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Sheridan, Indiana

Sheridan is a town in Adams Township, Hamilton County, Indiana, United States. The population was 2,665 at the 2010 census. The center of population of Indiana is located just northwest of Sheridan.

History
Sheridan, once the second largest town in Hamilton County, lies on the south edge of land originally owned by George Boxley, a merchant and miller in Virginia who had fled from there ahead of bounty hunters because he was also an abolitionist suspected of fomenting a failed slave rebellion in 1815. Considerable recent development has greatly increased the population of this historic town. The Sheridan Downtown Commercial Historic District encompasses approximately four blocks along Main Street from the former Monon railroad right-of-way north to Veteran's Park and Pioneer Hill, the site of the George Boxley Cabin, listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The origins of Sheridan, which started out as Millwood, are vague, owing partly to the loss of all the town's records in 1913 when a disastrous fire destroyed the town hall and many other buildings. No documentation supports the popular contention that Egbert Higbee started the town in 1860. Higbee, born in Ohio and brought to Adams Township as a child, did, indeed, lay out a town he called Millwood on land adjacent to the district school (built 1851) on the state road. He had acquired his land in parcels and filed his town plat in April 1866. Only two-and-a-half blocks divided into twenty lots, it was oriented in an east–west direction along the south side of the Lafayette-Noblesville state road, which Higbee designated as Main Street (present day Second Street; his “West Street” became Main). Higbee immediately began to sell off lots to enterprising merchants and a few mill owners, and the little village got its start. Higbee himself built a mill and laid out additions to his original plat. Caswell Boxley, however, subdivided the south edge of his land, which adjoined Higbee's plat across the state road and he laid out his own plat of Millwood immediately north and extending west of Higbee's. The initial town orientation was succeeded by one that placed Main Street in a north–south direction. In a few years the hamlet of Millwood applied for a post office and was granted one on January 30, 1871. Since there was already an existing post office in a village of the same name in Kosciusko County, this Millwood was rechristened “Sheridan,” in honor of Civil War general Philip Sheridan. The town had something of an identity crisis for a few years as some people continued to call it Millwood while others used the new name of Sheridan—even in official records. Its location on the state road connecting Noblesville and Lafayette was a good site for an agricultural center. By this time other entrepreneurs had laid out additions to Millwood as well, but growth was slow until the coming of the Monon Railroad in 1882 which stimulated a commercial and industrial boom. Several significant buildings from that early period survive, including the H.J. Thistlethwaite Building, constructed in 1886 to boast an opera house, a lodge room and retail spaces.

Industry soon clustered along the railroad toward the south end of Main Street. The Monon passed through Sheridan at a sharp angle from northwest to southeast. In no time it was lined with various mills and factories. The buzzing Town of Sheridan incorporated in 1886. The subsequent discovery of natural gas on West 3rd Street in 1888 boosted the town's growth even further as several additional industries chose to locate there. Sheridan's movers and shakers eagerly expanded their holdings to take advantage of this inexpensive fuel, which, unfortunately, as in  the several  other  “gas  boom” counties of Indiana, soon ran out. But for a time, Sheridan even boasted both glass factory and a cannery along with a large brickworks, the Thistlethwaite Tile and Brick plant. Several smaller brick manufacturers, along with numerous other industries, including Indiana Condensed Milk—a company purchased by Wilson's Milk, a leader in canned condensed milk. Despite the waning gas supply, many industries remained. Sheridan, around the turn of the twentieth century had become the second largest town in the county with a thriving commercial district along Main Street. Included were a large variety of stores, several hotels, banks, and lodges still sharing the street with a few dwellings. Many of these buildings survive, including the two large commercial buildings on Main—the Golden Rule general merchandise store and the dry goods store of Stanley Brothers. Both were constructed in the 1890s. The town applied to Andrew Carnegie for funds to build a library, a structure completed in 1912.

The great conflagration of 1913 started in a lumber company and destroyed much of the south end of downtown—mostly wood-frame structures. The Town Hall, which had stood on the east side of Main south of 5th Street, burned. After the fire, a new brick building was constructed at the southwest corner of Main and Cora (presently Jaycee) streets—previously the site of a livery stable that also burned. The aftermath of the fire resulted in considerable change downtown. Over the next 15 years, scattered houses on Main Street disappeared and were replaced by commercial buildings. Only the far north end of Main Street retained its original residential character. Several new businesses appeared, including several movie houses, although even before the fire, Sheridan had been proud that it possessed more than one nickelodeon. Another type of business that seemed to thrive downtown in the interwar years was the automobile dealership, but little evidence of any of these remain. The last bank of several institutions that had been established in town—the newly formed American State Bank of Sheridan—built its headquarters in 1914 at Main and Fourth. It remained to house a bank until 2006. Another beautiful former bank building built after the fire was the Farmers National Bank of Sheridan, now part of the adjacent hardware store. Sheridan's post office had initially been established within a general store on Second Street (the state road) east of Main Street. There were a number of other locations, among them a building on the west side of Main north of the American State Bank, from which the post office moved into its beautiful New Deal-funded building in 1940.

In the decades after World War II, other commercial areas developed. Some were along State Road 38 as it entered Sheridan from the east, and later, along State Road 47 on the south edge of town. But downtown Sheridan retained its character, and a substantial number of the historic buildings constructed from the 1880s to the 1930s remain intact. They constitute a three-dimensional historic document of Sheridan's boom years and stand at the heart of its new growth.

The George Boxley Cabin, Davenport-Bradfield House, and Sheridan Downtown Commercial Historic District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Sheridan has a total area of 2.144 sqmi, of which 2.14 sqmi (or 99.81%) is land and 0.004 sqmi (or 0.19%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,665 people, 1,013 households, and 698 families residing in the town. The population density was 1245.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,139 housing units at an average density of 532.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.3% White, 0.8% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 1.5% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.3% of the population.

There were 1,013 households, of which 38.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.2% were married couples living together, 13.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.1% were non-families. 26.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.14.

The median age in the town was 33.8 years. 29.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 29% were from 25 to 44; 23.1% were from 45 to 64; and 11% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.1% male and 49.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,520 people, 930 households, and 629 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,912.4 PD/sqmi. There were 988 housing units at an average density of 749.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.66% White, 0.56% African American, 0.12% Native American, 0.28% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.32% from other races, and 1.03% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.75% of the population. There were 930 households, out of which 36.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.2% were married couples living together, 11.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.3% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.4% 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 3.17.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 29.1% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 29.4% from 25 to 44, 18.8% from 45 to 64, and 14.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $38,390, and the median income for a family was $51,017. Males had a median income of $40,288 versus $26,544 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,802. About 2.7% of families and 5.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.2% of those under age 18 and 13.9% of those age 65 or over

Notable sports history
Sheridan High School has had notable success in football in recent years, winning Class 1A Indiana state championships in 1980, 1984, 1987, 1988, 1992, 1998, 2005, 2006, and 2007.under coach Larry "Bud" Wright, Indiana Hall of Fame Coach. 2007 marked the program's ninth state championship - breaking the state record. Wright's ninth championship as a head coach also breaks the state mark. In the 1940s and 1950s, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame coach Larry Hobbs led Sheridan teams to success.

The Sheridan High School Blackhawk Marching Band competed in ISSMA Class D competitions. The program flourished under the directorship of James (Jim) Tewell and later Jay Webb and James Haskell. The band made it to State Finals in 1988, 1993, 1994, 1995, and 1996. They won the ISSMA Class D State Championship in 1995. The band has also enjoyed success on the track circuit performing in the Indiana State Fair Band Day competition.

The Sheridan High School Blackhawk Winter Guard competed in IHSCGA competitions, and made it to State Finals in 1994, 1996, 1997, 2000 and 2001. In 1996 the girls brought home the third place bronze medal in the IHSCG State Finals. In 1996 and 1997 The Winter Guard competed in WGI regional competitions in Ohio and Tennessee representing the High School and the state of Indiana.

