor which includes an international shipping port and the Burns Waterway Small Boat Harbor for public access to Lake Michigan. The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor is divided between Burns Harbor and Portage. BurnsHarbor Harborlake view.jpg

Highways
 * Interstate 80
 * Interstate 90
 * Interstate 94
 * U.S. Route 12
 * U.S. Route 20
 * Indiana State Road 149

Education
Burns Harbor is served by Duneland Schools (http://www.duneland.k12.in.us) providing education for grades Kindergarten through 12, and is in close proximity to many higher education facilities including:
 * Indiana University Northwest (IUN)
 * Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana (Ivy Tech)
 * Purdue University North Central (PNC)
 * Purdue University Calumet (Purdue Cal)
 * Valparaiso University (Valpo)

In popular culture
The rock band Turnerjoy practiced in the basement of a mobile home company in Burns Harbor. The band is the subject of the 2020 documentary Get Out of Home and scenes from the movie take place in Burns Harbor.

title: Burns Harbor, Indiana


text:
Chesterton, Indiana

Chesterton is a town in Westchester, Jackson and Liberty townships in Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 14,241 at the 2020 Census. The three towns of Chesterton, Burns Harbor, and Porter are known as the Duneland area.

Etymology
The name Chesterton comes from its township, with Chester deriving from Westchester and the -ton suffix denoting it as a town.

History
Chesterton was first settled under the name Coffee Creek in 1833, with its post office being established in 1835. The post office would eventually be renamed to Calumet in 1850, as which the town was platted when the railroad was extended to that point in 1852. Due to a town on the same railroad also being named Calumet, the name would finally be changed to Chesterton in 1870 and it was reincorporated as a town in 1899 after a failed incorporation in 1869, with its population of 788 being the second-largest in Porter County at the time.

In 1933, a United Airlines NC13304 flight became the first known, proven case of sabotage in an aircraft. It was downed by a nitroglycerine bomb above Chesterton on October 10, 1933. All 7 people aboard the aircraft—four passengers and a crew of three—were killed in the crash.

In 1962, United Tractor moved to the town.

Geography
Just north of the town is Indiana Dunes State Park and Indiana Dunes National Park. Most of the town is flat. However, going south into the city on the Route 49 overpass, one can see the Valparaiso Moraine in the distance.

According to the 2010 census, Chesterton has a total area of 9.44 sqmi, of which 9.33 sqmi (or 98.83%) is land and 0.11 sqmi (or 1.17%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 13,068 people, 5,029 households, and 3,554 families living in the town. The population density was 1400.6 PD/sqmi. There were 5,354 housing units at an average density of 573.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 92.7% White, 1.4% African American, 0.3% Native American, 2.1% Asian, 1.8% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.9% of the population.

There were 5,029 households, of which 37.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.1% were married couples living together, 11.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 29.3% were non-families. 23.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.58 and the average family size was 3.07.

The median age in the town was 37.8 years. 26.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 27.5% were from 25 to 44; 27.5% were from 45 to 64; and 11.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.7% male and 51.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 10,488 people, 4,039 households, and 2,879 families living in the town. The population density was 1,232.0 PD/sqmi. There were 4,212 housing units at an average density of 494.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.29% White, 0.44% African American, 0.21% Native American, 1.37% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.51% from other races, and 1.16% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.31% of the population.

There were 4,039 households, out of which 36.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.3% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.7% were non-families. 23.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.8% under the age of 18, 8.1% from 18 to 24, 29.6% from 25 to 44, 24.8% from 45 to 64, and 10.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $55,530, and the median income for a family was $66,239. Males had a median income of $50,599 versus $28,300 for females. The per capita income for the town was $26,539. About 3.1% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.5% of those under age 18 and 4.2% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Chesterton High School, or CHS, serves the tri-town area. Chesterton High School operates Chesterton's only local radio station, WDSO 88.3.

Two private schools also operate in Chesterton: St. Patrick Catholic Elementary School and Fairhaven Baptist Academy.

In Chesterton, there are 5 public elementary schools. These are Liberty Elementary School, Bailly Elementary School, Yost Elementary School, Jackson Elementary School, and Brummitt Elementary School. These schools serve grades K-4. After 4th grade, students from Jackson and Liberty will move to Liberty Intermediate School for 5th and 6th grade. Students from Bailly, Yost, and Brummitt will move to Westchester Intermediate School for 5th and 6th grades. After the 6th grade, all students from Liberty and Westchester will go to Chesterton Middle School for 7th and 8th grades. After 8th, students will move to Chesterton High School for their Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years.

The town has a lending library, the Westchester Public Library.

