List of Indiana state historical markers in Franklin County facts for kids
This article is about the special signs, called Indiana state historical markers, found in Franklin County. These markers are like outdoor history books, telling us important stories about places, people, and events that happened long ago in Franklin County, Indiana. The Indiana Historical Bureau places these markers to help everyone learn about the past. There are 14 historical markers in Franklin County, each sharing a unique piece of history.
Exploring Franklin County's Past
Franklin County is full of interesting history, and these markers help us discover it. Let's explore some of the stories they tell!
Whitewater Canal: A Watery Highway
The Whitewater Canal marker tells us about a very important waterway built a long time ago. Canals were like man-made rivers that helped boats carry goods and people across the state. This marker is found near Gordon's Lock #24, which was a special part of the canal that helped boats move up and down different water levels. It reminds us of how people used to travel and trade before trains and cars were common.
Little Cedar Grove Baptist Church: An Old Place of Worship
The Little Cedar Grove Baptist Church marker points to a very old church building. This church was built in 1812 and is one of the oldest church buildings still standing in Indiana! It shows us how important faith and community were to the early settlers of Franklin County.
Whetzel Trace: An Early Road
The Whetzel Trace marker tells the story of one of the first important paths or "traces" in Indiana. It was created between 1818 and 1823 by Jacob Whetzel and his team. This trace helped pioneers move into central Indiana, opening up new areas for settlement. It was a very early "road" that helped people explore and settle the land.
Brookville, Franklin County: A Town's Beginning
The marker for Brookville, Franklin County celebrates the founding of the town. Brookville was officially planned and laid out in 1808. This marker helps us remember the early days of one of Franklin County's main towns and how it grew over time.
Academy of the Immaculate Conception: Learning and Faith
The Academy of the Immaculate Conception marker highlights an important school in Oldenburg. This academy was founded by the Sisters of St. Francis and has been a place of education and religious life for many years. It shows the strong connection between education and faith in the community's history.
Brookville Historic District: Preserving the Past
The Brookville Historic District marker celebrates an area in Brookville where many old and important buildings are preserved. This district helps us see what the town looked like in its early days and protects its historic charm. It's a reminder of the town's long history and its early settlers.
Old Franklin United Brethren Church: A Pioneer Church
The Old Franklin United Brethren Church marker points to another early church that played a big role in the lives of the first settlers. This church was a center for community and worship for pioneers in the area. It reminds us of the strong religious roots of Franklin County.
Brookville's Carnegie Library: A Gift of Knowledge
The Brookville's Carnegie Library marker tells us about a special library building. Many towns in the early 1900s received money from a rich businessman named Andrew Carnegie to build libraries. This marker celebrates Brookville's library, which has been a place for learning and reading for generations.
Intersection of Treaty Lines: Where Borders Met
The Intersection of Treaty Lines marker marks a spot where important lines from old treaties met. Treaties were agreements, often between the United States government and Native American tribes, that set boundaries for land. This marker shows where these historical lines crossed, reminding us of how the land was divided and settled.
Brookville's Grandstand: A Place for Fun
The Brookville's Grandstand marker highlights a historic structure in the town park. Grandstands are often found at fairgrounds or sports fields, where people gather to watch events. This marker celebrates a place where the community has come together for entertainment and sports for many years.
Snow Hill Covered Bridge: A Beautiful Crossing
The Snow Hill Covered Bridge marker points to a classic covered bridge. Covered bridges were popular in the past because the roof protected the wooden structure from weather, making them last longer. This marker celebrates a beautiful piece of transportation history in Franklin County.
Brigadier-General CSA Francis Asbury Shoup: A Military Figure
The Brigadier-General CSA Francis Asbury Shoup marker remembers a person who played a role in military history. Francis Asbury Shoup was a general during the American Civil War. This marker helps us learn about individuals who were part of important historical events.
Passenger Pigeon Extinction: A Sad Story of Nature
The Passenger Pigeon Extinction marker tells a sad but important story about nature. Passenger pigeons were once one of the most common birds in North America, but they became extinct in the early 1900s due to overhunting and habitat loss. This marker reminds us of the importance of protecting wildlife and our environment.
Lester "Marvelo" Lake: A Local Performer
The Lester "Marvelo" Lake 1904-1977 marker celebrates a local person named Lester Lake, who was known as "Marvelo." He was a performer, likely an entertainer or magician, who brought joy to people. This marker helps us remember the interesting people who have lived in Franklin County.
See also
- List of Indiana state historical markers
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Franklin County, Indiana