National Register Listing

Whitewater Canal Historic District

a.k.a. Whitewater Canal;Whitewater Canal State Museum

From Laurel Feeder Dam to Brookville, Metamora, IN
Local significance of the district:
Industry; Commerce; Transportation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

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.

industry commerce transportation
The Wabash River, which flows through western Indiana, was the inspiration for the state song, "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away," written by Paul Dresser in 1897. It became one of the most popular songs of its time and has since become a symbol of the state's heritage.
Indiana random facts
Franklin County, located in southeastern Indiana, has a rich history dating back to its settlement in the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee and Miami, who lived off the land and navigated the Whitewater River. The county gets its name from Benjamin Franklin, a prominent founding father of the United States.

In 1803, the first permanent settlers arrived in what would become Franklin County, establishing small communities such as Brookville and Laurel. These early pioneers relied heavily on agriculture, with farms sprouting up across the fertile land. The arrival of the Whitewater Canal in the 1840s further stimulated the growth of the county, allowing for the transportation of goods and boosting economic development.

During the mid-19th century, Franklin County played a significant role in the Underground Railroad. Many residents were abolitionists who provided safe havens and assistance to escaped slaves on their journey to freedom. The historic Whitewater Meeting House served as an important gathering point for anti-slavery activists.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed periods of prosperity and challenges for Franklin County. The railroad industry flourished, connecting the county to larger markets and facilitating the growth of towns. However, the Great Depression brought economic hardship, leading to the decline of many industries and a period of recovery that lasted well into the 20th century.

Today, Franklin County continues to embrace its agricultural roots while showcasing its rich history. The county is known for its charming small towns, beautiful natural landscapes, and historical sites, such as the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site and the Franklin County Historical and Museum Society. The county's history and close-knit community make it a beloved place to live and visit for those seeking a taste of small-town Americana.

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

  • 1807: Franklin County is officially established
  • 1811: Brookville is named the county seat
  • 1816: Indiana becomes a state
  • 1837: Construction of the Whitewater Canal begins
  • 1861: Franklin County supports the Union during the Civil War
  • 1897: The Liberty Bell passes through Brookville during its national tour
  • 1932: The Brookville Lake and Dam project begins
  • 1996: The Whitewater Canal is designated as a National Historic Landmark
  • 2008: The Franklin County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places