National Register of Historic Places listings in Orange County, Indiana facts for kids
This article is about the cool, old places in Orange County, Indiana that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it as a special list of buildings, areas, and sites that are super important to American history and culture!
These places are chosen because they tell a story about the past. They could be old houses, churches, hotels, or even whole neighborhoods. In Orange County, there are 16 of these special spots. One of them is even a National Historic Landmark, which is an even higher honor!
You can find these historic places in towns like Paoli, West Baden Springs, and French Lick. Some are also in the countryside, in areas called civil townships.
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Discovering Orange County's Historic Treasures
Orange County, Indiana, is home to many amazing historic places. These sites are protected because they teach us about the past. Let's explore some of these cool spots!
Historic Homes and Buildings
Orange County has several old homes and buildings that are worth learning about.
Thomas Newby Braxtan House
The Thomas Newby Braxtan House is located at 210 N. Gospel St. in Paoli. This beautiful house was added to the National Register on June 29, 1989. It's a great example of the architecture from its time.
Thomas Elwood Lindley House
The Thomas Elwood Lindley House can be found on Willow Creek Road, just west of Paoli. This historic home was recognized on September 12, 1985. It stands as a reminder of the early settlers in the area.
Homestead Hotel
In West Baden Springs, you'll find the Homestead Hotel on State Road 56. It was added to the list on August 14, 1998. This hotel played a part in the town's history as a popular resort destination.
Oxford Hotel
Another historic hotel in West Baden Springs is the Oxford Hotel, also on State Road 56. It became a historic site on September 16, 2001. These old hotels show how important tourism was to the area.
Important Public Buildings
Some of Orange County's most important public buildings are also on the National Register.
Orange County Courthouse
The Orange County Courthouse is right in the Public Square in Paoli. This grand building was added to the National Register on February 24, 1975. Courthouses are often the heart of a county's government and history.
West Baden National Bank
The West Baden National Bank is located on State Road 56 near the famous West Baden Springs Hotel entrance. It was listed on September 16, 1993. Banks are important for a town's economy and often have interesting architecture.
Churches and Schools
Places of worship and learning also hold special historical value.
First Baptist Church (West Baden Springs)
The First Baptist Church in West Baden Springs is at the corner of Elm and Sinclair Streets. This church was added to the National Register on March 28, 1994. It's a significant part of the community's spiritual history.
Lynd School
The Lynd School is located at 723 N. Lynd Road in Stampers Creek Township. This old schoolhouse was listed on October 16, 2002. It reminds us of how education used to be in rural areas.
Newberry Friends Meeting House
The Newberry Friends Meeting House is found on U.S. Route 150/State Road 56, west of Paoli. This meeting house, added on January 11, 1996, is a historic place of worship for the Friends (Quaker) community.
Famous Hotels and Districts
Orange County is known for its grand hotels and charming historic districts.
French Lick Springs Hotel
The French Lick Springs Hotel is a very famous spot at 8670 W. State Road 56 in French Lick. It became a historic district on September 28, 2003. This hotel has welcomed many famous guests over the years.
West Baden Springs Hotel
The West Baden Springs Hotel is west of State Road 56 in West Baden Springs. It's a National Historic Landmark, which is a really big deal! It was listed on June 27, 1974. This hotel is famous for its huge dome, which was once the largest in the world.
Dixie Garage
The Dixie Garage is at the intersection of State Road 56 and Sinclair Avenue in West Baden Springs. This unique garage was added to the list on September 16, 2001. It shows how cars and travel changed the area.
Jenkins Place
Jenkins Place is located at 448-488 Liberty Road in Orleans. This historic district was recognized on March 31, 2010. It represents a significant part of Orleans' past.
Orleans Historic District
The Orleans Historic District covers a large area in Orleans, roughly bounded by Wilson, Franklin, Harrison, and 4th Streets. It was listed on September 24, 2009. Walking through this district is like stepping back in time!
Paoli Historic District
The Paoli Historic District is in Paoli, roughly bounded by W. 5th, Railroad, and NE. 3rd Streets, and Lick Creek. This district was added on November 25, 1994. It includes many of Paoli's important historic buildings and areas.
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Location of Orange County in Indiana
