National Register Listing

Carroll County Courthouse

101 W. Main St., Delphi, IN
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Politics/government; Art

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture politics government art law courthouses buildings
The first public demonstration of the electric light bulb was given by Thomas Edison in Menlo Park, New Jersey, but the first practical incandescent light bulb was invented by Lewis Howard Latimer, who was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, but lived in Indiana for a time. Latimer was also the first African American to be employed as an engineer by the U.S. Patent Office.
Indiana random facts
Carroll County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1828. The county was named after Charles Carroll of Maryland, who was the last living signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence at that time. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Potawatomi, before European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers in Carroll County came in the early 1820s, drawn by the fertile land and the opportunity for new beginnings. The county's early economy was largely agrarian, with farming being the primary occupation. The Wabash and Erie Canal, completed in 1856, brought further economic growth and facilitated the transportation of goods and people.

Carroll County played a role in the American Civil War, with many of its residents enlisting in the Union Army. The county's close proximity to the Confederate-aligned state of Kentucky made it an important strategic location. Additionally, during this time, the county experienced a period of growth and development, with the establishment of new businesses and schools.

In the late 19th and 20th centuries, Carroll County continued to evolve and adapt. The growth of railroad networks and the discovery of natural gas and oil deposits brought new industries and prosperity. The county also saw advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Today, Carroll County has a strong sense of community and is known for its agricultural heritage, historic sites, and annual festivals that celebrate its vibrant past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Carroll County, Indiana.

  • 1819 - Carroll County was established on November 1, named after Charles Carroll of Carrollton, a signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
  • 1828 - The county seat was established and named Delphi.
  • 1830 - The Wabash and Erie Canal opened, stimulating economic growth in Carroll County.
  • 1844 - The first courthouse was built in Delphi.
  • 1861-1865 - Carroll County residents served in the American Civil War.
  • 1873 - The present-day courthouse was completed.
  • 1887 - The Lake Maxinkuckee and Manchester Railroad was built, connecting Carroll County to neighboring communities.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression led to economic hardships in Carroll County.
  • 1971 - The Carroll County Historical Society was established to preserve the history of the area.
  • 1998 - The county celebrated its 175th anniversary.
  • 2011 - Carroll County was heavily affected by an EF3 tornado that caused significant damage in the area.