text:
Hebron, Indiana

Hebron is a town in Boone Township, Porter County, Indiana, United States. The population was 3,724 at the 2010 census.

History
The first settler to Hebron was Judge Jesse Johnson (1st Judge of the Porter County Probate Court. The area of Hebron was an open prairie interspersed with small groves of trees.  The prairie was  about 2.5 mi long by 0.75 mi wide.  About 0.5 mi south was the Potawatomi village of Hauakiki.  Locally the village was called "Indian Town."

The area chosen for settlement was referred to as "The Corners" as this was where two roads crossed. Hebron was laid out in 1841. The first homes were of log construction. In 1849, Mr. McCune built the "Tavern" as the first frame structure. The tavern continued in use as a tavern until 1936. In 1838, a Rev. Hannan organized the Bethlehem Church of Associate Reform Presbyterians. Later the church changed its name from "Bethlehem" to "Hebron." In 1845, Rev. Blain of the Hebron Church of Associate Reform Presbyterians petitioned for a post office named after his church. The post office was established that year and the town got its name.

In 1849, 1852, 1855, and 1864 lots were laid out to the west and south of "The Corners." It took the construction of the Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railroad in 1863 to open the town to growth. Completed just to support the Union effort during the American Civil War, the railroad spurred growth after the war ended. Hebron became a gateway to the rich hunting grounds of the Grand Kankakee Marsh.

The community was granted status as a "Town" on March 5, 1890. The advent of the draining of the Grand Kankakee Marsh in 1890 increased the traffic and the population of the entire area. Another spurt of growth occurred from 1900-1912 when the Hebron Opera House was built. By 1936, three passenger trains a day passed through Hebron headed for Chicago, making access to world markets possible.

The Eli Sigler House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Hebron has a total area of 1.98 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 3,724 people, 1,449 households, and 990 families living in the town. The population density was 1880.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,539 housing units at an average density of 777.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 95.9% White, 1.1% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.0025% Canadian, 0.9% from other races, and 1.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.1% of the population.

There were 1,449 households, of which 37.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.6% were married couples living together, 12.8% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 31.7% were non-families. 27.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.15.

The median age in the town was 33.6 years. 27.4% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.5% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 30% were from 25 to 44; 23.3% were from 45 to 64; and 10.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.3% male and 51.7% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,596 people, 1,410 households, and 984 families living in the town. The population density was 2,321.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,456 housing units at an average density of 940.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.38% White, 0.28% African American, 0.11% Native American, 0.28% Asian, 1.28% from other races, and 1.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.12% of the population.

There were 1,410 households, out of which 38.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.4% were married couples living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 30.2% were non-families. 27.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% 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 3.12.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 29.0% under the age of 18, 9.8% from 18 to 24, 29.7% from 25 to 44, 19.3% from 45 to 64, and 12.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.6 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $42,103, and the median income for a family was $52,036. Males had a median income of $46,865 versus $21,855 for females. The per capita income for the town was $18,119. About 3.4% of families and 4.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.7% of those under age 18 and 3.9% of those age 65 or over.

Education
There are three public schools in Hebron: Hebron High School, Hebron Middle School, and Hebron Elementary School. Jeff Brooks is the superintendent of the Metropolitan School District of Boone Township. Hebron Christian Academy is also in the community.

Hebron has a branch of the Porter County Public Library System.

Notable people

 * Johnny Mantz - Indy car driver
 * Chris Wallace (musician) - Singer

title: Hebron, Indiana


text:
Kouts, Indiana

Kouts is a town in Pleasant Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 2,028 at the 2020 census. Since 2010, Kouts has had a population growth of 7.90 percent.

History

Bernhardt Kautz moved here from Pennsylvania, before the arrival of the railroads, and established a farm where the town now sits. With the arrival of the Chicago and St. Louis Railway in 1865, Kautz and his brother-in-law H.A. Wright laid out the town and established a store. Known as Kouts Station, the town grew slowly until the Chicago and Erie Railroad intersected the line in Kouts. Soon, Kouts became the social and economic center of the township.

Railroads
Kouts would remain an important railroad town throughout the first half of the 20th century continuing to be served by the Erie Lackawanna Railway and the Pennsylvania Railroad. Railroad traffic in the town began to decline following the bankruptcy of the Pennsylvania Railroad's successor, the Penn Central and the creation of Conrail. As the also bankrupt Erie Lackawanna would similarly be absorbed into the new company in 1976. The surplus of Conrail track through Kouts would lead to a decline in both traffic and profitability. The passage of the Staggers Rail Act of 1980 allowed for U.S railways to abandon unprofitable lines, which Conrail would take advantage of in Kouts. First with the Erie Lackawanna tracks in 1981 and then the Pennsylvania tracks in 1984. Currently there are little remnants of Kouts railroading past except for the former Pennsylvania Railroad depot which has been converted into a private business.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Kouts has a total area of 1.12 sqmi, all land.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,698 people, 678 households, and 499 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,522.0 PD/sqmi. There were 720 housing units at an average density of 645.4/sq mi (248.2/km2). The racial makeup of the town was 99.00% White, 0.12% Asian, 0.65% from other races, and 0.24% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.24% of the population.

There were 678 households, out of which 34.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 60.5% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.4% were non-families. 23.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.50 and the average family size was 2.94.

In the town the population was spread out, with 24.9% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 31.2% from 25 to 44, 21.7% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $44,850, and the median income for a family was $50,819. Males had a median income of $42,315 versus $25,313 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,239. About 1.7% of families and 3.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.3% of those under age 18 and 3.4% of those age 65 or over.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,879 people, 719 households, and 524 families residing in the town. The population density was 1677.7 PD/sqmi. There were 753 housing units at an average density of 672.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 97.6% White, 0.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.2% from other races, and 1.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.1% of the population.

There were 719 households, of which 37.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.2% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.1% had a male householder with no wife present, and 27.1% were non-families. 22.9% 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 2.61 and the average family size was 3.09.

The median age in the town was 35.5 years. 27.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 32.2% were from 25 to 44; 21% were from 45 to 64; and 13.6% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 48.2% male and 51.8% female.

