List of Indiana state historical markers in Lake County facts for kids
Have you ever seen a special sign that tells a story about the past? These are called historical markers, and they help us remember important people, places, or events. They are like outdoor history lessons!
In Lake County, Indiana, there are 14 official state historical markers. Each one shares a piece of history about this area. These markers are placed by the Indiana Historical Bureau to make sure these stories are not forgotten. Let's explore some of these cool markers and learn about Lake County's history!
Exploring Lake County's History Through Markers
Historical markers are usually made of metal and stand on a pole. They have words carved into them that explain why that spot is special. They teach us about many different things, from old roads to important schools and churches.
First Physician Marker
In Merrillville, you can find a marker for the "First Physician." This marker, placed in 1949, tells us about early medicine in the area. It also has a connection to the Underground Railroad, which was a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom. This shows how important early doctors were, not just for health, but sometimes for helping people in other ways too.
Great Sauk Trail Marker
Imagine a very old road that people used long, long ago. The "Great Sauk (Sac) Trail" marker in Merrillville, placed in 1966, points to one of these ancient paths. This trail was used by Native American tribes for travel and trade. Later, pioneers also used parts of it. It's a reminder of how people moved across the land centuries ago.
St. John's Lutheran Church Tolleston Marker
Churches often play a big role in a community's history. The "St. John's Lutheran Church Tolleston" marker in Gary was placed in 1976. It highlights the importance of religion and how different groups of people came to live in the area. Churches like this one were often central to the lives of early settlers and immigrants.
Dutch in the Calumet Region Marker
Did you know that many Dutch people settled in the Calumet Region? The "Dutch in the Calumet Region" marker in Highland, placed in 1992, celebrates this. It tells the story of how Dutch immigrants came to the area and contributed to its growth, especially in farming. It's a great example of how different cultures helped build Indiana.
St. John Township School, District #2 Marker
Schools are super important for a community's future. The "St. John Township School, District #2" marker in Schererville, placed in 1995, reminds us of early education. This marker shows where an old schoolhouse once stood, teaching generations of children. It highlights the value people placed on learning, even in the early days.
The Lincoln Highway – The "Ideal Section" Marker
The "Lincoln Highway" was one of America's first transcontinental highways, meaning it went all the way across the country! The marker in Schererville, placed in 1996, points to the "Ideal Section" of this famous road. This part was designed to be a perfect example of what a modern highway should look like. It's a cool piece of transportation history!
Froebel School Marker
Another important school in Gary is remembered by the "Froebel School" marker, placed in 2014. This marker tells us about the history of education in the city. Schools like Froebel were vital places for learning and community life for many years.
Stewart Settlement House Marker
The "Stewart Settlement House" marker in Gary, placed in 2014, tells a story about helping people. Settlement houses were places that offered support and services to people in need, especially new immigrants or families facing challenges. This marker highlights the efforts to build stronger communities and support African American residents in Gary.
Rep. Katie Hall Marker
The "Rep. Katie Hall (1938-2012), Origin of Dr MLK Day Law" marker in Gary, placed in 2019, honors a very important person. Representative Katie Hall was an African American politician from Gary. She played a key role in making Martin Luther King Jr. Day a national holiday. This marker celebrates her work and her impact on American history and civil rights.
City Church Marker
The "City Church" marker in Gary, placed in 2019, tells a story about faith, community, and growth. This marker highlights the role of the church in the lives of African American residents and also touches on immigration, business, and industry in the area.
Mt Zion MB Church Marker
In Hammond, the "Mt Zion MB Church" marker, placed in 2019, also focuses on religion and the African American community. Churches like Mt Zion were often more than just places of worship; they were centers for social life, support, and civil rights movements.
Gary Roosevelt High School Marker
"Gary Roosevelt High School" in Gary has its own marker, placed in 2020. This marker celebrates the history of this school, which has been an important place for education and for the African American community in Gary for many years. It's a reminder of the school's legacy and its impact on students' lives.
Indiana University Northwest Marker
Higher education is also important! The "Indiana University Northwest" marker in Gary, placed in 2021, recognizes this university. It highlights the role of colleges and libraries in providing advanced education and resources to the community.
Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus / 1918 Circus Train Wreck Marker
This marker tells a sad but important story. The "Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus / 1918 Circus Train Wreck" marker in Gary, placed in 2022, remembers a terrible train accident that happened in 1918. It involved a circus train and was a very tragic event in transportation history. This marker helps us remember the lives lost and the impact of the accident.
See also
- List of Indiana state historical markers
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Lake County, Indiana
