Indianapolis Old Southside Historic District facts for kids
The Indianapolis Historic Old Southside is a special old neighborhood. It is located just south of downtown Indianapolis, Indiana. This area is bordered by South Street to the north. To the south, it meets the CSX Railroad and Adler Street. Madison Avenue is its eastern border. The White River forms its western edge.
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History of the Old Southside
Early Settlers Arrive
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In the early 1830s, many new people came to Indianapolis. These included Irish and German immigrants. They helped build the Central Canal. They also worked on the National Road. Many of these early settlers were Roman Catholic or Jewish.
Building Places of Worship
As more people arrived, they needed places to worship. St. John's was the first Catholic church. It was built in the mid-1850s. St. Mary's Church followed soon after. But the community kept growing. So, in 1875, land was bought for Sacred Heart Catholic Church. This area was mostly farmland back then.
The African American Community
Between the 1840s and 1850s, many African Americans moved to Indianapolis. They settled in the south side of the city. By 1875, South Calvary Baptist Church was built. This church offered spiritual support. It also helped with social and economic issues.
The Jewish Community
Jewish citizens also moved to Indianapolis. They needed help settling into their new homes. In 1856, the first Jewish group was formed. It was called the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. Later, in 1914, the Jewish Federation built a "settlement house." This was a community center on Morris Street in the Southside. It helped new families adjust to city life.
A Growing Neighborhood
By 1890, the near south side of Indianapolis was very busy. It had many people living there. This area had the highest number of people born in other countries. It was a diverse and lively part of the city.