Education
Kouts is served by the East Porter County School Corporation. It has one school which is K-12. Kouts is also home to the East Porter County School Corporation's central administration office which oversees the operation of four other public schools in Porter County. Kouts schools spend an average of $4,027 per student. The average school expenditure in the U.S. is $5,678. There are about 18.7 students per teacher.

Kouts has a public library, a branch of the Porter County Public Library System.

Transportation

 * State Route 8 goes west to Hebron and east through LaCrosse to Marshall County.
 * State Route 49 goes north past Valparaiso to end at the Indiana Dunes State Park on Lake Michigan and south to State Route 14 in central Jasper County.

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

title: Kouts, Indiana


text:
Ogden Dunes, Indiana

Ogden Dunes is a town in Portage Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. It is located on the shore of Lake Michigan, within Indiana Dunes National Park and nearly surrounded by the city of Portage. The population was 1,110 at the 2010 census. It is named for multi-millionaire Francis A. Ogden, who owned the land there before his death in 1914. His main interest in the land where the dunes are was the sand which could be scooped up and sold, with more sand being replenished naturally over time.

Many residents of Ogden Dunes helped preserve parts of the Indiana Dunes.

The town is the site of the Portage / Ogden Dunes station, which is served by South Shore Line passenger trains to and from Chicago. The principal thoroughfare serving the town is U.S. Route 12, which passes along the town's southern edge and connects it to nearby communities such as Gary to the west and Burns Harbor to the east.

Ogden Dunes has been reported as having the highest rate of Lyme disease in Indiana.

History
Samuel Reck purchased the land from the estate of Francis Ogden in 1923. The town was platted a year later. The town had 50 residents in 1930. By the 1950s, there were almost 800 residents and 1,000 in 1991. The town was incorporated in 1925 to establish long term right of way across the New York Central Railroad tracks. The developers planned to create a resort community with a golf course, clubhouse and hotel. As development lagged, plans were dropped. Sand roads served the community until cinders placed on main street in 1931.

In the later 1920s Ogden Dunes was noted for having the largest ski jump in the country. International skiing competitions were held on this 30-story high, 500-foot long slide until it was dismantled in 1932. In 1927, the Grand Beach Ski Club, later the Ogden Dunes Ski Club, bought a piece of land on one of the high dunes in the town. They constructed a 192 ft-tall ski jump. The first meet was held on January 22, 1928. For the next four years, meets were held in Ogden Dunes. The longest jump ever reported on this structure was 195 feet. In 1932, the Norwegian Olympic Team of Birger Rund, Hans Beck, and Kaare Wahlberg (gold, silver, and bronze medalists) came to Ogden Dunes to try the tower. During the Great Depression the Ski Club had financial setbacks; combined with little snow, the club looked to sell the tower.
 * In 1935, a ski club in Rockford, Illinois, purchased the tower and moved it that summer. The Rockford Ski Club built ski jump at along the Kishwaukee River (Rockford Rotary County Forest Preserve) near the end 1920's. It was expanded in 1936 by adding the steel inrun tower from Ogden Dunes.
 * Moving the tower was repeated a third time in 1955 when the tower was moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin and erected at Hendrickson Hill along the Chippewa River in what is now the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire Campus. In 1968-69 Hendrickson Hill the hill was abandoned and the steel tower was once again dismantled and reassembled in its new location at Silver Mine Hill, 4.5 mi downstream on the Chippewa River. The ski jump is still used at this site.

Two early houses (11008,11009) on Ski Hill Road are simple yet stylish homes built on the steep and lovely wooded hills of Ogden Dunes. Later structures along the beach include two outstanding houses (11001, 11004), which reflect the area's emergence as a fashionable and exclusive residential area in Porter County.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Ogden Dunes has a total area of 1.46 sqmi, of which 0.74 sqmi (or 50.68%) is land and 0.72 sqmi (or 49.32%) is water.

Ogden Dunes is in Portage Township, Porter County, Indiana. It is an exclusively a residential community. Neighboring Ogden Dunes are several similar enclaves within Indiana Dunes National Park: Miller Beach to the west, Beverly Shores and Dune Acres to the east. Like Ogden Dunes, a considerable portion of the residences in these communities are occupied as summer or weekend homes by Chicagoans.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 1,110 people, 508 households, and 335 families residing in the town. The population density was 1500.0 PD/sqmi. There were 619 housing units at an average density of 836.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.1% White, 1.1% African American, 0.1% Native American, 1.3% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 1.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.2% of the population.

There were 508 households, of which 19.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.9% were married couples living together, 6.3% had a female householder with no husband present, 1.8% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.1% were non-families. 27.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 2.67.

The median age in the town was 55.1 years. 15.7% of residents were under the age of 18; 4.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 12.2% were from 25 to 44; 41.8% were from 45 to 64; and 25.3% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.7% male and 50.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,313 people, 562 households, and 417 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,798.3 PD/sqmi. There were 627 housing units at an average density of 858.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.55% White, 0.23% African American, 0.15% Native American, 0.08% Asian, 0.23% from other races, and 0.76% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.36% of the population.

There were 562 households, out of which 23.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 65.8% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.8% were non-families. 20.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.0% 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 2.70.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 18.0% under the age of 18, 3.4% from 18 to 24, 20.6% from 25 to 44, 37.0% from 45 to 64, and 21.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 49 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 98.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $76,924, and the median income for a family was $90,719. Males had a median income of $61,111 versus $41,667 for females. The per capita income for the town was $49,852.

title: Ogden Dunes, Indiana


text:
Porter, Indiana

Porter is a town in Westchester Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 4,858 at the 2010 census. Porter is in the Indiana Dunes ecosystem, which played a role in the creation of The Nature Conservancy, and inspired conservation efforts.

Porter is noted for its proximity to Indiana Dunes State Park and for its railroad heritage. Porter was the southern terminus for the Chicago and West Michigan Railway.

History
Porter had its start in the 1850s when the railroad was extended to that point.