Transportation
Sheridan lies approximately 30 mi north-northwest of downtown Indianapolis at the intersection of Indiana Highways 38 and 47. It was on the Monon Railroad until that was closed. Sheridan is served by the Sheridan Airport as well as the nearby Indianapolis Executive Airport (IATA: KTYQ; formerly known as Indianapolis-Terry Airport)

Education

 * Sheridan Elementary School (Opened in August 2010)
 * Sheridan Middle School
 * Sheridan High School

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

Notable people

 * Mel Daniels, former NBA and NCAA Basketball Star.
 * David E. Kendall, Personal lawyer for Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton was born and raised in Sheridan.
 * Brad Maynard, former NFL punter.

title: Sheridan, Indiana


text:
Westfield, Indiana

Westfield is a city in Hamilton County, Indiana, United States. As of the 2010 census the population was 30,068, and in 2023 the population was 58,410. Westfield is in the Indianapolis metropolitan area.

History
Westfield was founded on May 6, 1834, by North Carolina Quakers Asa Bales, Ambrose Osborne, and Simon Moon. It is believed that the town was planned as a stop on the Underground Railroad with many families of the Religious Society of Friends and the Wesleyan Methodist Church supporting the cause. When the laws against aiding escaped slaves were made harsher, part of the Westfield Quaker Friends Meeting House split off into the Anti-Slavery Friends meeting.

Westfield was incorporated as a town in 1849.

On January 1, 2008, Westfield was incorporated as a city, and Andy Cook was sworn in as mayor. With recent annexations in southern Washington Township and rapid population growth in areas previously within the town limits, the city population in 2010 (30,068) was more than triple that of 2000 (9,293). Because of the growing size of the city, officials are planning a major revitalization of city's downtown. New additions to downtown Westfield are expected to include a new library and city hall.

The Union High Academy Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.

In 2014, the city opened Grand Park Sports Complex which hosted the 2016 Big Ten Conference Men's Soccer Tournament.

Demographics
As of 2000 the median income for a household was $52,963; and for a family, $65,208. Males had a median income of $45,388; females, $26,864. The per capita income was $22,160. About 2.3% of families and 4.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.5% of those under 18 years and 3.7% 65 years or over. The American Community Survey estimated the median household income in Westfield from 2007 to 2011 at $86,054 and the median family income at $96,374.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 30,068 people, 10,490 households, and 8,146 families residing in the town. The population density was 1120.3 PD/sqmi. There were 11,209 housing units at an average density of 417.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 90.9% White, 2.2% African American, 0.2% Native American, 2.5% Asian, 2.6% from other races, and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.8% of the population.

There were 10,490 households, of which 47.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.9% were married couples living together, 9.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 22.3% were non-families. 18.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.85 and the average family size was 3.27.

The median age in the town was 33.7 years. 31.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 31.6% were from 25 to 44; 23.7% were from 45 to 64; and 6.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.9% male and 51.1% female.

Local media
Westfield is served by a local weekly newspaper, the Current in Westfield. The area is also served by the Times of Noblesville and the daily Hamilton County Reporter from the neighboring county seat of Noblesville.

Grand Park
Grand Park is the largest youth sports campus in the United States, featuring 26 baseball and softball diamonds, 31 multipurpose fields for soccer, football, field hockey and lacrosse. An indoor events center opened in July 2016 that features three full-size multipurpose fields, and an indoor basketball/volleyball facility that features eight courts, with two of them being NBA-regulated, also opened and is named after the NBA's Indiana Pacers. Grand Park features an abundance of green space and more than 10 mi of pedestrian/bicycle trails, including the largest trailhead on the Monon Corridor.

Since opening, the campus has hosted several major events including: Whale of a Sale Consignment Event, Little League Softball and Baseball Region Tournaments, USA Archery Finals, Big Ten Women's and Men's Soccer Tournaments, US Club Soccer NPL Finals and Nationals, Suburban Indy Consumer Shows, plus many more.

In 2017 Westfield signed a 10-year contract with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts for their annual training camp.

The park has experienced about 750,000 visitors and 1,900,000 visits on average each year.

Geography
Westfield is located in western Hamilton County. It is bordered to the east by Noblesville and to the south by Carmel. To the west it is bordered by Zionsville in Boone County.

U.S. Route 31 is the main highway through the city, leading north 31 mi to Kokomo and south 9 mi to Interstate 465, the beltway around Indianapolis. Downtown Indianapolis is 20 mi south of the center of Westfield. Indiana State Road 32 is Westfield's Main Street and leads east 6 mi to Noblesville, the county seat, and west 18 mi to Lebanon.

According to the 2010 census, Westfield has a total area of 27.081 sqmi, of which 26.84 sqmi (or 99.11%) is land and 0.241 sqmi (or 0.89%) is water.

Notable people

 * Herb Baumeister, suspected serial killer
 * Claude Bowers, writer, Democratic politician, and ambassador to Spain and Chile
 * Joey Chestnut, competitive eater
 * Martha Doan, chemist and academic
 * Thomas Jefferson Lindley, Civil War veteran, Indiana state representative and senator
 * Ryan Pepiot, Major League Baseball pitcher (Los Angeles Dodgers, Tampa Bay Rays), Westfield High School graduate
 * Kevin Plawecki, Major League Baseball catcher (Boston Red Sox), Westfield High School graduate
 * Seth Cook Rees, pastor and leading figure in the evangelical Holiness movement
 * Ambrose J. Tomlinson, first general overseer of the Church of God
 * Eriq Zavaleta, professional soccer player (Toronto FC)
 * Braden Smith (basketball), 2022 Indiana Mr. Basketball, Purdue Boilermakers Basketball, 2024 1st Team All Big Ten

Public

 * Westfield High School (Grades 9–12)
 * Westfield Middle School (Grades 7–8)
 * Westfield Intermediate School (Grades 5–6)
 * Carey Ridge Elementary School (Grades K–4)
 * Maple Glen Elementary School (Grades K–4)
 * Monon Trail Elementary School (Grades K–4)
 * Oak Trace Elementary School (Grades K–4)
 * Shamrock Springs Elementary School (Grades K–4)
 * Washington Woods Elementary School (Grades K–4)

Private

 * Montessori School of Westfield
 * St Maria Goretti School (Grades PreK–8)
 * Union Bible College and Academy
 * Options Charter School(Grades 7–12)

Colleges and universities

 * Union Bible College and Seminary

Public library
The town has a lending library, the Westfield-Washington Public Library.

Sports
Westfield hosts the Great Lakes Regional Tournament in the Little League World Series each year. The tournament is held at the Grand Park Sports Campus.

Westfield also has a contract with the NFL's Indianapolis Colts to host their yearly training Camp at the Grand Park Sports Campus. This began in 2018, and the contract is for 10 years. Grand Park is also a sponsor of Indy Eleven and hosts some of the team's training.

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

title: Westfield, Indiana


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Cumberland, Indiana

Cumberland is a town in Hancock and Marion counties, Indiana, United States. The population was estimated to be at 6,419 as of the 2023 census up from 5,169 in 2010.

History
Cumberland was founded in the 1830s when the Cumberland Road (also known as the National Road) was extended to that point. Cumberland contained a post office from 1834 until it was discontinued in 1958. Since 1970, the Marion County portion of Cumberland has been subject to Unigov as an included town.

Geography
The center of Cumberland is in eastern Marion County, but the town limits extend east and north into western Hancock County, so that the majority of the town's area is now in Hancock County. U.S. Route 40, following the route of the National Road, is the main road through the community, leading west 10 mi to downtown Indianapolis and east the same distance to Greenfield, the Hancock county seat.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.82 sqmi, of which 0.01 sqmi, or 0.35%, are water. Buck Creek crosses the town, flowing south to join Sugar Creek near London. The town is part of the watershed of the East Branch of the White River.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 5,169 people, 1,972 households, and 1,422 families living in the town. The population density was 2509.2 PD/sqmi. There were 2,233 housing units at an average density of 1084.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 77.0% White, 16.8% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 2.3% from other races, and 2.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.3% of the population.

There were 1,972 households, of which 36.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.3% were married couples living together, 16.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.9% were non-families. 23.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.8% 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 3.05.

The median age in the town was 38.4 years. 27.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24% were from 25 to 44; 29.3% were from 45 to 64; and 11.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.1% male and 51.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,500 people, 2,030 households, and 1,565 families living in the town. The population density was 2,907.0 PD/sqmi. There were 2,190 housing units at an average density of 1,157.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 85.20% White, 10.56% African American, 0.22% Native American, 1.76% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.75% from other races, and 1.47% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.45% of the population.

