Parke County, Indiana

Parke County, Indiana, located in the western part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Miami, Delaware, and Potawatomi peoples. European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, establishing small towns and farms.

The county was officially established in 1821 and named after Benjamin Parke, a prominent early settler and judge in the Indiana Territory. During the mid-1800s, Parke County experienced an economic boom with the discovery of significant coal reserves. This led to the rapid growth of mining operations, attracting new settlers and increasing the population.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Parke County became famous for its covered bridges, which were built to facilitate transportation across the region's numerous streams and rivers. At one point, the county boasted over 50 covered bridges, earning it the nickname "The Covered Bridge Capital of the World." Today, many of these bridges still stand and are a significant tourist attraction.

Throughout its history, Parke County has been known for its agricultural roots, with farming playing a vital role in the local economy. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate have made it suitable for various crops, including corn, soybeans, and wheat. In addition to farming, Parke County has also seen growth in tourism, with visitors flocking to its picturesque scenery, charming towns, and annual events such as the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Overall, Parke County, Indiana, has a fascinating history shaped by the Native American presence, coal mining, and its iconic covered bridges. Its agricultural heritage and vibrant tourism industry continue to make it a thriving and appealing destination for both residents and visitors.
Brief timeline of the history of Parke County, Indiana:

  • 1821 - Parke County is established and named after Benjamin Parke, a territorial judge.
  • 1833 - Raccoon Creek becomes the first settlement in the county.
  • 1833 - The town of Rockville is founded as the county seat.
  • 1842 - The Bridgeton Covered Bridge is constructed, becoming the first of Parke County's iconic covered bridges.
  • 1851 - Turkey Run State Park is established, showcasing the region's natural beauty.
  • 1864 - The Old Jail Inn in Rockville, originally a functioning jail, becomes Indiana's first bed and breakfast.
  • 1875 - The Mansfield Covered Bridge is built, becoming the longest covered bridge in Parke County.
  • 1882 - The Parke County Annual Covered Bridge Festival begins, attracting tourists from all over.
  • 1927 - The Narrows Covered Bridge, a picturesque truss bridge, is constructed.
  • 1950s - The popularity of the Covered Bridge Festival continues to grow, drawing larger crowds each year.

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