Indiana Archives – Access Genealogy

History of Farmersburg Indiana, 1853-1953

Centennial, Farmersburg, Indiana, 1853-1953

The Farmersburg Centennial, held from June 14-20, 1953, marked the 100th anniversary of Farmersburg, Indiana, commemorating its founding in 1853. Sponsored by the Farmersburg Community Club, this celebration highlighted the town’s rich history and progress over a century. The centennial events, including historical exhibits, parades, and community gatherings, was not just a reflection on the past but a commitment to building a future that honored the vision and perseverance of its founders. To commemorate this 100yr event, a committee was formed to create this souvenir book showcasing the town’s history.

Eel River Indians

The Eel River Indians were a part of the Miami, formerly living in Indiana. Their village was at Thorntown, Boone County, where they had a reservation, which was sold in 1828, the band removing to the Miami Reservation between the Wabash and Eel rivers, in Miami County. They afterward shared the general fortunes of the tribe.

Down in the Hills o’ Brown County

“Down in the Hills o’ Brown County,” written by Frank M. Hohenberger provides a historical overview of Brown County, Indiana, highlighting its development from the early 19th century to the mid-20th century. The source initially details the county’s early economic activities, including salt mining, agriculture, and the establishment of mills and infrastructure. It then traces the emergence of Brown County as an artists’ colony, emphasizing the role of nature in attracting artists to the area. The source delves into the history of local newspapers, offering a glimpse into the evolution of media and communication in the county. Furthermore, it explores various aspects of Brown County’s cultural identity, touching upon topics such as gold prospecting, pottery making, tourism, and the preservation of traditional crafts like weaving. Through its accounts of early settlers, prominent figures, and anecdotes reflecting local life, “Down in the Hills o’ Brown County,” aims to capture the unique character and heritage of Brown County.

Vanderburgh County Indiana Will Abstracts, 1821-1873

Abstracts of over 600 wills for Vanderburgh County, Indiana, extracted by Mrs. Arthur C. Bitterman. Book A was typed by Mrs. James A. Gentry, book B typed by Mrs. Marvin J. Huff, and published as one by the Vanderburgh Chapter of the DAR. Book A primarily covers wills written or filed within the time period of 1823-1849 and book B includes the years of 1849-1873. In both cases there are wills that fall outside those dates.

History of Harlan Indiana, 1853-1953

The “Harlan Centennial, 1853-1953,” compiled by the Harlan Community Association, offers a comprehensive reflection on the history and development of Harlan, Indiana. This commemorative book was published in 1953 to mark the 100th anniversary of Harlan’s founding. The centennial celebration was a significant community effort, with extensive participation from local residents and detailed planning by various committees. The book includes messages from key figures, a detailed program of the centennial events, and historical narratives highlighting Harlan’s growth, notable personalities, and community milestones.

History of Lawrenceburg Indiana, 1803-1953

“History of Lawrenceburg, Indiana: Sesquicentennial Edition” by Ray C. Johnson is a detailed historical account of Lawrenceburg published to coincide with its 150th anniversary in 1953. This 100-page book explores the city’s origins, development, and significant events like the late 19th-century floods. It covers a range of topics including the establishment of local institutions such as schools, financial entities, and the courthouse. The book also profiles influential figures and analyzes the architectural and social evolution of the city. Moreover, it features historical advertisements that provide additional insights into the era’s local businesses and societal norms. This well-organized volume remains a crucial resource for anyone interested in the comprehensive history of Lawrenceburg despite some physical wear and layout issues.

INGenWeb – Indiana GenWeb

A list linking to the current INGenWeb county websites. INGenWeb is created by a group of volunteers as part of the USGenWeb Project working together to provide free genealogy websites for genealogical research in every county in Indiana.

Madison, Indiana: History and Highlights

“Madison, Indiana: History and Highlights” provides a detailed overview of Madison’s development since its establishment in 1808. As a strategic city beside the Ohio River, Madison flourished following its incorporation as a city in 1838. By the mid-19th century, it had become a significant commercial center, particularly noted for its pork-packing industry, only second to Chicago. Pioneering in rail connectivity and industrial diversification, Madison was home to varied enterprises like shipyards, starch factories, and iron foundries. Its cultural footprint included landmarks like Lanier Mansion and memorable events such as Jenny Lind’s concert in 1851. Madison now attracts over 150,000 visitors annually, cherished for its historical architecture, scenic views, and vibrant community.

A History of Newburgh Lodge No. 174, F. & A.M.

A History of Newburgh Lodge No. 174, F. & A.M. provides a historical account of the lodge, detailing its founding in Newburgh, Indiana, in 1854. It traces the origins to an inaugural meeting under a dispensation with key figures like Draper Chipman and Azel Freeman leading the lodge. The narrative connects local events such as the burial of Mason John W. Palmer in 1851, hinting at an earlier Masonic presence in Newburgh. The chapter also paints a vivid picture of Newburgh in the 1850s as a bustling river port with significant economic activity and cultural vibrancy, suggesting these factors contributed to the establishment of the Masonic lodge. I have provided you an index to the genealogical information found in the section on “Our First One Hundred Years” 1855-1955.

History of Waterloo Indiana, 1856-1956

The publication “Historical Celebration, Waterloo, 1856-1956: A Century of Progress in Living” commemorates the centennial of Waterloo, Indiana, reflecting on its development since its establishment in 1856 and serves as a history of Waterloo Indiana for those years. This official record, compiled by the Waterloo Centennial Commission, captures a detailed historical account from the town’s early days, spurred by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, to its evolution into a vibrant community by 1956. It covers the growth of local businesses, churches, schools, and public services, alongside the socio-economic changes marked by industrial and commercial advancements. The centennial celebration itself, with its parades and community involvement, is also highlighted, alongside stories of notable residents and transformative events.