There were 2,030 households, out of which 40.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 14.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.9% were non-families. 19.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.7% 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 3.08.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 30.0% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 29.9% from 25 to 44, 24.4% from 45 to 64, and 8.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.1 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $57,875, and the median income for a family was $61,739. Males had a median income of $48,750 versus $28,239 for females. The per capita income for the town was $24,746. About 5.0% of families and 6.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 12.2% of those under age 18 and 1.5% of those age 65 or over.

title: Cumberland, Indiana


text:
Fortville, Indiana

Fortville is a town in Vernon Township, Hancock County, Indiana, United States. The population was 4,784 at the 2020 census.

Geography
Fortville is located in the northwest corner of Hancock County, Indiana, immediately adjacent to neighboring Hamilton County, which forms the town's northwest boundary and Madison County, which borders to the north. It is approximately 25 mi northeast of Downtown Indianapolis, Indiana, and is a part of the Indianapolis metropolitan area.

According to the 2010 census, Fortville has a total area of 2.91 sqmi, of which 2.90 sqmi (or 99.67%) is land and 0.01 sqmi (or 0.33%) is water.

History
Fortville was originally called Walpole, and under the latter name was laid out and platted in 1849. It was named for Cephas Fort, the original owner of the town site. Fortville was incorporated as a town in 1865.

The historic Browne-Rafert House on Merrill Street was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,929 people, 1,553 households, and 1,060 families living in the town. The population density was 1318.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,705 housing units at an average density of 572.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.2% White, 1.3% Black, 0.3% Native American, 0.1% Asian, 0.9% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.3% of the population.

There were 1,553 households, of which 37.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 47.6% were married couples living together, 14.5% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.7% were non-families. 26.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% 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 3.03.

The median age in the town was 35.7 years. 28.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.4% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28.4% were from 25 to 44; 24.1% were from 45 to 64; and 11.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.6% male and 51.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,444 people, 1,394 households, and 950 families living in the town. The population density was 2,831.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,454 housing units at an average density of 1,195.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.14% White, 0.06% African American, 0.06% Native American, 0.17% Asian, 0.73% from other races, and 0.84% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.74% of the population.

There were 1,394 households, out of which 36.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.8% were non-families. 27.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.8% 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 3.03.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 27.8% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 33.0% from 25 to 44, 19.4% from 45 to 64, and 11.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females there were 91.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 85.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $42,642, and the median income for a family was $49,010. Males had a median income of $37,723 versus $25,951 for females. The per capita income for the town was $17,745. About 4.3% of families and 6.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.8% of those under age 18 and 8.4% of those age 65 or over.

Parks
Landmark Park is located at Staat Street and Veteran's Court, just east of Main Street.

The entrance to Memorial Park is located just west of Church and McCarty streets.

Education
The town houses schools for the Mt. Vernon Community Schools Corporation. The district houses three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. The schools regularly receive an "A+" score from the State of Indiana.

The town has a lending library, the Vernon Township Public Library.

Economy
Fortville's historic downtown is home to local retailers, restaurants, and service providers. The downtown is also an attraction for arts and culture.

title: Fortville, Indiana


text:
Greenfield, Indiana

Greenfield is a city in and the county seat of Hancock County, Indiana, United States It lies in Center Township and is part of the Indianapolis metropolitan area. The population was 23,488 at the 2020 census.

Greenfield was a stop along the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad that connected Pittsburgh to Chicago and St. Louis.

History
Hancock County was created on March 1, 1828, and named for John Hancock, the first person to sign the Declaration of Independence. The town of Greenfield was chosen as the county seat on April 11, 1828. The Commissioners announced, "The seat of Justice of Hancock County shall be known and designated by the name and title of Greenfield." The population of the county at that time was 400.

Early settlers built along the two creeks which flow south through Center Township, which includes Greenfield. The first businesses were small gristmills for grinding corn and wheat for settlers.

U.S. Route 40, the National Road, was built through Hancock County around 1835. It was heavily traveled by wagon trains going west and livestock going to Cincinnati. In 1853, the first steam railroad was completed by the Indiana Central Railroad at the south edge of Greenfield. The railroad became part of the Pennsylvania Railroad system and later the Penn-Central. These tracks were removed in the 1980s.

During this time, Greenfield's population continued to grow. Greenfield was incorporated as a city in 1876 with a population of 2,023. The greatest single period of growth began in 1887 when natural gas was discovered in the area. Greenfield was a boomtown for 20 years, with the founding of manufacturing plants and other industries.

A statue of James Whitcomb Riley, which stands in front of the Hancock County Courthouse, was erected in 1918. It was purchased with money donated by school children from all over the United States. Each year, during the Riley Festival in October, the city's school children parade to the statue to place flowers around it.

The Charles Barr House, Greenfield Courthouse Square Historic District, Greenfield Residential Historic District, Lilly Biological Laboratories, Lincoln Park School, and James Whitcomb Riley House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
Greenfield is located in central Hancock County. U.S. Route 40 passes through the center of the city as Main Street, and leads east 13 mi to Knightstown and west 21 mi to downtown Indianapolis. Interstate 70 parallels US-40, passing through the northern limits of Greenfield with access from Exit 104. I-70 leads east 50 mi to Richmond near the Ohio border and west through Indianapolis 99 mi to Terre Haute. Indiana State Road 9 (State Street) crosses US-40 in the center of Greenfield and leads north 15 mi to Pendleton and south 18 mi to Shelbyville.

According to the 2010 census, Greenfield has a total area of 12.662 sqmi, of which 12.55 sqmi (or 99.12%) is land and 0.112 sqmi (or 0.88%) is water.

Located on the east side of historic downtown lies Riley Park, in which flows the Brandywine Creek, a south-flowing tributary of the Big Blue River and part of the watershed of the East Fork White River.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 20,602 people, 7,983 households, and 5,382 families living in the city. The population density was 1641.6 PD/sqmi. There were 8,818 housing units at an average density of 702.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 96.6% White, 0.6% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.8% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 1.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.8% of the population.

There were 7,983 households, of which 36.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.2% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 32.6% were non-families. 26.8% 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 2.51 and the average family size was 3.04.

The median age in the city was 35.6 years. 26.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 28.7% were from 25 to 44; 23% were from 45 to 64; and 14% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.1% male and 51.9% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 14,600 people, 5,917 households, and 4,017 families living in the city. The population density was 1,818.0 PD/sqmi. There were 6,449 housing units at an average density of 803.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 98.23% White, 0.05% African American, 0.21% Native American, 0.53% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.33% from other races, and 0.64% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.27% of the population.

There were 5,917 households, out of which 32.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.4% were married couples living together, 10.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.1% were non-families. 27.4% 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 2.41 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 25.2% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 30.9% from 25 to 44, 21.0% from 45 to 64, and 14.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.6 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $72,035, and the median income for a family was $82,408. Males had a median income of $66,188 versus $56,568 for females. The per capita income for the city was $52,509. About 3.0% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.7% of those under age 18 and 6.2% of those age 65 or over.

Government
The government consists of a mayor and a city council. The mayor is elected in citywide vote. The city council consists of seven members. Five are elected from individual districts. Two are elected at-large.

Education
Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation services the city of Greenfield and surrounding areas in central Hancock County. It consists of four elementary schools (Grades K - 3), two intermediate schools (Grades 4 - 6), one junior high school (Grades 7 - 8), and one high school (Grades 9 - 12). Greenfield Central Jr. High School was built in the late 2000s to accommodate Greenfield's rapidly growing population. Greenfield-Central High School also underwent renovation in 2011 and 2022.

 * List of schools - Greenfield-Central Community School Corporation:
 * Eden Elementary School
 * Harris Elementary School
 * J.B. Stephens Elementary School
 * Weston Elementary School
 * Greenfield Intermediate School
 * Maxwell Intermediate School
 * Greenfield Central Jr. High School
 * Greenfield-Central High School

St. Michael's School also serves Greenfield, offering Pre-kindergarten through Grade 8. It is a private Catholic School that won the Blue Ribbon Award and has a student-teacher ration of 8:1.

Greenfield has a public library, a branch of the Hancock County Public Library.