Media
Chesterton has a local newspaper, the Chesterton Tribune, which was first established in 1882 before shortly going out of business and later being resurrected in 1884. It had been published daily since 1961 before ceasing operations on December 30, 2020. However, it was purchased by Hometown Media Inc. on March, 10th, 2021, becoming a twice-weekly, full color paper. The town also is serviced by Chesterton's high school radio station, WDSO, which provides local news in addition to its regular music programming.

Transportation
The South Shore Line, operated by the Northwest Indiana Commuter Transportation District, is headquartered in Chesterton. The South Shore Line stops north of Chesterton at the Dune Park station with multiple trains per day to Chicago and South Bend. V-Line's Orange Line route stops near the South Shore station, indirectly connecting Chesterton to Valparaiso University on weekends.

Festivals
Chesterton was home to the annual Wizard of Oz Festival, established in 1982, which is the largest and most famous of its kind. In 2006, former organizers Lakeshore Festivals and Events moved the event to the Porter County Expo Center in Valparaiso, Indiana. After 3 years, LFE discontinued the festival and it was brought home to Chesterton by the Duneland Business Initiative Group in 2009. The Duneland Business Initiative later rescinded their support of the festival in 2013.

Notable people

 * Jim Gaffigan, standup comedian and actor
 * Ron Kittle, former Major League Baseball player
 * Mitch McGary, University of Michigan basketball player
 * Mickey Morandini, former Major League Baseball player
 * Zack Novak, former NCAA (University of Michigan) and professional basketball player
 * Matt Nover, former professional basketball player and actor
 * Blake Pieroni, Gold medalist swimmer and current Indiana University swimmer
 * Eddie Wineland, professional MMA fighter (Bantamweight)
 * Taylor Zakhar Perez, actor

Parkland
Chesterton's park system includes several large public parks downtown and sports fields. The town is also served by the Porter County Park District and the nearby Indiana Dunes State Park. Several trails connect Chesterton with Porter and Indiana Dunes National Park (which is connected to Indiana Dunes State Park).

Coffee Creek
Coffee Creek flows through an area that includes downtown Chesterton. The Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve includes a restored section of the creek and its associated wetland.

Historic Preservation

 * Chesterton Commercial Historic District
 * Chesterton Residential Historic District
 * George Brown Mansion
 * Norris and Harriet Coambs Lustron House
 * New York Central Railroad Passenger Depot, Chesterton, Indiana
 * Martin Young House

title: Chesterton, Indiana


text:
Dune Acres, Indiana

Dune Acres is a town in Westchester Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 182 at the 2010 census. Dune Acres is located in the duneland of the south shore of Lake Michigan. Many residents of Dune Acres and surrounding communities helped preserve parts of the Indiana Dunes.

History
Dune Acres was platted in 1923 as a lakeside resort village.

The Dune Acres Clubhouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Dune Acres has a total area of 3.44 sqmi, of which 2.17 sqmi (or 63.08%) is land and 1.27 sqmi (or 36.92%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 182 people, 94 households, and 58 families residing in the town. The population density was 83.9 PD/sqmi. There were 163 housing units at an average density of 75.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.1% White, 1.1% African American, 2.2% Asian, 0.5% from other races, and 1.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.6% of the population.

There were 94 households, of which 10.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.6% were married couples living together, 1.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.3% were non-families. 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 1.94 and the average family size was 2.41.

The median age in the town was 63.4 years. 8.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 3.1% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 4.3% were from 25 to 44; 36.8% were from 45 to 64; and 46.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 52.2% male and 47.8% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 213 people, 101 households, and 76 families residing in the town. The population density was 99.7 PD/sqmi. There were 154 housing units at an average density of 72.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.06% White, and 0.94% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.41% of the population.

There were 101 households, out of which 13.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.3% were married couples living together, 5.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.8% were non-families. 20.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.11 and the average family size was 2.39.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 11.7% under the age of 18, 3.3% from 18 to 24, 13.1% from 25 to 44, 33.8% from 45 to 64, and 38.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 60 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.9 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $94,843, and the median income for a family was $102,524. Males had a median income of $83,632 versus $41,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $68,051. None of the population or families were below the poverty line.

Transportation
In the past, Dune Acres was served by the eponymous station on the South Shore Line, which was located at Mineral Springs Road. That station was closed in 1994 as part of NICTD's effort to consolidate the line's Porter County stations. Since then, the community has been served by the Dune Park station. V-Line's Orange Line route stops at the station Friday-Sunday, allowing Dune Acres residents to connect to Valparaiso (and vice versa). Coach USA's Tri-State/United Limo Service stops at the nearby town of Portage, providing a direct connecting to Chicago's O'Hare Airport.

Dunes Highway (U.S. Route 12) is the closest highway to Dune Acres. The closest airport is located in western Gary, and the closest Amtrak station is located further northeast in Michigan City.

Notable people

 * Jim Gaffigan, comedian
 * Jack Knight, Aviation pioneer

title: Dune Acres, Indiana