Mortuary records of J. F. Lemen, Funeral Director, Bicknell, Indiana, 1912-1919

Mortality records of J F Lemen, Funeral Director, Bicknell, Indiana, 1912-1919

Typescript copied by Gladys C. Mclure, for the Francis Vigo Chapter, D.A.R., Vincennes, Indiana from the original records of J. F. Lemen, a funeral director. who served the Bicknell Indiana area from 1912-1919. give the name, age, place of burial of the deceased, date of death, and the names of parents when listed.

Idaville Community, A Century of Unity, 1860-1960

Idaville community centennial, a century of unity, 1860-1960

The “Idaville Community, A Century of Unity, 1860-1960” is a seminal work that offers a comprehensive look into the first century of Idaville and its neighboring townships within White County and Adams Township of Carroll County. Published by the Idaville Centennial Committee in 1960, this volume was crafted to commemorate the centennial celebration of these communities, highlighting a century marked by unity and growth. Through the diligent efforts of the Idaville Centennial Committee, this book was designed to preserve the memory of the pivotal moments that have shaped these areas.

The Logansport Story

“The Logansport Story” provides an extensive history of Logansport, Indiana, detailing the city from its earliest settlement to its thriving present. It chronicles the arrival of Alexander Chamberlain as the first permanent settler, the establishment of key institutions like the Cass County Circuit Court, and the birth of the first business. The circular touches on the cultural and social progress of the city, with mentions of the YWCA, the VFW, and numerous other clubs and organizations fostering community development. Notable events like the 1916 tornado and the devastating 1913 flood are recounted, alongside tributes to pivotal figures such as public officials, educators, and local heroes. The circular serves as both a comprehensive review of Logansport’s historical milestones and a homage to its influential residents.

History of Kentland Indiana, 1860-1960

Kentland-Newton County Centennial banner

The book “History of Kentland Indiana, 1860-1960,” published to commemorate the Kentland-Newton County centennial, offers a comprehensive look into the rich tapestry of life in Kentland, Indiana, over a hundred years. Compiled by the Centennial History Committee, this volume spans a wide array of topics, from the early trails and history of Kentland to its participation in various wars. It is free to read and download.

Elder James Martin of the District of Orangeburg South Carolina

Elder James Martin and his brother Simon Martin title page

Steve Malone’s work, “Elder James Martin of the Districts of Orangeburg, Lower Ninety-Six, Edgefield and Barnwell, South Carolina; Warren County, Kentucky; and Knox, Gibson, Posey and Vanderburgh Counties, Indiana Territory/Indiana, and his brother, Simon Martin of the Same Districts in South Carolina,” offers a meticulous exploration into the life of an individual whose existence paints a vivid picture of the American frontier during its formative years. Free to read or download.

A History of Sheridan Indiana

Millwood - Sheridan, 1860-1960 title page

In June of 1960, the Sheridan Indiana Centennial celebration took place and in the commemorative fashion of the day, a book was published about the history of the town of Sheridan up to that day. Sheridan started out as Millwood in 1866, a part of the township of Adams, but had to be renamed when they applied for a Post Office and found that the name of Millwood Indiana had already been taken. They then chose Sheridan after the Civil war general Phil Sheridan in about 1881 to 1885. This manuscript takes you on the journey of forming the town of Sheridan from George Boxley’s 1827 settlement in what was to become Adams township up until 1960. This review of the history is replete with photographs of the village and its people, in and of itself, an enjoyable view. This book is free to read or to download as a PDF.

Hoagland High School Yearbooks 1937-1968

The Hoagland High School yearbooks were published as the Ship’s log, starting with 1937 and continuing until the school was consolidated with the Monroeville High School and the new Heritage High School was created to principally serve the children of Hoagland, Monroeville, and Poe. This was during the year 1968. If the title and year is linked, then the yearbook is currently online for free reading and download.

Pioneer Women of Lake County, Indiana 1834 – 1850

This small manuscript features biographical sketches of pioneer women of Lake County, Indiana who lived within the county in 1834-1850. These 45 sketches were written by their direct descendants and compiled by historians Avis Bryant Brown of Crown Point, Indiana, and Ethel Alice Vinnedge of Creston, Indiana. These biographies will provide insight for the genealogist into the lives of the women and are listed below the digital book.

The Michael Fetter Family

Welcome to a journey through the annals of time, one that is deeply rooted in the lives of the Fetters family and the world they inhabited. The History of the Michael Fetters family, a culmination of a quarter-century worth of research, is an enriching tapestry of generational experiences, shared ambitions, and compelling stories that echo through centuries. This book invites you to traverse a fascinating timeline, beginning with an announcement of the discovery of the 1703/04 baptism of Johann Michael Vetter in Freinsheim, Germany. We then explore the lives of Vetter and his siblings, journeying with them as they brave the waves of migration to America between 1728 and 1738, escaping the Palatinate’s persistent turmoil and religious intolerance. With each chapter, we delve deeper into the narratives of the Fetters family, unfolding their tale of endurance and courage as they venture into the wild frontiers of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana.

Calumet District Telephone Directories

1923 Calumet District Telephone Directory

The Merrillville Branch of the Lake County Public Library have placed online several telephone directories for the Calumet District that previously were only available on Microfilm. The communities represented are Dyer, East Chicago, Griffith, Hammond, Highland, Indiana Harbor, Munster, St. John, and West Hammond in Indiana and Burnham, Lansing, and Whiting in Illinois.. These 28 directories were published by the Reuben H. Donnelley Corporation of Chicago twice annually, and those digitized cover the years of 1909-1960.