Industry and commerce
Businesses with headquarters and/or significant operations in Greenfield include:
 * Avery Dennison: manufactures a variety of adhesive labels and adhesive backed films.
 * Covance: engaged in research, development, and testing of pharmaceutical products. This facility was operated by Eli Lilly and Company until 2008.
 * Cynthia's Hallmark Stores: operates four Hallmark retail stores in Central Indiana; the company's Greenfield location is the single largest in the U.S.
 * Elanco: manufactures animal health products for pets and farm animals, such as pet medicines and feed additives. Formerly a division of Eli Lilly and Company, the company's global headquarters facility is located in Greenfield.
 * Hancock Regional Hospital is a full-service community hospital with a focus on primary care, patient comfort, and convenience.
 * Hitachi Astemo: manufactures automotive components including intake manifolds, solenoid valves, and throttle bodies. Formerly Keihin IPT Manufacturing, LLC, the company's Greenfield plant is primarily a supplier to Honda Motor.
 * Indiana Automotive Fasteners: manufactures fasteners for automotive OEMs including Toyota, Ford and Honda.
 * Novelty, Inc.: Markets and distributes novelty items for convenience stores.
 * Stanley Black & Decker: manufacture[s] industrial fasteners, various types of steel fasteners and industrial applications equipment and will assemble pneumatic tools.
 * University Loft Company - Furniture Manufacturing Company and Wholesale Sales

Sister and friendship cities
Greenfield is currently in a sister city relationship with Kakuda, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Each year, a small group of high school students from Greenfield and Kakuda are chosen to travel to each sister city, respectively, and will stay with a host family for ten days, most expenses paid, thanks to local donations. The sister city program began in 1990 and continues today.

Notable people

 * Adelia Pope Branham (1861–1917), writer
 * Mark Dismore, Indy Racing League and Indianapolis 500 driver
 * Cameron Dodson (1988–2021), racing driver
 * Yogi Ferrell, former Indiana basketball player and current Budućnost player
 * Kyle Gibson, pitcher 22nd overall pick in 2009 Major League Baseball Draft
 * Henry C. Gooding, Indiana State Senator and Arizona Territorial Supreme Court Justice
 * Omer Stokes Jackson, 28th Indiana Attorney General
 * Jaycie Phelps, member of US Women's gold medalist 1996 Olympic gymnastic team
 * James Whitcomb Riley, poet and writer
 * Will Vawter, artist
 * Drey Jameson, Arizona Diamondbacks Pitcher, 34th overall pick in 2019 Major League Baseball draft

Events
Each year in October, the city of Greenfield hosts the Riley Festival, commonly known as "Riley Days." The intersection of State Road 9 and US 40 is closed, and the downtown courthouse square is filled with vendors and exhibitors.

Media

 * Radio Station WRGF 89.7 FM
 * Daily Reporter - daily newspaper

title: Greenfield, Indiana


text:
McCordsville, Indiana

McCordsville is a town in Vernon Township, Hancock County, Indiana, United States. The town is a fast-growing suburb of Indianapolis with an estimated population of 8,592 in 2020.

History
McCordsville was laid out and platted in 1865. It was named for one or more members of the McCord family.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, McCordsville has a total area of 4.71 sqmi, of which 4.7 sqmi (or 99.79%) is land and 0.01 sqmi (or 0.21%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 4,797 people, 1,653 households, and 1,322 families living in the town. The population density was 1020.6 PD/sqmi. There were 1,717 housing units at an average density of 365.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 83.2% White, 10.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, 2.3% Asian, 1.3% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.4% of the population.

There were 1,653 households, of which 50.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.5% were married couples living together, 10.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 20.0% were non-families. 15.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.90 and the average family size was 3.26.

The median age in the town was 32.7 years. 32.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.2% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 34.9% were from 25 to 44; 22.5% were from 45 to 64; and 5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.4% male and 51.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census in 2000, there were 1,134 people, 381 households, and 324 families living in the town. The population density was 354.0 PD/sqmi. There were 409 housing units at an average density of 127.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.00% White, 0.62% African American, 0.18% Native American, 0.62% from other races, and 1.59% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.15% of the population.

There were 381 households, out of which 45.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 75.6% were Married Couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 14.7% were non-families. 12.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.98 and the average family size was 3.25.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 30.5% under the age of 18, 5.5% from 18 to 24, 34.5% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 7.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 99.5 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $68,750, and the median income for a family was $77,000. Males had a median income of $52,450 versus $34,583 for females. The per capita income for the town was $30,250. None of the population or families were below the poverty line.

Education
The Geist Montessori Academy, a public charter school, is located in McCordsville. The Indiana public school system that serves the town is the Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation.

title: McCordsville, Indiana


text:
New Palestine, Indiana

New Palestine (pronounced PAL-es-tēn) is a town in Sugar Creek Township, Hancock County, Indiana, along Sugar Creek. The population was 2,055 at the 2010 census.

History
New Palestine was laid out October 1, 1838, by Jonathan Evans. It first consisted of fifteen blocks and thirty six lots. A petition for the incorporation of New Palestine as a town was dated May 22, 1871, and presented to the board of county commissioners at the June session of 1871. At the time of the petition, New Palestine had a population of around 669 people. The vote for incorporation was held on June 24, 1871. Many years after incorporation, the town had difficulty with its name. The post office was known as Sugar Creek, the railroad and express stations as Palestine and the name of the town itself was New Palestine. Through the efforts of E.F. Faut and Congressman Bynum, the name of the post office was changed from Sugar Creek to New Palestine on January 16, 1889, and the name of the railroad station and express office were also changed to New Palestine.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, New Palestine has a total area of 1.09 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 2,055 people, 779 households, and 587 families living in the town. The population density was 1885.3 PD/sqmi. There were 825 housing units at an average density of 756.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.8% White, 0.2% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.0% of the population.

There were 779 households, of which 41.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.2% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 24.6% were non-families. 20.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.64 and the average family size was 3.04.

The median age in the town was 37.2 years. 28.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.2% were from 25 to 44; 25.4% were from 45 to 64; and 12.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.8% male and 50.2% female.

2000 census
As of the 2000 census, there were 1,264 people, 469 households, and 364 families living in the town. The population density was 1,685.7 PD/sqmi. There were 500 housing units at an average density of 666.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.66% White, 0.08% African American, 0.24% Native American, 0.16% Asian, 0.16% from other races, and 0.71% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.32% of the population.

There were 469 households, out of which 42.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.0% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.2% were non-families. 20.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.7% 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 3.10.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 30.5% under the age of 18, 4.4% from 18 to 24, 35.4% from 25 to 44, 18.7% from 45 to 64, and 11.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 93.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $61,875, and the median income for a family was $71,667. Males had a median income of $50,156 versus $31,538 for females. The per capita income for the town was $27,821. About 1.7% of families and 2.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 1.0% of those under age 18 and 9.3% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture
New Palestine has a public library, a branch of the Hancock County Public Library.

Education
New Palestine is home to the Community School Corporation of Southern Hancock County, which includes three elementary schools (New Palestine, Sugar Creek, and Brandywine), one junior high school (New Palestine Junior High), one intermediate school (New Palestine Intermediate) and one high school (also referred to as New Palestine High School).

The area includes Brandywine and Sugar Creek townships and is approximately 60 sqmi in area. There are currently 3,206 students enrolled in the entire district. It is adjacent to Warren and Franklin township to its west and Shelby County to its south.

New Palestine High School is arguably the central hub of the town. Countless events occur year-round in the area, the most attended including football and basketball games, the beginning of the annual New Palestine Parade, and the annual Fall festival at the Lion's Club.

Notable people

 * Angela Ahrendts, former CEO of Burberry and Senior Vice President, Retail, Apple Inc.
 * Matt Canada, former offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers
 * William Henry Larrabee, MD, 1869-1960. Medical doctor and US House Representatives, 1931-1943.
 * Todd Yoder, former American football tight end and Super Bowl XXXVII Champion

title: New Palestine, Indiana


text:
Shirley, Indiana

Shirley is a town in Brown Township, Hancock County and Greensboro Township, Henry County, Indiana, United States. The population was 830 at the 2010 census.

History
Shirley had its start in the year 1890 when the Cincinnati, Wabash and Michigan Railway was extended to that point. It was named for Joseph A. Shirley, a railroad official.

Jane Ross Reeves Octagon House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

Geography
While most of Shirley is in Hancock County, Main Street is the county line and the smaller portion of Shirley is in Henry County.

