Palestine, Lawrence County, Indiana facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Palestine, Indiana
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Extinct town
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 Palestine, Lawrence County, Indiana
Location in Indiana
Palestine, Lawrence County, Indiana
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Indiana |
| County | Lawrence |
| Township | Shawswick |
| Elevation | 492 ft (150 m) |
| ZIP code |
47421
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Palestine was once a small town in Lawrence County, Indiana. It is now an abandoned place. From 1818 to 1825, Palestine was the main town, or "county seat," for Lawrence County. This meant it was the center for government and legal activities. Later, Bedford became the new county seat.
History of Palestine, Indiana
Palestine was started on May 25, 1818. Two people named Benjamin and Ezekiel Blackwell founded the town. It grew steadily for some time. People even thought Palestine might become the new capital city for the state of Indiana. This was because it sat high up on a bluff overlooking the White River.
Palestine's Early Days
However, Palestine did not win the vote to become the state capital. Indianapolis was chosen instead the next year. In January 1819, a courthouse was built in Palestine. This building was important for legal matters in the county. The father of Joseph A. Wright, who later became a governor of Indiana, helped build its stone foundation.
Palestine was a thriving town in Southern Indiana. In the 1820 United States Census, it had a population of about 600 to 700 people. Joseph Glover, who lived in Palestine, was the very first sheriff of the county. He also brought the first clock to the area.
Decline of the Town
Sadly, the town of Palestine faced a big problem. Many people in the city became sick with malaria. This led to a fast drop in the number of people living there over the next ten years. Because of this health crisis, the county seat was moved. In 1825, the main government offices moved to the city of Bedford. The courthouse for Lawrence County is still in Bedford today.
