Historical Markers in
Floyd County, Indiana

A Gateway to Freedom Buffalo Trace Route Carnegie's Lasting Gifts Culbertson Mansion Culbertson Widows' Home Division Street School Floyd County American Revolution War Memorial Floyd County Honor Roll & Veterans Memorial Floyd County World Peace Honor Roll Floyd County World War I Memorial Founding of New Albany George W. Waltz Georgetown Honoring Our Heroes Korean Conflict / Vietnam Conflict - Floyd County Lucy Higgs Nichols Memories of Division Mob Violence, 1862 New Albany New Albany Downtown Historic District New Albany National Cemetery New Albany National Cemetery New Albany's Carnegie Library New Albany's First Bank Building Nunemacher-Hangary House Old New Albany Patrick Shields Scribner High School Scribner House State Bank of Indiana The Israel House The Robert E. Lee Built Here Veterans Memorial Western Line of the Clark (Illinois) Grant Windsor Hotel
The first recorded train robbery in the United States took place in Indiana in 1866. A gang of thieves robbed the Jeffersonville, Madison, and Indianapolis Railroad, making off with over $96,000 in cash and gold.
Indiana random facts
Floyd County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area originally served as a hunting ground for Native American tribes, such as the Shawnee and Miami. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, with John Floyd being one of the first settlers in the area. The county was officially established in 1819 and named in his honor.

The county played an important role during the early years of the United States. It served as a major transportation hub along the Ohio River, connecting the Eastern states with the expanding Western frontier. The town of New Albany, located in Floyd County, became a bustling port and industrial center, attracting immigrants and entrepreneurs from around the world. The county's proximity to Louisville, Kentucky, also contributed to its growth and development.

During the 19th century, Floyd County experienced significant economic growth, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping industries. The county became known for its thriving steamboat business, as well as its production of steam engines, furniture, whiskey, and tobacco. The advent of the railroad further enhanced transportation and trade opportunities, allowing for increased economic prosperity.

Floyd County has also witnessed its fair share of historical events. It was impacted by the Civil War, serving as a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces. The Battle of Corydon, the only battle fought in Indiana during the war, took place in Floyd County in 1863. In more recent history, the county has seen periods of growth, decline, and revitalization. Today, Floyd County remains a vibrant community, known for its historical charm, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Floyd County, Indiana.

  • 1800 - Floyd County is established on January 2, 1800.
  • 1811 - John James Audubon, the famous ornithologist, arrives in the area.
  • 1829 - The town of New Albany is founded.
  • 1844 - The Louisville, New Albany and Salem Railroad is completed, connecting the county to other major cities.
  • 1863 - During the American Civil War, New Albany becomes an important supply center for the Union Army.
  • 1873 - Carnegie Library is constructed in New Albany, providing educational resources to the community.
  • 1893 - The Louisville and Jeffersonville Bridge (later known as the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge) is completed, enhancing transportation between Floyd County and Kentucky.
  • 1929 - The Great Depression impacts the county's economy, leading to significant financial challenges.
  • 1964 - Interstate 64 is completed, further improving transportation infrastructure in the county.
  • 2000 - Historic preservation efforts are strengthened, leading to the recognition and restoration of many historic buildings in New Albany.