According to the 2010 census, Shirley has a total area of 0.34 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 830 people, 328 households, and 225 families living in the town. The population density was 2441.2 PD/sqmi. There were 365 housing units at an average density of 1073.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.7% White, 0.6% African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.4% of the population.

There were 328 households, of which 40.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.3% were married couples living together, 14.0% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.2% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.4% were non-families. 27.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% 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 3.04.

The median age in the town was 35 years. 28.9% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 25.6% were from 25 to 44; 25.3% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 806 people, 320 households, and 224 families living in the town. The population density was 2,178.1 PD/sqmi. There were 339 housing units at an average density of 916.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.76% White, 0.12% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 0.62% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.37% of the population.

There were 320 households, out of which 30.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.1% were married couples living together, 9.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.0% were non-families. 26.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 3.04.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 25.3% under the age of 18, 10.8% from 18 to 24, 28.0% from 25 to 44, 19.9% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $37,000, and the median income for a family was $39,583. Males had a median income of $35,455 versus $22,692 for females. The per capita income for the town was $16,603. About 6.4% of families and 6.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.9% of those under age 18 and 11.7% of those age 65 or over.

title: Shirley, Indiana


text:
Spring Lake, Indiana

Spring Lake is a town in Sugar Creek Township, Hancock County, Indiana, United States, along Sugar Creek. The population was 218 at the 2010 census.

History
Spring Lake is centered on an artificial lake of the same name, which was completed in about 1885. Spring Lake was laid out as a town in 1912.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Spring Lake has a total area of 0.161 sqmi, of which 0.15 sqmi (or 93.17%) is land and 0.011 sqmi (or 6.83%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 218 people, 95 households, and 67 families living in the town. The population density was 1453.3 PD/sqmi. There were 98 housing units at an average density of 653.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.9% White, 0.5% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.5% from other races, and 2.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 95 households, of which 24.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.8% were married couples living together, 7.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 6.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 29.5% were non-families. 25.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.5% 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 2.73.

The median age in the town was 47 years. 16.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22% were from 25 to 44; 33.4% were from 45 to 64; and 20.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 52.8% male and 47.2% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 262 people, 107 households, and 87 families living in the town. The population density was 1,697.2 PD/sqmi. There were 108 housing units at an average density of 699.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.62% White, and 0.38% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.15% of the population.

There were 107 households, out of which 23.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.1% were married couples living together, 6.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 17.8% were non-families. 17.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.5% 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 2.72.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 19.5% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 25.2% from 25 to 44, 32.1% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 44 years. For every 100 females, there were 109.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 113.1 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $52,222, and the median income for a family was $56,250. Males had a median income of $40,750 versus $26,458 for females. The per capita income for the town was $24,468. About 3.3% of families and 2.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.8% of those under the age of eighteen and none of those 65 or over.

title: Spring Lake, Indiana


text:
Wilkinson, Indiana

Wilkinson is a town in Brown Township, Hancock County, Indiana, United States. The population was 449 at the 2010 census.

Located in the northeast corner of Hancock County, the town sits along Indiana State Road 109, which runs north to Anderson and south to I-70 and Knightstown. Wilkinson is about 30 miles east of Indianapolis, and about 12 miles northeast of Greenfield.

History
Wilkinson was platted in 1883 by Elnathan and Thomas B. Wilkinson. The Wilkinson post office was established in 1883.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Wilkinson has a total area of 0.23 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 449 people, 176 households, and 133 families living in the town. The population density was 1952.2 PD/sqmi. There were 197 housing units at an average density of 856.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.3% White and 0.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.0% of the population.

There were 176 households, of which 31.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.0% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.7% had a male householder with no wife present, and 24.4% were non-families. 19.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.55 and the average family size was 2.83.

The median age in the town was 39.7 years. 25.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.9% were from 25 to 44; 26.4% were from 45 to 64; and 14.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 51.7% male and 48.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 356 people, 153 households, and 104 families living in the town. The population density was 1,651.6 PD/sqmi. There were 165 housing units at an average density of 765.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.88% White, 0.56% from other races, and 0.56% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.84% of the population.

There were 153 households, out of which 32.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.2% were married couples living together, 5.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.0% were non-families. 26.8% 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 2.33 and the average family size was 2.83.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 22.5% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 31.2% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 14.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $48,750, and the median income for a family was $52,143. Males had a median income of $38,750 versus $25,500 for females. The per capita income for the town was $21,289. About 2.9% of families and 2.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including none of those under age 18 and 7.9% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people
World War I ace Harvey Weir Cook was born and raised in Wilkinson; Indianapolis International Airport's main terminal is named in Colonel H. Weir Cook's honor.

title: Wilkinson, Indiana


text:
Corydon, Indiana

Corydon is a town in Harrison Township and the county seat of Harrison County, Indiana, located north of the Ohio River in the extreme southern part of the state. Corydon was founded in 1808 and served as the capital of the Indiana Territory from 1813 to 1816. It was the site of Indiana's first constitutional convention, which was held June 10–29, 1816. Forty-three delegates convened to consider statehood for Indiana and drafted its first state constitution. Under Article XI, Section 11, of the Indiana 1816 constitution, Corydon was designated as the capital of the state, which it remained until 1825, when the seat of state government was moved to Indianapolis. In 1863, during the American Civil War, Corydon was the site of the Battle of Corydon, the only official pitched battle waged in Indiana during the war. More recently, the town's numerous historic sites have helped it become a tourist destination. A portion of its downtown area is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as the Corydon Historic District. As of the 2010 census, Corydon had a population of 3,122.

Early settlement

During the American Revolution, George Rogers Clark captured the surrounding area of what became the town of Corydon from the British, bringing it under the control of the fledgling United States government. The first American settlers entered Harrison County in 1792 and included the families of Harvey Heth and Squire Boone, who settled south of Corydon, and Dennis Pennington and the Harbisons, who settled east of Corydon. The region was in the midst of the Northwest Indian War during that period and the families were forced by Native Americans to leave the region and return to Kentucky. The families returned to the area in 1800 following the creation of the Indiana territory.

The territorial government completed the land survey of what would become Corydon in 1807, and the first official land purchases occurred in April of that year. In 1803, Edward Smith and his family became the first Americans to settle in what would become Corydon. Following the completion of the 1807 land survey, he purchased the tract of land he had already been living on; at that time his family were the only recorded inhabitants of the future site of the town. He purchased land at the edge of a fertile valley near a large spring, which is the site of the present-day Harrison County fairgrounds. William Henry Harrison, the first governor of the Indiana Territory and a future president of the United States, often stopped to rest at the Smith's home while travelling to and from Vincennes, the territorial capital.

In 1804 Harrison purchased a tract of land where Big Indian Creek and Little Indian Creek join to become Indian Creek and decided to build a town on the site. Harrison built a two-story home in the town, but sold it in 1809. The town gets its name from "The Pastoral Elegy," a hymn that celebrates the death of a shepherd named Corydon. Tradition says that Harrison asked Edward Smith's daughter, Jenny, to name the town and she chose the name from Harrison's favorite hymn, "The Pastoral Elegy."

Harrison sold the town site to Harvey Heth in 1807. Corydon's official founding date of 1808 commemorates the year when Heth, a U.S. government surveyor and landowner, platted the town. Heth donated the town square for public use and sold individual lots to settlers and the territorial government. When Harrison County was established in 1808, Corydon became its county seat of government. The town originally consisted of 185 lots. In 1809 Corydon was connected by road to Doup's Ferry, 15 mi to the south at Mauck's Port, providing access to the Ohio River for trade. The first county courthouse was built at the northwest corner of the town at the summit of High Street.

Corydon quickly grew into one of the most important early settlements in Indiana, in large part due to the political successes of its early inhabitants and as one of the main stops on the only land route to the territorial capital of Vincennes. During the War of 1812, Corydon sent a mounted militia company nicknamed the Yellow Jackets to support the territorial army. The company fought in the Battle of Tippecanoe, where it suffered more casualties than any other unit.

Territorial capital (1813–1816)

Corydon became the second capital of the Indiana Territory on May 1, 1813, when it was relocated from Vincennes in Knox County. Opponents of William Henry Harrison, the former territorial governor, wanted to move the capital away from his political stronghold in Knox County. Supporters of the move felt that relocation of the territorial capital to the east would provide a more centralized location for its citizens, especially after its western portion was reorganized to form the Illinois Territory in 1809.