Historic sites
The Joseph Bailly Homestead is located in Indiana Dunes National Park on Howe Road, just north of U.S. 20. It is the residence of three generations of the Bailly family. Joseph and Marie Bailly arrived here in 1822 from the St. Joseph River in Michigan. He had been a fur trader on Lake Michigan for nearly 30 years when he set up his family home along the Little Calumet River.

The Chellberg Farm is also a three generation home, but of the family of Anders Kjellburg (Chellberg). He brought his family to this Swedish community in 1869, purchasing 80 acre from the Bailly descendants. The farm is located on Mineral Springs Road, north of U.S. 20.

The Augsburg Swedish Lutheran Church and Cemetery are located on Beam Street, west of town. The cemetery was founded in 1878.

In addition to the Joseph Bailly Homestead, the Good Fellow Club Youth Camp and Porter Town Hall are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Porter has a total area of 6.48 sqmi, of which 6.2 sqmi (or 95.68%) is land and 0.28 sqmi (or 4.32%) is water.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 4,858 people, 1,832 households, and 1,310 families living in the town. The population density was 783.5 PD/sqmi. There were 1,978 housing units at an average density of 319.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 94.3% White, 1.1% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.9% Asian, 1.6% from other races, and 1.7% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.6% of the population.

There were 1,832 households, of which 35.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.3% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 28.5% were non-families. 21.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.65 and the average family size was 3.12.

The median age in the town was 39.1 years. 25.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 27% were from 25 to 44; 29.2% were from 45 to 64; and 10.7% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.5% male and 50.5% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,972 people, 1,844 households, and 1,300 families living in the town. The population density was 788.8 PD/sqmi. There were 1,966 housing units at an average density of 311.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.14% White, 0.82% African American, 0.22% Native American, 0.58% Asian, 0.62% from other races, and 1.61% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.69% of the population.

There were 1,844 households, out of which 38.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.8% were married couples living together, 10.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.5% were non-families. 23.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.9% 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 3.12.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 28.3% under the age of 18, 9.9% from 18 to 24, 32.6% from 25 to 44, 21.5% from 45 to 64, and 7.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.7 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $50,625, and the median income for a family was $60,254. Males had a median income of $50,799 versus $26,055 for females. The per capita income for the town was $24,615. About 4.9% of families and 6.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.7% of those under age 18 and 1.4% of those age 65 or over.

title: Porter, Indiana


text:
South Haven, Indiana

South Haven is a census-designated place in Portage Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 5,282 at the 2010 census.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.2 square miles (3.2 km$2$), all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 5,619 people, 1,906 households, and 1,538 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 4,515.3 PD/sqmi. There were 1,956 housing units at an average density of 1,571.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 96.85% White, 0.37% African American, 0.23% Native American, 0.25% Asian, 1.05% from other races, and 1.25% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 6.16% of the population.

There were 1,906 households, out of which 39.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.8% were married couples living together, 11.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.3% were non-families. 15.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.95 and the average family size was 3.26.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 29.1% under the age of 18, 9.5% from 18 to 24, 31.0% from 25 to 44, 23.0% from 45 to 64, and 7.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.5 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $52,583, and the median income for a family was $54,875. Males had a median income of $41,003 versus $23,283 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $18,112. About 3.2% of families and 5.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 6.7% of those under age 18 and 6.8% of those age 65 or over.

South Haven is unincorporated Porter County. They are part of the Portage School System, have a Valparaiso, IN address. They do not have a vote in Valparaiso or Portage city elections. The area has a Wheeler-based phone number. Police service is provided by Porter County. The county is also responsible for street repairs and snow removal.

South Haven also has a Little League field. Divisions are Minors, Majors and Senior Leagues. South Haven also has a Boy's and Girl's Club. All of the stores and restaurants are located on U.S. Hwy 6.

Education
South Haven has a public library, a branch of the Porter County Public Library System.

South Haven has 2 Elementary schools (K-5). Paul Saylor Elementary and South Haven Elementary. They are part of the Portage Township Schools.

title: South Haven, Indiana


text:
Town of Pines, Indiana

Town of Pines is a town in Pine Township, Porter County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 708 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Town of Pines is located near Lake Michigan and adjacent to the Indiana Dunes National Park.

According to the 2010 census, Town of Pines has a total area of 2.25 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 708 people, 302 households, and 184 families living in the town. The population density was 313.3 PD/sqmi. There were 353 housing units at an average density of 156.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 93.9% White, 2.3% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.1% from other races, and 3.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.1% of the population.

There were 302 households, of which 21.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.0% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 39.1% were non-families. 31.1% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.9% 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 2.94.

The median age in the town was 45.3 years. 18.8% of residents were under the age of 18; 6.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 24.2% were from 25 to 44; 36% were from 45 to 64; and 14.5% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 50.4% male and 49.6% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 798 people, 332 households, and 226 families living in the town. The population density was 350.5 PD/sqmi. There were 360 housing units at an average density of 158.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.24% White, 0.13% African American, 1.38% Native American, 0.50% Asian, 0.13% from other races, and 1.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.13% of the population.

There were 332 households, out of which 27.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.0% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 31.9% were non-families. 26.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.92.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 20.7% under the age of 18, 8.6% from 18 to 24, 30.1% from 25 to 44, 29.6% from 45 to 64, and 11.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 108.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 110.3 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $41,875, and the median income for a family was $47,143. Males had a median income of $41,000 versus $22,969 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,856. About 4.6% of families and 8.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.8% of those under age 18 and 14.9% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation
Town of Pines is the home of Indiana State Road 520, a 0.2-mile-long (0.3 km) state highway connecting U.S. Highway 12 to U.S. Highway 20. It is the shortest state highway in Indiana.

The Central Avenue station of the South Shore Line, also known as Pines station, served Town of Pines from 1927 until its demolition in the 1970s.

title: Town of Pines, Indiana


text:
Valparaiso, Indiana

Valparaiso, colloquially Valpo, is a city and the county seat of Porter County, Indiana, United States. The population was 34,151 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Chicago metropolitan area.

History
The site of present-day Valparaiso was included in the purchase of land from the Potawatomi people by the U.S. Government in October 1832. Chiqua's town or Chipuaw was located a mile east of the current Courthouse along the Sauk Trail. Chiqua's town existed from or before 1830 until after 1832. The location is just north of the railroad crossing on State Route 2 and County Road 400 North.

