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Tippecanoe Battlefield Park facts for kids

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Tippecanoe Battlefield
U.S. Historic district
Contributing property
Tippecanoe Battlefield Moument.jpg
Tippecanoe Monument
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park is located in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park
Location in Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park is located in Indiana
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park
Location in Indiana
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park is located in the United States
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park
Location in the United States
Nearest city Lafayette, Indiana
Built 1811
Part of Battle Ground Historic District (ID85001639)
NRHP reference No. 66000013
Quick facts for kids
Significant dates
Added to NRHP October 15, 1966
Designated NHL October 9, 1960
Designated CP July 23, 1985

The Tippecanoe Battlefield Park is a special place in Indiana. It protects the exact spot where the Battle of Tippecanoe happened on November 7, 1811. This battle was an important event in American history.

The battle site covers about 16 acres (6.5 hectares). John Tipton, who fought in the battle, gave this land to the State of Indiana on November 7, 1836. This was 25 years after the battle took place.

In its early years, the site was used for big political meetings. One very important meeting was on May 29, 1840. About 30,000 people gathered there to support William Henry Harrison. He was running to become the President of the United States.

By the 1850s, many people were visiting the battlefield. A railroad line was built next to the site, making it easier for visitors to arrive. A small shop was also built nearby to sell refreshments. Later, a church group bought this land. They used it for a school and then for a youth camp.

In 1960, the battlefield was named a National Historical Landmark. This means it is a very important historical place in the United States. It is also part of the Battle Ground Historic District.

The youth camp closed in 1971, and the site was not well cared for for a while. However, local people bought the property and opened a museum in the old camp building. In 1990, this group joined with the Tippecanoe County Historical Association. This association now runs the museum. The museum was updated in 1995 to make it even better for visitors.

The main monument at the battlefield was given to the Tippecanoe County Park Board in 1972. They help to look after this important historical site.

Visiting Tippecanoe Battlefield Park

William Henry Harrison Statue Tippecanoe Battlefield Monument
William Henry Harrison sculpture by John H. Mahoney

Tippecanoe Battlefield Park offers many fun things to do and see. It's a great place to learn about history and enjoy nature.

  • Hiking Trails: You can walk on trails, including part of the Wabash Heritage Trail.
  • Nature Center: Learn about the local plants and animals.
  • Battlefield Monument: See the tall monument that honors those who fought.
  • Museum: Explore exhibits and artifacts from the Battle of Tippecanoe.

The Tippecanoe County Park Board manages the park itself. The Tippecanoe County Historical Association runs the museum. Together, they help keep this historic site open for everyone to enjoy.

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