Corydon competed with Charlestown, Clarksville, Lawrenceburg, Madison, and Jeffersonville to become the new territorial capital. Dennis Pennington, a Harrison County representative and the speaker of the territorial legislature's lower house, helped secure the town's selection during the 1813 session of the Indiana Territory's general assembly. Pennington pointed out that Corydon would be an ideal location. The Harrison County court had approved a design for a new county courthouse on Corydon's public square in 1811 and it could be used as an assembly building for the territorial legislature. Pennington supervised construction of the limestone courthouse, which was nearly completed when Indiana's first state legislature convened at Corydon in 1816. Prior to 1816, the territorial legislature met in the original county courthouse on High Street.

Paul and Susannah Mitchem became Quakers and immigrated to Harrison County from North Carolina in 1814, bringing with them 107 slaves whom they freed after arriving. Most of the former slaves then settled around the town of Corydon. Although some of the former slaves left, the group became one of the largest communities of free blacks in the state.

Constitutional convention, 1816
On April 19, 1816, President James Madison signed an Enabling Act that provided for the election of delegates to a convention at Corydon to consider statehood for Indiana. Forty-three delegates, including five men from Harrison County, convened June 10–29, 1816, to draft Indiana's first state constitution. The preamble of the constitution acknowledges the site of the historic gathering: "We the Representatives of the people of the Territory of Indiana, in Convention met, at Corydon, on Monday the tenth day of June in the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and sixteen,..."

The delegates met in an unfinished log cabin near the Harrison County courthouse, which had not yet been completed; due to cramped conditions and the summer heat, the men often sought refuge outside under a giant elm tree, later named the Constitution Elm. Although the tree was lost to Dutch Elm Disease in 1825, a portion of its trunk has been preserved, surrounded by a sandstone memorial built by the WPA during the Great Depression in the 1930s. The delegates completed their work in nineteen days, adjourning on June 29, 1816, when the newly signed state constitution went into effect. As outlined in Article XI, Section 11, of the constitution of 1816: "Corydon, in Harrison County shall be the seat of Government of the state of Indiana, until the year eighteen hundred and twenty-five, and until removed by law."

Corydon's selection as the capital led to rapid growth of the town and a housing shortage. There were only three taverns for visitor lodging in 1813. A fourth and much larger tavern, the Kintner House Tavern, opened in 1819. Many officials, including three successive Governors, and their staff moved to Corydon and built large homes in the town. The town hosted meetings from national officials, including an 1819 visit by United States President James Monroe and Andrew Jackson.

State capital (1816–1825)
On November 4, 1816, the Indiana General Assembly met for the first time at Corydon under the new constitution and state government. President James Madison signed the congressional resolution admitting Indiana as the nineteenth state in the Union on December 11, 1816, and Corydon began a new era as the first state capital of Indiana.

The Harrison County courthouse, now known as the Old Capitol, served as Indiana's first state capitol building. It housed state government offices from 1816 until 1825. Several other historic structures in Corydon date from the early statehood era, including the Governor's Mansion and the Old Treasury Building (Indiana's first state office building), which were built in 1817, and the Colonel Thomas Lloyd Posey home, among others. Corydon's Grand Masonic Lodge, the first in the state, was built in 1819.

During the years Corydon served as a territorial and state capital, it was home to a number of politicians; notable residents during this time included Davis Floyd, a prominent local politician; two governors of Indiana, Jonathan Jennings and Ratliff Boon (the state's first and second governors, respectively); Dennis Pennington, the first Speaker of the Indiana Senate; and William Hendricks, Indiana's first U. S. Representative, its third governor, and a U.S. Senator.

The state constitution's provision making Corydon the seat of state government was not a popular one, especially among the citizens of rival towns. Others expressed concern that the town's geographic location in the extreme southern part of Indiana would become inconvenient as the state's population center shifted northward; however, Dennis Pennington and other Harrison County representatives to the Indiana General Assembly successfully resisted attempts to move the seat of government from Corydon until 1825. Governor Hendricks signed a legislative bill in 1824 to move the state capital to Indianapolis, effective January 10, 1825.

Post-capital period
After the seat of state government moved to Indianapolis in 1825, Corydon continued its role as the seat of county government and a market town for the surrounding agricultural area. In 1826 a new County Clerk's office was constructed which remained the principal county office until 1848. During the early days of the town, Big Indian Creek and Little Indian Creek were both used for drinking water, bathing, and sewage, which resulted in a cholera outbreak in 1832. Following the outbreak, the town only used the creeks for bathing and multiple wells were dug for drinking water. In 1836, the town began spreading gravel on the roads, which had been dirt roads before.

During 1848, a new two-story federal style brick office building was constructed on the east side of the county courthouse. This second office building remained in use until 1881. On September 11–14, 1860, the first annual county fair was held on Corydon's 36 acre fairgrounds. It has been an annual event since 1860, making it the longest consecutive-running annual county fair in the state. The fairgrounds, established in the southwest corner of town, are bordered on the south and west by a large ridge that served as a natural grandstand until the first grandstand was built, circa 1910.

Battle of Corydon (1863)

During the Civil War, Corydon was the site of the only "official pitched battle" fought in Indiana. On July 9, 1863, Confederate brigadier general John Hunt Morgan's cavalry of more than 2,000 men crossed the Ohio River into Indiana to begin what is known as "Morgan's Raid". The Confederate troops opposed about 450 members of a hastily assembled home guard at the Battle of Corydon outside of town, but the Union forces were quickly defeated and the town surrendered.

Corydon was sacked in retaliation for Union looting in Kentucky, the town's treasury of $690 was seized, and the inmates of the local jail were released. General Morgan demanded $600 to $700 in ransom from each mill and shop owner to keep their buildings from being burned. Tradition says one Corydon miller overpaid by $200; Morgan promptly returned it to him.

Post-Civil War Period

In 1871 local journalists began to bring the condition of the first Indiana statehouse to public attention. The building had become filthy and infested with fleas and other pests such that many people refused to enter it. Their campaign proved successful, and in 1873 the building was given a major renovation. The walls and ceilings were replastered, a new staircase and furnishings were installed, and the building was thoroughly cleaned.

In 1881 the county began construction of its third office building after demolishing the prior building. The building was completed in June 1882 and remained in use until 1929. The state of Indiana purchased the 1816 courthouse to preserve as a state historic site following the move. Beginning in 1882, the Louisville, New Albany and Corydon Railroad, an 8 mi spur of the Southern Railway, connected Corydon to other towns in the region. Southern Railroad's main line ran across northern Harrison County at Crandall, and remained open to passenger traffic until 1996. As of 2008, the line was owned by Lucas Oil. A major fire broke out in 1871, in which the Kintner House Tavern was destroyed, along with the entire block from Cherry to Beaver Streets. The county jail also burned in the blaze. A second major fire broke out in Corydon on April 20, 1883, in the west end of Corydon; seven businesses, stables, and multiple homes were destroyed. The fire would have spread further, but it slowed as it spread through a lumber yard containing only freshly cut timber that did not burn easily. This allowed the townspeople to get the upper hand and extinguish the fire, but most of the western portion of the town was burned. It was not until 1922 that all the lots were rebuilt.

In 1889 an attempted murder in Corydon resulted in a lynching. A mob of 150 mounted men, led by twenty masked Indiana white cap vigilantes, arrived at the county jail and demanded the release into their custody of two men (James Devin and Charles Tennyson) being held on charges of attempted murder. The leaders of the group demanded the keys to the jail, threatening to burn down the town if they were refused; after the sheriff refused to hand over the keys, the mob used hammers to knock down the jail doors and removed the two alleged assailants. The two men were dragged to the old Western Bridge, where they were hanged.

In 1917 the state of Indiana purchased the historic capitol building with the goal of restoring it. The Federal-style building opened as a state memorial in 1929–30; it is a part of the Corydon Capitol State Historic Site. The Harrison County government also used the former statehouse until a new, three-story county courthouse was completed in 1929, located on the north side of the original 1816 courthouse.

In 1960 a fire destroyed much of the Harrison County Fairgrounds, including its grandstand. A replacement grandstand was acquired from the minor league baseball team at Parkway Field in Louisville, Kentucky, is still in use.

