River View Cemetery

a.k.a. River View Cemetery / Inventory of Dearborn County

3635 E. Laughery Creek Rd., Aurora, IN
Local significance of the site:
Art; Architecture; Community Planning And Development; Landscape Architecture; Social History

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2013.

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.

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The limestone industry has played a significant role in Indiana's economy and culture. The state is often called the "Limestone Capital of the World" and the stone has been used in many notable buildings, including the Empire State Building in New York City.
Dearborn County, located in southeastern Indiana, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its establishment in 1803. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Miami and Shawnee, who used the fertile land for hunting and farming. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and began to establish farms and towns.

By the early 19th century, Dearborn County had become an important center of commerce and transportation due to its location along the Ohio River. Steamboats regularly traveled along the river, transporting goods and people to and from the county. The town of Lawrenceburg, which served as the county seat, became a hub of economic activity with industries such as mills, distilleries, and shipbuilding flourishing.

During the American Civil War, Dearborn County played a significant role, as it was situated on the border between the Union and Confederate territories. The county saw its fair share of battles and skirmishes, with both sides vying for control of the strategically important Ohio River. Lawrenceburg was occupied by Union troops early in the war, providing support and resources for the Union cause.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dearborn County experienced industrial growth, particularly in the automobile industry. The county was home to several automobile manufacturing companies, including the famous Stutz Motor Company. This led to an economic boom, with new jobs and businesses flourishing in the area.

Today, Dearborn County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history. It is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including the rolling hills of the Dearborn Highlands and the Ohio River. The county also maintains a strong agricultural tradition, with farms and farmers markets contributing to the local economy. Historic landmarks and museums provide a glimpse into the county's past, ensuring that its history is preserved and celebrated for future generations.

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

  • 1680: French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, claims the territory for France.
  • 1763: Treaty of Paris ends French and Indian War, transferring control of the area to Great Britain.
  • 1774: Richard Venable becomes the first recorded permanent settler in what is now Dearborn County.
  • 1795: Northwest Territory, including present-day Dearborn County, is established by the United States.
  • 1803: Dearborn County is officially created and named after Revolutionary War hero Henry Dearborn.
  • 1811: Lawrenceburg is established as the county seat of Dearborn County.
  • 1812-1815: Dearborn County plays a role in the War of 1812, with skirmishes occurring in the area.
  • 1838: The county's first railroad, the Madison and Indianapolis Railroad, begins operation.
  • 1843: Rising Sun is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1851: Aurora is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1862-1865: Many residents of Dearborn County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1895: Greendale is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1965: The Hollywood Casino opens in Lawrenceburg, becoming the first casino in the state of Indiana.