List of Indiana state historical markers in Washington County facts for kids
Welcome to Washington County, Indiana! This page is all about the special historical markers you can find here. These markers are like outdoor signs that tell us important stories from the past. They help us remember people, places, and events that shaped Washington County.
There are 6 official state historical markers in Washington County. Each one shares a piece of history, from old battles to ancient glaciers. Let's explore them!
Historical Markers in Washington County
Morgan's Raid: A Civil War Story
In 1863, during the American Civil War, a group of Confederate soldiers led by General John Hunt Morgan rode through Indiana. This event was called Morgan's Raid. On July 10, 1863, Morgan's cavalry reached Salem. They took over the town, stole supplies, and even burned some buildings.
This marker tells the story of that day. It reminds us that the Civil War reached far beyond the main battlefields, even affecting small towns like Salem. You can find this marker on the south side of the Washington County Courthouse in Salem.
Brock Cemetery: Pioneers and Early Settlers
The Brock Cemetery marker tells us about the very first people who settled in this area. Pioneers were brave families who moved to new lands to build homes and communities. This cemetery is a resting place for some of those early settlers.
It helps us remember the challenges and hard work involved in creating a new life in Indiana long ago. The marker is located on State Road 135, just north of Salem, near the Brock Creek bridge.
Illinoian Glacier Boundary: Ice Age History
Imagine a time when huge sheets of ice covered much of North America! This marker, called the Illinoian Glacier Boundary, points out where one of these giant glaciers stopped. The Illinoian Glacier was active hundreds of thousands of years ago during the Ice Age.
As the glacier moved, it carved out valleys and left behind rocks and soil. This marker shows us how powerful nature can be and how it shaped the land we live on today. You can see it north of Salem, where State Road 135 meets Lick Skillet Road.
Washington County Courthouse and Historic Downtown
The Washington County Courthouse is a very important building in Salem. It's where local government decisions are made. This marker celebrates not only the courthouse but also the entire Salem Downtown Historic District.
A historic district is an area with many old buildings that have special architectural or historical value. This marker helps us appreciate the beautiful old buildings and the history of Salem's town center. It's located on the north side of the Washington County Courthouse.
Skirmish Near Pekin: Another Civil War Moment
Just like Morgan's Raid, the Skirmish Near Pekin marker reminds us of another small battle during the Civil War. A "skirmish" is a short, unplanned fight between small groups of soldiers.
This marker tells the story of a brief conflict that happened near Pekin. It shows that even small towns could be touched by the big events of the war. You can find this marker near Greenbriar Road West, close to Pekin.
Sarah Parke Morrison: A Trailblazing Woman
Sarah Parke Morrison was a remarkable woman from Salem. This marker honors her achievements. She was a pioneer in education and religion. Sarah was one of the first women to attend and graduate from Indiana University. She later became the first female faculty member at the university.
Her story is inspiring because she broke barriers and showed that women could achieve great things in education and beyond. This marker is located along N. Shelby St. in Salem, between Salem High School and Ascension St. Vincent Salem Hospital.
Images for kids
-
The Washington County Courthouse in Salem
-
The historic square in Salem, Indiana