Located on the ancient Native American trail from Rock Island to Detroit, the town had its first log cabin in 1834. Established in 1836 as Portersville, county seat of Porter County, it was renamed to Valparaiso (meaning "Vale of Paradise" in Old Spanish) in 1837 after Valparaíso, Chile, near which the county's namesake David Porter battled in the Battle of Valparaiso during the War of 1812. The city was once called the "City of Churches" due to the large number of churches located there at the end of the 19th century. Valparaiso Male and Female College, one of the earliest higher education institutions admitting both men and women in the country, was founded in Valparaiso in 1859, but closed its doors in 1871 before reopening in 1873 as the Northern Indiana Normal School and Business Institute. In the early 20th century, it became Valparaiso College, then Valparaiso University. It was initially affiliated with the Methodist Church but after 1925 with the Lutheran University Association (which has relationships both with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, and with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and expanded significantly after World War II.

From the 1890s until 1969, there were no African-American residents in Valparaiso. This has been attributed to Valparaiso being a sundown town. There was also substantial activity by the Ku Klux Klan, which negotiated to purchase Valparaiso University in 1923. The first African-American family to move to Valparaiso faced intimidation and eventually left the city when a visiting relative was murdered. In recent years, the city's racial composition has diversified.

Valparaiso also has a long history of being a transportation hub for the region. In 1858, the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railroad reached Valparaiso, connecting the city directly to Chicago. By 1910, an interurban railway connected the city to Gary, Indiana. Today, while the city no longer has a passenger train station, it is still very much a part of the "Crossroads of America" due to its proximity to I-65, I-80, I-90, and I-94. Additionally, the Canadian National railroad still runs freight on the tracks, including through the downtown area.

Until 1991, Valparaiso was the terminal of Amtrak's Calumet commuter service.

Geography
The city is situated at the junctions of U.S. Route 30, State Road 2, and State Road 49.

According to the 2010 census, Valparaiso has a total area of 15.578 sqmi, of which 15.53 sqmi (or 99.69%) is land and 0.048 sqmi (or 0.31%) is water.

Topography
The city is situated on the Valparaiso Moraine.

Glaciation has left numerous features on the landscape here. Kettle lakes and knobs make up much of this hilly area of Northwest Indiana. The Pines Ski Area is the only remaining kame in the city; the other one is under the university's Chapel of the Resurrection, however, grading of land in that area makes that particular kame almost nonexistent. Many glacial erratics can be found throughout the city. The moraine has left the city with mostly clay soil.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 31,730 people, 12,610 households, and 7,117 families residing in the city. The population density was 2043.1 PD/sqmi. There were 13,506 housing units at an average density of 869.7 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 89.9% White, 3.3% African American, 0.3% Native American, 2.1% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 2.2% from other races, and 2.1% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.1% of the population.

There were 12,610 households, of which 28.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 41.6% were married couples living together, 10.9% had a female householder with no husband present, 3.9% had a male householder with no wife present, and 43.6% were non-families. 34.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.28 and the average family size was 2.99.

The median age in the city was 33.4 years. 21.3% of residents were under the age of 18; 15.9% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.9% were from 25 to 44; 22.8% were from 45 to 64; and 13.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 48.6% male and 51.4% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 27,428 people, 10,867 households, and 6,368 families residing in the city. The population density was 971.6 /km2. There were 11,559 housing units at an average density of 409.4 /km2. The racial makeup of the city was 94.35% White, 1.60% African American, 0.23% Native American, 1.49% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.79% from other races, and 1.52% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.34% of the population.

There were 10,867 households, out of which 28.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.9% were married couples living together, 9.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.4% were non-families. 33.4% 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 2.27 and the average family size was 2.93.

In the city, the population was spread out, with 21.2% under the age of 18, 17.4% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 20.2% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.5 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $45,799, and the median income for a family was $60,637. Males had a median income of $46,452 versus $26,544 for females. The per capita income for the city was $22,509. About 4.8% of families and 9.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.1% of those under age 18 and 7.5% of those age 65 or over.

Arts and culture

 * Featured in Valparaiso, a play by Don DeLillo
 * The Valparaiso Downtown Commercial District, Washington Street Historic District, and the Banta Neighborhood feature many historic homes; architectural designs include, Italianate, Arts & Crafts, and English/Cottswold.

Live theater

 * Chicago Street Theatre, run by the local Community Theater Guild.
 * The Memorial Opera House, a musical theater venue.
 * Valparaiso Theatrical Company, a non-profit community theatre group focused on providing fund-raising opportunities for other non-profit organizations through theatrical performance.

Museums

 * Brauer Museum of Art at Valparaiso University
 * Museum of Fire Fighting
 * Porter County Museum, also known as the Old Jail Museum

City fairs

The city holds two major festivals every year: the Popcorn Festival and the Porter County Fair. The Popcorn Festival is held on the first Saturday after Labor Day. It honors Orville Redenbacher, a former resident who built a popcorn factory there. Redenbacher participated in most of the festival's parades until his death in 1995. The festival also features foot racing events and multiple concerts in addition to typical fair activities. The Porter County Fair consists of carnival attractions and hosts a variety of shows such as a demolition derby, motocross races, and live musical performances.

Public library
Valparaiso has a public library, a branch of the Porter County Public Library System.

Historic buildings and districts

 * Porter County Courthouse replaced an earlier brick building in 1883. The current building is 128 feet by 98 feet. It was built with a square tower rising out of the center. The tower was 168 feet tall with a clock on each side. A fire in 1934 damaged in the interior requiring the removal of the tower.

National Register of Historic Places
There are a number of buildings and districts in the city listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 * Conrad and Catherine Bloch House
 * Haste-Crumpacker House
 * Heritage Hall
 * Immanuel Lutheran Church
 * Dr. David J. Loring Residence and Clinic
 * William McCallum House
 * Charles S. and Mary McGill House
 * Porter County Jail and Sheriff's House
 * Porter County Memorial Opera Hall
 * David Garland Rose House
 * DeForest Skinner House
 * Valparaiso Downtown Commercial District
 * Washington Street Historic District (Valparaiso, Indiana)

Parks and recreation
Valparaiso has an extensive city park district. In 2005 there were 13 parks with another in the planning stages.

