National Register Listing

Ligonier Historic District

a.k.a. See Also:Jacob Strauss Residence;Ahavas Shalom Reform Temple

Roughly bounded by Conrail right-of-way, Smith, Union, College, & Grand Sts., Ligonier, IN
Local significance of the district:
Architecture; Other-ethnic; Industry; Commerce

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

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.

architecture ethnic heritage other-ethnic industry commerce
The first public demonstration of the electric light bulb was given by Thomas Edison in Menlo Park, New Jersey, but the first practical incandescent light bulb was invented by Lewis Howard Latimer, who was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, but lived in Indiana for a time. Latimer was also the first African American to be employed as an engineer by the U.S. Patent Office.
Indiana random facts
Noble County, Indiana, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami, Potawatomi, and Delaware. European settlers began to arrive in the early 19th century, with the establishment of Fort Wayne in 1794 as a military outpost during the Northwest Indian War. Noble County was officially founded on March 7, 1836, and named in honor of James Noble, a U.S. Senator from Indiana.

The county's early economy was primarily agrarian, with settlers engaging in farming and raising livestock. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century brought increased opportunities for trade and commerce, stimulating economic growth. Lumber and manufacturing industries also developed, utilizing the region's abundant natural resources.

Noble County played a significant role in the development of the automobile industry. In 1902, Elwood Haynes, a Kokomo native and pioneer in automotive technology, invented one of the first gasoline-powered automobiles. His innovations and contributions to the industry significantly impacted the county's economy and led to the establishment of automobile-related businesses in the area.

Throughout the years, Noble County has continued to evolve, embracing industry diversification and technological advancements. Today, the county is home to a variety of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and tourism. Its picturesque landscapes, including lakes and recreational areas, attract visitors and provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The county also preserves its heritage through historical sites, museums, and events, allowing residents and visitors to appreciate its remarkable history.

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

  • 1830: Noble County is established.
  • 1832: The first permanent settlement in the county is established.
  • 1836: The county seat is established in Albion.
  • 1844: The first railroad is built in the county.
  • 1861-1865: Noble County residents serve in the American Civil War.
  • 1893: The town of Rome City is incorporated.
  • 1909: The Wabash and Erie Canal is abandoned.
  • 1920s: The arrival of the automobile leads to a decline in railroad transportation.
  • 1940s-1950s: World War II and post-war economic growth bring changes and advancements to the county.
  • 1960s-present: Noble County experiences population growth and economic development.