List of Indiana state historical markers in Putnam County facts for kids
Have you ever seen a special sign by the road that tells you about something important that happened a long time ago? These are called historical markers, and they help us learn about the past! This article is about the official state historical markers you can find in Putnam County, Indiana. These markers are placed by the Indiana Historical Bureau to remember important people, places, and events in Indiana's history.
There are three historical markers in Putnam County, each telling a unique story about the area's past. They help us explore everything from old treaties with Native Americans to the founding of important organizations.
Contents
Exploring Putnam County's History
Historical markers are like outdoor history books. They stand in places where history was made, giving us a glimpse into what life was like long ago. Let's discover the stories behind Putnam County's markers.
The 10 O'Clock Treaty Line
This marker was placed in 1966 and tells the story of the 10 O'Clock Treaty Line. This line marks a very old boundary from a treaty signed in 1809. The treaty was an agreement between the United States government and several Native American tribes, including the Miami, Potawatomi, Delaware, and Wea.
The name "10 O'Clock Treaty Line" comes from how the boundary was described. It was a line that started at a certain point and then went in a specific direction, like the shadow of a stick at 10 o'clock in the morning. This line helped define land ownership in the early days of Indiana. You can find this marker on the westbound side of U.S. Route 40, about half a mile east of the Clay County line. It reminds us of the early days of settlement and the important agreements made with Native American communities.
Portland Mills: A Historic Town
The Portland Mills marker was put up in 1972. It celebrates a historic town called Portland Mills, which was once a busy community. This marker is located near the junction of County Roads 900W and 800N, at the Calvert Shelter in the Portland Mills Picnic Area, which is part of the Raccoon State Recreation Area.
Portland Mills was an important settlement in its time, with homes, businesses, and a strong community spirit. Historical markers like this one help us remember towns and neighborhoods that played a big part in the development of an area, even if they are not as big or busy today. It's a great spot to imagine what life was like in a small, thriving town many years ago.
Kappa Alpha Theta: A Pioneer for Women's Education
The newest marker in Putnam County, placed in 2006, honors Kappa Alpha Theta. This organization was the very first Greek-letter fraternity for women, founded right here in Greencastle at DePauw University in 1870. You can find this marker at 904 College Road in Greencastle.
Kappa Alpha Theta was started by four brave young women: Bettie Locke Hamilton, Alice Allen Bartlett, Bettie Tipton Lindsey, and Hannah Fitch Shaw. At a time when higher education for women was not common, these women created a group that supported female students and encouraged their academic and personal growth. This marker celebrates their pioneering spirit and their important role in the history of women's education and organizations. It shows how much progress has been made in giving everyone the chance to learn and succeed.
See also
- List of Indiana state historical markers
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Putnam County, Indiana