Parks

200 East (East McCord Rd) – a community park with a playground; where many of the city's legendary athletes played football as youngsters. Football at 200 East Park is a staple for young kids growing up in the neighborhood.

Bicentennial Park (Burlington Beach Road & Campbell St) – Provides a full range of activities, including a playground, basketball courts, ball diamond and picnic shelters. A prairie restoration is under way in the north half of the park.

Central Park Plaza (Lincolnway and Lafayette St) – is the centerpiece of the Downtown Valparaiso revitalization and opened the summer of 2011. It has an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and other special events as well as a splash pad in the center of the park for kids to play.

Fairgrounds Park (Calumet & Evans Avenues) – Has the largest complex of ball diamonds and soccer fields in the city. A playground and basketball court are available. Numerous city sports leagues use Fairgrounds Park for their games and tournaments. The park is surrounded by a paved walking circuit that is well occupied on nice days.

Foundation Meadows (Campbell Street & Bullseye Lake Rd) – One of the city's newer parks.

Glenrose South (1500 Roosevelt Road) – Provides several ball diamonds and when school is out, Thomas Jefferson Middle Schools track is available for those interested in walking. Glenrose South has been the home of the Valparaiso Fourth of July Fireworks display and celebration since 2005.

Jessee-Pifer Park (Elmhurst & Madison Streets) – a community park with a basketball court and picnic shelter.

Kirchhoff Miller Woods, (Roosevelt Road & Institute St – a community park that provides for basketball, baseball, tennis, picnicking and a playground.

Ogden Gardens/Forest Park (Campbell Street and Harrison Blvd) – Ogden Gardens is the home of the city's botanical garden. The Campbell Street end is a formal garden with a variety of planting that bloom throughout the year. The Gazebo is a favorite place for weddings, wedding pictures and high school prom pictures. A Japanese garden is included with a 22,000-gallon Koi pond. Forest Park is to the west with an open grassy picnic area below a wooded picnic area with a shelter.

Rock Island (Coolwood Dr &, Frontage Rd) is a "tourist attraction" found in front of the Strack & Van Til grocery store just off of the US 30 highway. The curb that splits the right and left turn lanes has been responsible for a number car crashes and accidents. Over the weekend between May 17 and May 19 of 2024, community members decorated the curb with rocks, signs, traffic cones, and other miscellaneous decor, including a flamingo and a blanket for one of the rocks. This has since been considered an inside joke, featuring its own Google reviews as an official tourist attraction.

Rogers-Lakwood Park (Meridian Road (N Campbell Street)) – Provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and hiking trails. It is connected to the north side communities of Valparaiso by the Campbell Street Bike Trail (hiking and biking).

Tower Park (Evans Ave and Franklin St.) is a community park that offers basketball, baseball, tennis, pickleball, picnicking, and a playground. During winter months, one of the basketball courts is turned into the community skating rink.

Valplayso/Glenrose North (Glendale Blvd and Roosevelt Rd) is the home of Valplayso, a community-designed and community-built playground. At the other end of the parking lot are several ball fields. Separated from Glenrose South by only the Middle Schools track, Glenrose North hosts over half of the community during the Fourth of July Celebration.

West Side Park (Joliet Rd) is a community park with a ball field and a playground.

Will Park (Morgan Blvd and Brown St) is a community park with a basketball court, playground, and picnic shelter.

Golf

 * Valparaiso Country Club
 * Forest Park
 * Creekside
 * Mink Lake (Closed)
 * The Course at Aberdeen

Bike trails
Valparaiso is building a series of bike trails across the city. Currently, (March 2012) most of the identified bike routes are part of the county's system of recommended roads and streets.

Biking and hiking
Campbell Street Bikeway runs from Rogers-Lakewood Park south 2.5 mi to Vale Park Road (CR 400 N). It continues south on the opposite side of Campbell St. base Valparaiso High School, ending 2 mi south at Ogden Gardens (Harrison Blvd).

At Vale Park, it connects to the Vale Park trail to Valparaiso Street 1 mi. A new bike loop 3 mi is being built that circles north along Valparaiso Street to Bullseye Lake Rd, east to Cumberland Crossing (not open to the public (2008), south to Vale Park, turning west to on Vale Park to return to the corner of Vale Park and Valparaiso Street.

At Glendale, the Campbell Street Bikeway connects to the Glendale cross town bike lane. These travel east 2 mi on Glendale, ending on North Calumet at the Walgreens corner.

Government
Valparaiso has an elected mayor, an elected clerk-treasurer, and an elected council. All of these positions are elected for four-year terms in November of the year before a presidential election year and assumes office on January 1.

Higher education
Valparaiso University was founded in 1859, and occupies 310 acre on the south side of the city near downtown. The university is a cultural center of the city, hosting venues such as the Brauer Museum of Art, with more than 2,700 pieces of 19th- and 20th century American art.

Ivy Tech operates one of its 23 regional campuses in the city. From 2006 until 2016, Purdue University North Central had a two-building satellite campus in Valparaiso.

Primary and secondary education

 * Public schools Valparaiso Public School District.gif
 * Valparaiso Community Schools
 * Valparaiso High School
 * Porter County Career and Technical Center
 * Benjamin Franklin Middle School
 * Thomas Jefferson Middle School
 * Central Elementary
 * Cooks Corner Elementary School
 * Heavilin Elementary
 * Flint Lake Elementary School
 * Thomas Jefferson Elementary School
 * Memorial Elementary
 * Northview Elementary School
 * Parkview Elementary
 * East Porter County Schools
 * Washington Township High School; serves part of the city of Valparaiso
 * Private schools
 * Christ Baptist Christian Academy
 * The Classical Academy
 * Immanuel Lutheran School (K-8)
 * Montessori School of Valparaiso
 * Saint Paul's Catholic School (K-8)
 * Spirit Of God Accelerated Education,
 * South Haven Christian School
 * Victory Christian Academy

Newspapers
Valparaiso is served by two regional newspapers:
 * The Times of Northwest Indiana (or NWI Times), was founded in 1906 and is the second largest of Indiana's 76 daily newspapers. It is based on Munster.
 * The Post-Tribune of Northwest Indiana was founded in 1907, serving the Northwest Indiana region. The Post-Tribune is owned by Tribune Company and is based in Merrillville.