In 1969 Corydon-born environmental historian Samuel P. Hays donated the 311 acre Hayswood Nature Reserve to the county. Known as Hayswood Park, it is the county's second largest nature reserve.

In 1973 a portion of Corydon's downtown area was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Corydon Historic District. Initially, the district included major sites dating from the period when Corydon was a territorial and state capital: the Old Capitol/Harrison County Courthouse building, the Governor Hendricks' Headquarters, Constitution Elm, the first state office building, the Kintner-McGrain House (Cedar Glade), and the Posey House, among others. In 1989 the historic district's boundary was increased to include The Kintner House Inn, among other commercial and residential buildings.

In 2008 Corydon celebrated its bicentennial anniversary with a year-long series of events that included the unveiling of a $200,000 bronze statue of Honorable Frank O'Bannon, the late governor of Indiana and a former citizen of Corydon.

A local attraction in Corydon was Butt Drugs, a drugstore known for its unique name, service, and merchandise. The store opened in 1952 and closed in 2023.

Government
Corydon remains the county seat of Harrison County.

Geography
Corydon is located near the center of Harrison County. Indiana State Road 62 passes through the town from east to west; Interstate 64 passes in the same direction less than a mile north of the town. The state capitol of Indianapolis is about 120 mi to the north, and the city of Louisville, Kentucky is about 25 mi to the east. Indian Creek passes through the town; the creek continues to the southwest where it empties into the Ohio River.

According to the 2010 census, Corydon has a total area of 1.65 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,122 people, 1,341 households, and 716 families residing in the town. The population density was 1892.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,491 housing units at an average density of 903.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.7% White, 0.7% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.9% from other races, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.6% of the population.

There were 1,341 households, of which 26.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 35.6% were married couples living together, 11.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 46.6% were non-families. 41.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 20.5% 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 2.88.

The median age in the town was 40.8 years. 20.5% 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; 22.4% were from 45 to 64; and 23.4% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 45.6% male and 54.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,715 people, 1,171 households, and 674 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,708.1 PD/sqmi. There were 1,271 housing units at an average density of 799.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.27% White, 1.14% African American, 0.41% Native American, 0.11% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.85% from other races, and 0.18% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.88% of the population.

There were 1,171 households, out of which 25.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 40.4% were married couples living together, 13.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 42.4% were non-families. 37.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 19.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.17 and the average family size was 2.81.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.1% under the age of 18, 10.2% from 18 to 24, 24.3% from 25 to 44, 20.7% from 45 to 64, and 24.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $33,823, and the median income for a family was $41,630. Males had a median income of $29,159 versus $21,699 for females. The per capita income for the town was $20,740. About 9.8% of families and 10.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.2% of those under age 18 and 14.3% of those age 65 or over.

Education
It is located within the South Harrison Community Schools school district.

Corydon has a public library, a branch of the Harrison County Public Library.

Arts and culture
Because of its historic sites and the historic events that took place at Corydon, it has become a southern Indiana tourist destination. The town hosts weekly events from early spring until late fall, usually centered on its historic town square. Local events include an annual Halloween Parade, the Harrison County Fair, Friday night band concerts during the summer, and an annual reenactment of the Battle of Corydon, as well as country and bluegrass music performances. A weeklong county fair is held the third week of June at the Harrison County fairgrounds. It is one of Corydon's more popular events, with attendance usually exceeding 3,000 each night. The fair includes 4-H exhibits, a midway, demolition derbies, harness racing, and musical entertainment.

Historic sites

 * Old Capitol, Indiana's first state capitol building
 * Governor Hendricks' Headquarters, a former residence of William Hendricks
 * Constitution Elm Memorial
 * Old Treasury Building, Indiana's first state office building
 * Coburn-Porter Law Office, the former law office of Judge William Porter, who served as a speaker of the Indiana House of Representatives
 * Posey House
 * Battle of Corydon Memorial Park
 * The Kintner House Inn
 * Branham Tavern, built in 1800, a tavern began operating on the site in 1809.
 * Westfall House, the town's oldest extant home
 * Kintner-McGrain House (Cedar Glade)]
 * Leora Brown School
 * Heth House
 * Cedar Hill Cemetery
 * Flags Over Corydon
 * Harrison County Fairgrounds

Media
The Corydon Democrat, a weekly newspaper, has served the local area since 1856. It was the property of O'Bannon Publishing Company from 1907 to 2022. On June 30, 2022, O'Bannon Publishing sold the paper to Paxton Media Group.

Transportation
Southern Indiana Transit System provides deviated fixed-route and demand-response bus service in the town.

Notable people

 * James Best, actor known as Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on The Dukes of Hazzard
 * Arville Funk, attorney and local historian
 * Samuel P. Hays, academic and specialist on the U.S. conservation movement
 * Foster C. LaHue, member of the Marine Corps who served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam
 * Erin Moran, television actress known for Happy Days and Joanie Loves Chachi
 * James N. Morgan, economist who launched the Panel Study of Income Dynamics in 1968
 * Frank O'Bannon, 46th Lieutenant Governor of Indiana and 47th Governor of Indiana
 * Spier Spencer, sheriff who fought in the Battle of Tippecanoe and was killed in action on November 7, 1811
 * William T. Zenor, attorney, judge, and member of the United States House of Representatives

title: Corydon, Indiana


text:
Crandall, Indiana

Crandall is a town in Jackson Township, Harrison County, Indiana, United States. The population was 152 at the 2010 census.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Crandall has a total area of 0.1 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 152 people, 66 households, and 43 families residing in the town. The population density was 1520.0 PD/sqmi. There were 73 housing units at an average density of 730.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.0% White, 1.3% Native American, and 0.7% Asian. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.6% of the population.

There were 66 households, of which 30.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.5% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, 7.6% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.8% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.6% 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 2.70.

The median age in the town was 45.5 years. 25% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 19.7% were from 25 to 44; 32.9% were from 45 to 64; and 17.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.0% male and 50.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 131 people, 56 households, and 38 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,276.6 PD/sqmi. There were 62 housing units at an average density of 604.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.24% White, and 0.76% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.76% of the population.

There were 56 households, out of which 26.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.4% were married couples living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.1% were non-families. 32.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 19.8% under the age of 18, 8.4% from 18 to 24, 26.0% from 25 to 44, 29.0% from 45 to 64, and 16.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $33,333, and the median income for a family was $41,250. Males had a median income of $31,875 versus $17,292 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,224. There were 7.5% of families and 9.6% of the population living below the poverty line, including 8.0% of under eighteens and 23.8% of those over 64.

Etymology
The name Crandall is derived from its founder Cornelius F. Crandall. It is often pronounced with the d belonging to the first syllable (e.g. Crand•all). The first syllable has a soft 'a'. The second syllable is stressed with a soft 'a' and a long 'l'.

Founding
Crandall was laid out in 1872 by its namesake, Cornelius F. Crandall. Cornelius persuaded the builders of the Southern Railway (US) to move the planned route for their line through the area from its original surveyed path north of the present day State Highway 64 to its present path through the town of Crandall. Cornelius later moved to Texas where he founded Crandall, Texas

The Great Fire
In 1921 there was a great fire that destroyed a store and warehouse, the post office, and several houses on the east side of town; eleven buildings were destroyed in all. The town sprang back from the destruction, and by 1936 Al Gerdon of the Corydon Democrat writes of the businessmen of Crandall. He tells of an insurance salesman, the Crandall branch of the Harrison County Bank, the feed store, two general stores, the main office for the Harrison County Farm Bureau Corporation, Incorporated, and the well-known fox chasing conventions consisted of about seventy-five dogs that would chase the foxes on the outskirts of town.

Early years
During the 1930s Crandall became known for its saw mill and hatcheries that used the train to ship the baby chicks. Clarence A. Sims, the owner of the Thornwood Poultry Yards, introduced the world's largest incubator at that time. It was fifty-eight by ten feet and took a carload of eggs to fill its 315,000-egg capacity that enabled the hatchery to set 105,000 eggs every week. Sixteen breeds of chickens were hatched and delivered to "every state east of the Rocky Mountains." In June 1953 the passenger service ended thus leaving a freight line as the only rail service between Louisville and St. Louis.

title: Crandall, Indiana


text:
Elizabeth, Indiana

Elizabeth is a town in Posey Township, Harrison County, Indiana, United States. The population was 162 at the 2010 census.

