Image: Acton Campground 1859-1905

Description: In June 1859 the Indianapolis District of the Camp-Meeting Association of the Methodist Episcopal Church established the 40-acre Acton Campground at this site later known as Acton Park. A hotel, pavilion, man-made lake and cottages were constructed. Thousands of visitors came by horse and wagon, buggies, and train to hear famous speakers, including William Jennings Bryan. Acton Park was part of the Chautauqua circuit. WCTU held 3-day outings here. Sunday School picnics and other moral and religious celebrations were permitted. Amusement consistent with the precepts and spirit of the Christian religion were allowed, but dancing and other improper amusements were not. On November 12, 1905 a disastrous fire swept over the grounds. It was believed that sparks from a passing locomotive started the fire. It destroyed the pavilion, 110 cottages, and many fine trees. In 2004 Indy Parks acquired 23 acres of the camp to develop into a public park. Indiana Daughters of the American Revolution Joan Lowes Nichols (Mrs. Lowell E.) State Regent 2003-2006
Title: Acton Campground 1859-1905
Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/hystericalmark/5582955777/
Author: HystericalMark
Usage Terms: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0
License: CC BY-SA 2.0
License Link: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0
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