Magazines
North Valpo Neighbors and South Valpo Neighbors are published in Valparaiso.

Radio
The primary local radio stations are WLJE 105.5 FM "Indiana 105", which broadcasts country music, WAKE 1500 AM, which plays adult standards, and WVLP 98.3 FM "ValpoRadio", a non-profit, low power FM community radio station. Valparaiso formerly had a fourth local station, WNWI 1080 AM, which relocated to Oak Lawn, Illinois in 1998 and is now a Chicago-market station. Radio is usually from the Chicago market.

Infrastructure
Valparaiso gets all of its water from wells that draw water from depths between 90 and 120 ft. The supply is treated with chlorine solution to remove the iron. Valparaiso also has three sewer retention basins.

Valparaiso's energy is provided by NIPSCO. The Schaeffer Power Plant is located south of Valparaiso, in Wheatfield.

A city bus service, the V-Line, was founded in 2007. It operates between downtown, the university, shopping centers, the city's northern neighborhoods, and Dune Park station of the Northern Indiana Commuter Transit District.

On October 6, 2008, Valparaiso inaugurated an express bus service to and from Chicago, Illinois called ChicaGo DASH. Buses depart Valparaiso on weekday mornings and return from Chicago in the evenings.

Valparaiso is served by four highways. U.S. Route 30 is the major east–west artery on the southern side of the city. Indiana State Road 49, the major north–south artery, connects with Chesterton, Indiana and the Indiana Toll Road. Indiana Route 130 runs northwest to Hobart, Indiana. Indiana State Road 2, which connects South Bend and Lowell, passes through the southeast corner of the city.

Three railroads pass through the city. The Norfolk Southern Railway operates on the tracks that were previously the Nickel Plate Road, the Canadian National is the former Grand Trunk Western Railroad and the Chicago, Fort Wayne and Eastern Railroad operates on the tracks that were previously used by the Pennsylvania Railroad.

Notable people

 * Newton Arvin, literary critic
 * John L. Bascom, politician
 * Harry Benham, actor
 * Beulah Bondi, actress
 * Mary Blatchley Briggs (1846– 1910), writer and women's organizer
 * Kevin L. Brown, former Major League Baseball (MLB) player
 * Mark N. Brown, astronaut
 * Josephine Cochrane, invented and patented the modern dishwasher
 * Bryce Drew, professional basketball player in the National Basketball Association (NBA)
 * Michael Essany, reality television talk show host and author
 * Gina Fattore, producer and writer of Dawson's Creek, Gilmore Girls, Parenthood and showrunner of Dare Me
 * Chris Funk, guitarist for The Decemberists
 * Henry C. Gordon, astronaut
 * Mark A. Heckler, 18th president of Valparaiso University
 * Zach Holmes, new Jackass member
 * Robbie Hummel, professional basketball player in the NBA since 2012
 * Samuel Austin Kendall, politician
 * Mike Kellogg, retired Moody Radio announcer
 * Hub Knolls, former pitcher in Major League Baseball
 * Heather Kuzmich, 4th runner-up of America's Next Top Model, Cycle 9
 * Earl F. Landgrebe, politician, staunch defender of Richard Nixon
 * Charles F. Lembke, architect and contractor. He built many downtown area buildings.
 * David E. Lilienthal, politician
 * Sean Manaea, professional baseball player in MLB
 * Orville Redenbacher, hybrid popcorn developer
 * Henry P. Rusk, dean of the Department of Agriculture at the University of Illinois
 * Jeff Samardzija, professional baseball player in MLB
 * Carly Schroeder, actress
 * Walter Wangerin, Jr., author and professor at Valparaiso University
 * R. Harold Zook, architect

title: Valparaiso, Indiana


text:
Cynthiana, Indiana

Cynthiana is a town in Smith Township, Posey County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 545 at the 2010 census.

History
Cynthiana was named for Cynthiana, Kentucky, from whence on September 25, 1815, a group of 44 settlers had come. More settlers from the same area continued to migrate to the area over the following several years. On March 6, 1817, the town was laid out by William Davis, with the plat being recorded on March 17, 1817. It was not until April 22, 1896, that the town incorporated.

On September 23, 1815, Thomas Duncan had made a land entry for the SE 1/4 of Section 11, Township 4 South, Range 11 West of the Second Principal Meridian, receiving a patent to the land on December 20, 1817. It was on March 24, 1818, that he sold the 58½ acres for the townsite of Cynthiana to William Davis.

A post office has been in operation at Cynthiana since 1820.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Cynthiana has a total area of 0.4 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 545 people, 236 households, and 154 families living in the town. The population density was 1362.5 PD/sqmi. There were 272 housing units at an average density of 680.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 96.5% White, 0.2% African American, 0.2% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.4% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.6% of the population.

There were 236 households, of which 30.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.3% were married couples living together, 11.4% had a female householder with no husband present, 5.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 34.7% were non-families. 31.4% 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 2.31 and the average family size was 2.80.

The median age in the town was 42.5 years. 22.6% of residents were under the age of 18; 7.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.3% were from 25 to 44; 31.9% were from 45 to 64; and 14.9% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 49.7% male and 50.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 693 people, 265 households, and 195 families living in the town. The population density was 1,725.1 PD/sqmi. There were 286 housing units at an average density of 711.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.56% White, 0.43% Native American, 0.29% Asian, and 0.72% from two or more races.

There were 265 households, out of which 34.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.2% were married couples living together, 7.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.4% were non-families. 24.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.5% 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 3.11.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 27.7% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 29.7% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 13.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 96.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $37,589, and the median income for a family was $42,000. Males had a median income of $35,286 versus $20,583 for females. The per capita income for the town was $15,313. About 5.3% of families and 9.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 11.9% of those under age 18 and 18.5% of those age 65 or over.