History
The original plat of the town of Elizabeth was recorded on April 17, 1812. It was witnessed by Sheriff John Tipton. The land for the town was donated by Capt. Jacob Zenor and wife Suzannah Muchendorffer Zenor. The town is named after Jacob's daughter-in-law Elizabeth Lemmon Zenor wife of George Zenor.

Rose Hill Cemetery, the second largest cemetery in the county, is located on the west side of the town. The land for the cemetery was donated by Jacob Zenor and wife, with the only rule being that burial be made available regardless of the religious denomination of the deceased.

The town fire department was first organized by the town on December 29, 1959. The first fire engine was purchased in Corydon. It was a 1941 International Fire Truck, purchased for $200.

The first school in Elizabeth was a single room log cabin around 1833. Around 1890 seminary education first became available at Clay Hill College in downtown Elizabeth. The college was later moved and the high school eventually took over that building around 1908. The first graduation was held on April 13, 1912. The high school burned down in 1935. In 1936 Posey Township completed construction of a new brick school building. The building is still in use today, owned and operated by a local civic non-profit organization. The town's school children now attend South Central High School, which serves the entire south-eastern portion of Harrison County.

Geography
Elizabeth is located at 38.12417°N, -85.97361°W (38.124158, -85.973711). According to the 2010 census, Elizabeth has a total area of 0.17 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, Elizabeth has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

Government
The Town of Elizabeth is governed by a three-member Town Council. Members elected in the 2015 Election were Alan Worral, Chris Fetz, and Mike Sampson. The current Clerk-Treasurer is Hugh Burns. He was elected in 2011 and reelected in 2015 and 2019.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 162 people, 62 households, and 44 families living in the town. The population density was 952.9 PD/sqmi. There were 73 housing units at an average density of 429.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.3% White, 1.2% African American, 0.6% Native American, 1.2% from other races, and 0.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.2% of the population.

There were 62 households, of which 37.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.2% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 8.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 29.0% were non-families. 24.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.5% 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 3.16.

The median age in the town was 33.9 years. 27.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 27.8% were from 25 to 44; 18.5% were from 45 to 64; and 19.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.4% male and 50.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 137 people, 53 households, and 36 families living in the town. The population density was 997.1 PD/sqmi. There were 59 housing units at an average density of 429.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.54% White, 0.73% from other races, and 0.73% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.73% of the population.

There were 53 households, of which 32.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.6% were married couples living together, 11.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were non-families. 26.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 18.9% 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 3.16.

The age distribution of the town was 27.0% under 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 26.3% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 17.5% 65 or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 80.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 75.4 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $31,563, and the median income for a family was $38,250. Males had a median income of $23,523 versus $19,063 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,208. There were 8.6% of families and 10.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including no under eighteens and 31.1% of those over 64.

Education
Elizabeth has a public library, a branch of the Harrison County Public Library.

title: Elizabeth, Indiana


text:
Laconia, Indiana

Laconia is a town in Boone Township, Harrison County, Indiana, United States. The population was 50 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Laconia is located at 38.03222°N, -86.08528°W (38.032174, -86.085271).

According to the 2010 census, Laconia has a total area of 0.05 sqmi, all land.

History
Laconia is a small farming community and was platted in 1816 by John Boone. The Boone family, prominent in the settlement of southern Harrison County, owned large tracts of land throughout the township which bears their name. The original town, consisting of 64 lots, was laid out on property of four owners: William Smith, William Winigar, William Williams, and William Madden Sr.

Because Laconia was the only town of any size in Boone Township, the settlement became the commercial center of the area. Laconia was the distribution center for mail and was served by the L&N Railroad, which ran on the Kentucky side of the Ohio River.

Because of the proximity of an ample supply of lumber, the Elbert Brothers established a furniture factory near Laconia in 1868. The business burned in 1880 and was never rebuilt. Just south of town, John Ashton had a lumber mill which provided materials for many of Laconia's structures.

Laconia at one time boasted three general stores, one on each corner of the town square, three hotels, several millinery stores, two doctors, a funeral parlor, and a saloon. The Laconia General Store, built in 1927, is the only remaining commercial building operating on the square.

Laconia is the home of an Odd Fellows Club first organized on May 20, 1875.

Two churches were established in Laconia. The Laconia Presbyterian Church was organized in 1874 and met in the town hall and private homes until 1880, when the present church was built on Cross St. The Laconia Methodist Church was organized in 1842, and closed in 2017. The minister traveled from Mauckport, about seven miles to the southwest, to conduct services. The present church was built in 1874 on Main St.

In March 1932, fire destroyed the frame two-story school known as Clay Hill College, and a new school was built of brick in 1932–1933 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Upon consolidation of the Harrison County Schools, the building was vacated in 1985. The late Bill Cook restored the structure and it now serves as a community center and apartments.

Another notable building in Laconia is on Main St, the Hurst House built in the Greek Revival style by Dr. Hurst in 1869.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 50 people, 21 households, and 15 families living in the town. The population density was 1000.0 PD/sqmi. There were 25 housing units at an average density of 500.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.0% White and 2.0% Asian.

There were 21 households, of which 23.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.9% were married couples living together, 9.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.6% were non-families. 19.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 4.8% 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 2.73.

The median age in the town was 41 years. 16% of residents were under the age of 18; 16% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 22% were from 25 to 44; 40% were from 45 to 64; and 6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.0% male and 52.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 29 people, 14 households, and 6 families living in the town. The population density was 583.2 PD/sqmi. There were 18 housing units at an average density of 362.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 100.00% White.

There were 14 households, out of which 21.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 28.6% were married couples living together, 14.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 57.1% were non-families. 57.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 35.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.07 and the average family size was 3.50.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 27.6% under the age of 18, 3.4% from 18 to 24, 24.1% from 25 to 44, 27.6% from 45 to 64, and 17.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 45.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 40.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $16,667, and the median income for a family was $17,083. Males had a median income of $23,750 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the town was $9,779. There were 60.0% of families and 50.0% of the population living below the poverty line, including 81.8% of under eighteens and none of those over 64.

Notable people

 * Pinky May, Philadelphia Phillies third baseman
 * Gary Timberlake, Seattle Pilots pitcher

title: Laconia, Indiana


text:
Lanesville, Indiana

Lanesville is a town in Franklin Township, Harrison County, Indiana, United States. The population was 935 at the 2010 census.

History
The first permanent settlement was made at Lanesville about 1800. Lanesville was platted in 1817, and named for one Mr. Lane, the government official who surveyed the town site.

The Lanesville post office was established in 1832.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Lanesville has a total area of 0.52 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 564 people, 241 households, and 157 families living in the town. The population density was 1084.6 PD/sqmi. There were 280 housing units at an average density of 538.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.2% White, 0.4% African American, 0.2% Asian, 0.7% from other races, and 0.5% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.9% of the population.

There were 241 households, of which 33.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.5% were married couples living together, 13.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.4% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.9% were non-families. 29.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.87.

The median age in the town was 40.9 years. 24.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.8% were from 25 to 44; 27.9% were from 45 to 64; and 16.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.4% male and 51.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 614 people, 249 households, and 184 families living in the town. The population density was 1,527.5 PD/sqmi. There were 259 housing units at an average density of 644.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.53% White, 0.49% Asian, and 0.98% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.49% of the population.

There were 249 households, out of which 34.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.0% were married couples living together, 12.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.1% were non-families. 25.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.2% 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 2.98.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.1% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 27.4% from 25 to 42, 25.2% from 45 to 64, and 11.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $54,219, and the median income for a family was $57,031. Males had a median income of $36,875 versus $23,214 for females. The per capita income for the town was $18,914. About 2.6% of families and 2.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 0.5% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.

Education

 * Lanesville Junior Senior High School
 * Lanesville Elementary School
 * St. John Lutheran School

Lanesville has a public library, a branch of the Harrison County Public Library.

Culture
The town has a popular yearly festival called the Lanesville Heritage Weekend.

Notable people

 * Walter Q. Gresham - Postmaster General, Court of Appeals judge, two-time candidate for Republican presidential nomination, Secretary of State, and Secretary of the Treasury.
 * Charlie Reising - Major League Baseball outfielder for the 1884 Indianapolis Hoosiers.
 * Steve Stemle - Major League Baseball pitcher.

title: Lanesville, Indiana