Grant County, Indiana

American Actor James Dean Battle of Mississinewa Birthplace of James Dean Chief Meshingomesia Cool Cat Garfield Covered Bridge Cumberland Covered Bridge Eternal Flame Of Peace Fairmount Masonic Lodge #635 F & AM Former Narrow Gauge Railroad Gas City Veterans Memorial Glass Blower Garfield Grant County (Indiana) Veterans Memorial Grant County (Indiana) Vietnam War Memorial Grant County Veterans Memorial In Memory of David Branson In Memory Of William J. Leach J.W. Patterson House James Dean 1931-1955 Korean War Honor Roll - Grant County (Indiana) Lt. Col. Thomas W. (Bill) Boles Marion (Indiana) W.W. I Honor Roll Marion Branch NHDVS Marion National Cemetery Martin Boots Matthews Veterans Memorial Memorial Point Korea and Vietnam Memorial Memorial Point Veterans Honor Roll Memorial Point World War I Memorial Memorial Point World War II Memorial Miami Indian Cemetery Mildred Marie Wilson Dean Mississinewa Battlefield New Purchase Boundary Old Fairmount High School Bricks Persian Gulf Veterans Memorial Phi Delta Kappa Fraternity The Avalon Hotel The Calvin Dillon House The Enoch Beals House The Frank Zigler House The John H. Wilson House The M. J. Millspaugh House The Village of Trask This Covered Bridge Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Veterans Memorial Flag Poll Veterans Memorial Flag Poll Way Station Weaver Cemetery Weaver Settlement West Ward School WW II Grant County (Indiana) Veterans Memorial "Jimmy Dean Was Here" "Jimmy Dean Was Here" "Jimmy Dean Was Here"
Grant County, located in the state of Indiana, has a rich and vibrant history that stretches back thousands of years. The area was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Miami and the Delaware people. European settlers began arriving in the early 1800s, attracted by the region's fertile land and opportunities for farming.

The county itself was established in 1831 and named after Captain Samuel Grant, a pioneer settler and Indian fighter. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought significant growth and prosperity to the area. Marion, the county seat, became a hub for trade and commerce, attracting businesses and industries.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Grant County experienced a boom in manufacturing. The discovery of natural gas reserves in the region led to the establishment of numerous gas-powered industries, transforming the county into a significant industrial center. Companies like the Marion Chemical Company and the Marion Steam Shovel Company became major employers, contributing to the county's economic development.

In the 20th century, Grant County faced both progress and challenges. The county's manufacturing sector continued to thrive, but it also experienced the effects of economic downturns and industrial decline. However, the community remained resilient and adapted to changing times. Today, Grant County is home to a diverse economy, with industries ranging from healthcare and education to manufacturing and agriculture. The county also takes pride in its cultural heritage and hosts various events and festivals that celebrate its history and achievements.
Brief timeline of the history of Grant County, Indiana:

  • 1800s: Native American tribes, including the Miami and Delaware, inhabit the land that is now Grant County.
  • 1827: The land is opened up for settlement following the Treaty of St. Mary's.
  • 1831: Grant County is officially established, named after General Moses Grant, a veteran of the Revolutionary War.
  • 1833: The first courthouse is built in Marion, the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Grant County supports the Union during the American Civil War.
  • Late 1800s: Grant County experiences a population boom due to the discovery of natural gas and the establishment of various industries.
  • 1894: James Dean, the famous actor, is born in Marion.
  • 20th century: Grant County continues to grow, with the development of agriculture, manufacturing, and education.
  • 1930s-1940s: Grant County's economy is affected by the Great Depression and World War II.
  • 1965: The Mississinewa Reservoir is completed, providing a recreational area for locals and visitors.
  • 2000s: Grant County focuses on revitalizing its downtown areas and promoting tourism.

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