Education
The town and northern half of Posey County is served by the MSD of North Posey County, which currently operates four schools:
 * North Posey High School (9-12)
 * North Posey Junior High School (7-8)
 * North Elementary School (K-6)
 * South Terrace Elementary School (K-6)

Highways

 * [[Image:I-64.svg|30px]] Interstate 64
 * [[Image:indiana 68.svg|30px]] Indiana State Road 68
 * [[Image:indiana 65.svg|30px]] Indiana State Road 65

title: Cynthiana, Indiana


text:
Griffin, Indiana

Griffin is a town in Bethel Township, Posey County, in the U.S. state of Indiana. The population was 172 at the 2010 census.

History
Griffin was originally called Price's Station, and under the latter name was laid out in 1881 by William Price, and named for him. The present name honors Samuel Griffin, an early postmaster. A post office called Griffin has been in operation since 1881.

The town was destroyed by the Tri-State Tornado on the afternoon of March 18, 1925, killing 44 people and injuring over 200. In 1972, a nearby outdoor rock concert Erie Canal Soda Pop Festival caused quite a stir in the town over the course of three days. Locally, the fest was called the Bull Island rock fest, based on the location of the festival.

Geography
Griffin is located at 38.20444°N, -87.915°W (38.204406, -87.915033).

According to the 2010 census, Griffin has a total area of 0.07 sqmi, all land.

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 172 people, 69 households, and 51 families living in the town. The population density was 2457.1 PD/sqmi. There were 75 housing units at an average density of 1071.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 98.8% White, 0.6% African American, and 0.6% from two or more races.

There were 69 households, of which 33.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 62.3% were married couples living together, 7.2% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.3% had a male householder with no wife present, and 26.1% were non-families. 21.7% 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 2.49 and the average family size was 2.94.

The median age in the town was 37.3 years. 26.2% of residents were under the age of 18; 5.3% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 26.1% were from 25 to 44; 27.3% were from 45 to 64; and 15.1% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the town was 43.0% male and 57.0% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 160 people, 73 households, and 42 families living in the town. The population density was 2,363.3 PD/sqmi. There were 81 housing units at an average density of 1,196.4 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 99.38% White, and 0.62% from two or more races.

There were 73 households, out of which 17.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.1% were married couples living together, 5.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 41.1% were non-families. 34.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 26.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.19 and the average family size was 2.84.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 19.4% under the age of 18, 8.8% from 18 to 24, 18.8% from 25 to 44, 33.1% from 45 to 64, and 20.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 47 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 87.0 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $26,786, and the median income for a family was $42,083. Males had a median income of $28,125 versus $18,750 for females. The per capita income for the town was $18,074. About 7.0% of families and 17.9% of the population were below the poverty line, including 40.7% of those under the age of eighteen and 22.2% of those 65 or over.

Education
The town and northern half of Posey County is served by the MSD of North Posey County, which currently operates four schools:
 * North Posey High School (9-12)
 * North Posey Junior High School (7-8)
 * North Elementary School (K-6)
 * South Terrace Elementary School (K-6)

Prior to 1959, the community had its own high school. The school colors were red and white, and the mascot was the tornadoes, named after the Tri-State tornado outbreak. That year, the high school merged into North Posey High.

Highways

 * [[Image:I-64.svg|30px]] Interstate 64
 * [[Image:indiana 69.svg|30px]] Indiana State Road 69

title: Griffin, Indiana


text:
Mount Vernon, Indiana

Mount Vernon is a city in and the county seat of Posey County, Indiana, United States. Located in the state's far southwestern corner, within 15 mi of both the southernmost or westernmost points, it is the westernmost city in the state. The southernmost is Rockport, located along the Ohio River about 40 mi to the southeast.

The population was 6,687 at the 2010 census. It is located in Black Township and is part of the Evansville, Indiana, metropolitan area, which had a 2010 population of 358,676.

History

Mount Vernon is the county seat and largest city in Posey County, named for General Thomas Posey, Governor of the Indiana Territory. He grew up at a plantation adjacent to George Washington's Mount Vernon. He was widely rumored to be Washington's illegitimate son, but this was dismissed by Posey's biographer, John Thornton Posey, a descendant.

The first settler in Mount Vernon was Andrew McFaden in 1806, and the settlement was called McFaden's Bluff. It was platted as Mount Vernon in 1816, but continued to be known as McFadden's Bluff for some time. It was named in honor of Washington's Mount Vernon. A post office called Mount Vernon has been in operation since 1818.

A number of historic sites have been recognized in Mount Vernon, including the Posey County Courthouse Square, Mount Vernon Downtown Historic District, Welborn Historic District and the William Gonnerman House, all of which have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Geography
According to the 2010 census, Mount Vernon has a total area of 2.86 sqmi, of which 2.81 sqmi (or 98.25%) is land and 0.05 sqmi (or 1.75%) is water.

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

2010 census
As of the census of 2010, there were 6,687 people, 2,736 households, and 1,819 families residing in the city. The population density was 2379.7 PD/sqmi. There were 3,077 housing units at an average density of 1095.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 93.4% White, 2.8% African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.4% Asian, 0.8% from other races, and 2.4% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.7% of the population.

There were 2,736 households, of which 32.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 48.4% were married couples living together, 13.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 4.5% had a male householder with no wife present, and 33.5% were non-families. 29.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.96.

The median age in the city was 40.2 years. 24.5% of residents were under the age of 18; 8.6% were between the ages of 18 and 24; 23.1% were from 25 to 44; 27.1% were from 45 to 64; and 16.8% were 65 years of age or older. The gender makeup of the city was 47.7% male and 52.3% female.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 7,478 people, 3,027 households, and 2,058 families residing in the city. The population density was 3,036.0 PD/sqmi. There were 3,312 housing units at an average density of 1,344.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the city was 95.85% White, 2.65% African American, 0.16% Native American, 0.23% Asian, 0.25% from other races, and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.56% of the population.

There were 3,027 households, out of which 33.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 52.4% were married couples living together, 12.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.0% were non-families. 28.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.97.

