Wabash & Erie Canal

Historical marker location:
Logansport, Indiana
( Marker is at the intersection of North 5th Street and North Street, on the left when traveling north on North 5th Street.)
Marker installed: 1966

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The name "Indiana" means "Land of the Indians" and was chosen in reference to the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area.
Cass County, Indiana has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Miami, Kickapoo, and Pottawatomie. In the early 1800s, European settlers began moving into the region, attracted by the fertile land and potential for farming.

In 1828, the county was officially established and named after Lewis Cass, who was serving as the governor of Michigan Territory at the time. The town of Logansport was chosen as the county seat, and it quickly became a thriving center for trade and transportation. The Wabash and Erie Canal, completed in 1843, further boosted the town's economy by providing a vital link between Lake Erie and the Ohio River.

During the Civil War, Cass County played a significant role in supporting the Union cause. Many local residents enlisted in the Union Army, and Logansport became an important military hub, providing supplies and troops to the front lines. After the war, the town continued to grow and develop as industries such as manufacturing and agriculture flourished.

In the 20th century, Cass County experienced further growth and modernization. The discovery of natural gas in the area led to the establishment of several gas-powered industries, including glass manufacturing and a large power plant. The development of transportation infrastructure, including highways and railroads, further connected Cass County to the rest of the country.

Today, Cass County remains a vibrant community with a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. The county is also home to a variety of cultural and recreational attractions, such as the Cass County Historical Society Museum and the Haynes Apperson Festival, which celebrates the county's automotive heritage.

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

  • 1828 - Cass County is established by an act of the Indiana General Assembly.
  • 1830s - The first settlements are established in the county, including the town of Logansport.
  • 1835 - The County Seat is established in Logansport.
  • 1846 - The Wabash and Erie Canal is completed, bringing economic growth to the county.
  • 1851 - The first railroad is built in the county, connecting Logansport to other cities.
  • 1861-1865 - Cass County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1875 - The Great Logansport Fire destroys a large portion of the city, leading to its rebuilding.
  • 1896 - The New York Central Railroad establishes a major repair and maintenance center in Logansport.
  • 1920s - The county experiences growth in industries such as automobile manufacturing and coal mining.
  • 1956 - The construction of highways and the development of the interstate system connect Cass County to other regions.
  • 1970s - Business and industrial development continues, with a focus on diversifying the local economy.
  • Present - Cass County remains a vibrant community, with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.