National Register of Historic Places listings in DeKalb County, Indiana facts for kids
Have you ever wondered about old buildings and places that have a special story? In DeKalb County, Indiana, there are many such places! These are buildings, homes, and areas that are so important to history that they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This special list helps protect and celebrate places that tell us about the past in Indiana and the United States.
There are 29 amazing places in DeKalb County on this list. One of them is even a National Historic Landmark, which means it's super important to the history of the entire country! These places can be found in cities like Auburn, Garrett, and Butler, or in the countryside in different townships.
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What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is like a special club for buildings, sites, and objects that are important in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is added to this list, it means it's recognized for its value and often gets some protection. It helps people understand and appreciate the history around them.
Cool Historic Buildings and Places
DeKalb County has a variety of historic places, from old homes to unique museums and even bridges!
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum
One of the most exciting places on the list is the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in Auburn. This isn't just any museum; it's a National Historic Landmark! It's located in the old factory where famous luxury cars like Auburns, Cords, and Duesenbergs were once made. Imagine cars from the 1920s and 1930s – they were super fancy and fast for their time. The museum lets you step back in time and see these amazing vehicles up close. It's a must-see for anyone who loves cars or history!
Historic Downtown Areas
Some entire parts of towns are considered historic! These are called Historic Districts. They include many old buildings that together tell the story of how a town grew and changed.
- Downtown Auburn Historic District: This area in Auburn includes many buildings that show what the town looked like long ago. It's roughly around 4th Street, Cedar Street, 12th Street, and Jackson Street.
- Downtown Butler Historic District: In Butler, the 100 and 200 blocks of South Broadway are recognized as a historic district. These buildings have seen a lot of history unfold!
- Garrett Historic District: Garrett also has a historic district, roughly bounded by Railroad, Britton, Warfield, and Hamsher Streets, and 3rd Avenue. Walking through these areas is like taking a trip back in time.
Unique Structures
DeKalb County also has some very unique historic structures.
- Spencerville Covered Bridge:
Located at County Road 68 in Spencerville, this bridge is a true piece of history. Covered bridges were once common, protecting the wooden structure from the weather. This one is a beautiful example of old engineering and craftsmanship. It's a great spot to visit and imagine what travel was like long ago.
- Maria and Franklin Wiltrout Polygonal Barn:
Near Corunna, you can find this very special barn. It's called "polygonal" because it has many sides, not just four like a typical barn. This unique design was popular for a short time and shows how people experimented with building styles. It's a rare and interesting piece of agricultural history.
Other Notable Places
Many other buildings are on the list, each with its own story:
- Eckhart Public Library and Park in Auburn: This library is not just a place for books; it's a historic building with beautiful architecture.
- Community Mausoleums: There are community mausoleums in Auburn, Butler, Garrett, and Waterloo. These are large buildings where people are buried, and they often have interesting designs and history.
- Old Farmhouses and Homes: Many historic homes and farmhouses are listed, like the Samuel Bevier House, Joseph Bowman Farmhouse, William Cornell Homestead, and the Orin Clark House. These homes give us a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and families in DeKalb County.
- Keyser Township School 8: This old school building in Garrett reminds us of how education used to be.
These are just a few examples of the many important historic places in DeKalb County. Each one helps us learn about the past and appreciate the rich history of the area.
Images for kids
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Auburn Community Mausoleum
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Samuel Bevier House
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Joseph Bowman Farmhouse
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Breechbill-Davidson House
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Brethren in Christ Church
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Butler Community Mausoleum
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Orin Clark House
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William Cornell Homestead
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DeKalb County Home and Barn
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Downtown Auburn Historic District
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Downtown Butler Historic District
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Eckhart Public Library and Park
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William Fountain House
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Garrett Community Mausoleum
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Garrett Historic District
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Gump House
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J.H. Haag House
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Edward Kelham House
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Keyser Township School 8
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Charles Lehmback Farmstead
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Mountz House
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Henry Peters House
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Rakestraw House
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Henry Shull Farmhouse Inn
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Waterloo Community Mausoleum
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John Wilderson House