In the city the population was spread out, with 26.1% under the age of 18, 8.0% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 23.1% from 45 to 64, and 14.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 91.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.0 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $36,543, and the median income for a family was $49,432. Males had a median income of $40,045 versus $22,790 for females. The per capita income for the city was $19,264. About 10.5% of families and 12.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 15.6% of those under age 18 and 13.0% of those age 65 or over.

Government
The city has a mayor-council form of government. The mayor is elected at-large in a citywide vote. The city council consists of five members: four are elected from single-member districts and one is elected at-large.

Industry
Mount Vernon is the headquarters of a small oil refinery owned by the CountryMark agricultural cooperative. Originally built in 1940, it processes more than 20,000 barrels of local crude oil per day.

A former GE Plastics Plant is located here, now owned by Saudi Arabia Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC). Vectren Energy's A.B. Brown Generating Station is located 8 miles east the city.

Mount Vernon is home to two biofuels plants, Abengoa of Indiana and Aventine Renewable Energy. These two facilities helped make Mount Vernon an important energy exporter. The Aventine plant had been developed via partnership with Consolidated Grain and Barge, another company at the port, and was the largest operating ethanol plant east of the Mississippi River. Its nameplate was 110 million gallons of ethanol per year. It was closed in 2012, but it has since resumed operation under Valero Energy ownership.

BWX Technologies (BWXT - formerly Babcock & Wilcox) has a large facility to make large pressure vessels and large metal tubes in Mt. Vernon. This facility produced many components for commercial nuclear plants from the 1960s through 1980s. It now makes heavy-pressure vessels for both commercial and non-commercial power plants. This facility has the largest loading and unloading capacity (1000 tons) on an inland waterway within 500 mi.

The Mount Vernon port is the largest port for coal shipments in the U.S. and the 7th-largest inland port. The John T. Myers Locks and Dam, located 13 mi SW of Mount Vernon, was constructed to improve navigation and flood control on the Ohio River. It is important to shipping for the region's river-based industries.

Local media
Mount Vernon is left without a newspaper, with The Posey County News out of northern Posey county serving as the county's only newspaper. It is represented by the radio stations WPIW AM 1590 and WMVI FM 106.7. Mount Vernon previously (circa 1867-6/24/2020) had “ The Mount Vernon Democrat “ as the town's main newspaper until economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic led to the Mount Vernon Democrat stopping its publication with its June 24, 2020, edition. Landmark Community Newspapers acquired the Democrat in 1979. It was established in 1867 and covered Mount Vernon and the surrounding communities of Posey County, Indiana.

Schools
The city and southern half of Posey County is served by the M.S.D. of Mount Vernon which currently operates 5 schools:

 * Mount Vernon High School (9-12)
 * Mount Vernon Junior High (6-8)
 * Farmersville Elementary School (K-5)
 * Marrs Elementary School (K-5)
 * West Elementary School (K-5)
 * St Matthew's School (K-5) is operated under the auspices of the Diocese of Evansville

Public library
The Alexandrian Public Library serves the residents of Mount Vernon, Indiana, as well as Black, Lynn, Marrs, Point, and Robinson townships (approximately 21,000 residents).

The Main Library, built in 1986, is located at 115 West Fifth Street. It has more than 100,000 items, a dozen public computers, and free Wi-Fi. In addition, a bookmobile operates to serve the area schools and outlying areas of the county.

A monthly book discussion group for adults, numerous storytimes, a Summer Reading Program, targeted programming for youth, young adult and adults are all offered free of charge to the public on a regular basis.

The Alexandrian Public Library has a varied and popular collection of local history resources and family history files in the "Indiana Room" of the Main Library. Microfilmed newspapers, contributed family documents, resources from the Posey County Historical Society, and more are available for genealogists and researchers.

Meeting rooms are available for use by the public at the library. Non-profit groups may use the rooms free of charge, and for-profit groups are charged $5/hour.

The Alexandrian Public Library is open 9am-8pm Monday through Thursday, 9am-5pm on Friday and Saturday, and 1pm-5pm on Sunday.

Highways

 * [[Image:indiana 62.svg|30px]] Indiana State Road 62
 * [[Image:indiana 69.svg|30px]] Indiana State Road 69

Rail service

 * Evansville Western Railway, a short-line railroad serving area industries both in Indiana and Illinois, is headquartered in Mount Vernon.

River port

 * Ports of Indiana-Mount Vernon, a major public riverport, is located just east of Mount Vernon. It began operation in 1976 as Southwind Maritime Center. It is one of three and the largest public port operated by the state of Indiana.

Notable people

 * H. Joel Deckard (1942-2016) Born in Vandalia, Illinois, Deckard attended public schools in Mount Vernon, Indiana. He served as member of the Indiana House of Representatives from 1966 to 1974 and was later elected to the US House of Representatives, serving from 1979 to 1983.
 * Francis C. Green (1835–1905), born and raised in Mt. Vernon, he was a US Army soldier who served with the 8th U.S. Cavalry during the Indian Wars. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1869.
 * William Harrow (1822–1871), Union general in the Civil War. Born in Winchester, Kentucky, he lived in Mount Vernon and is buried in Bellefontaine Cemetery just north of town.
 * Alvin P. Hovey (1821–1891), Union general in the Civil War and Governor of Indiana 1889–1891. Born in Mount Vernon and is buried in Bellefontaine Cemetery.
 * Ann Hovey (1911-2007), born and raised in Mount Vernon, she became an actress, appearing in several B-movies in the 1930s.
 * Anna Byford Leonard (1843–1930), reformer
 * Frederick Charles Leonard (1896–1960), born and raised in Mount Vernon, he became an astronomer and faculty member at the University of California, Los Angeles.
 * Thomas Gamble Pitcher (1824–1895), lived in Mount Vernon; he served as a Union general in the Civil War and was an 1845 graduate of the United States Military Academy.
 * William Edward Wilson (1870–1948), born and raised in Mount Vernon, he was a U.S. Representative from Indiana, serving from 1923 to 1925.

title: Mount Vernon, Indiana