Ripley County, Indiana
Busching Covered Bridge
Central Batesville Historic District
Central House
Collin's Ford Bridge
Conwell, Elias, House
Friendship Stone Arch Bridge
Marble Creek Bridge
Milan Masonic Lodge No. 31
Old Timbers
Otter Creek Covered Bridge
Rand, John Linsey, House
Ripley County Courthouse
Straber Ford Bridge
Taylor, Fernando G., House
Tyson United Methodist Church
Versailles School and Tyson Auditorium
Abolitionists
Barbara Fox, Pioneer Lady Inventor
Berry's Trace
Bilby Steel Tower
Eleazer Wheelock Ripley
Exhausted Morgan Troops
General John Morgan
General John Morgan
Gordons Leap
James Harrison Cravens
John Andrews, Master Craftsman
John Hunt Morgan's Code of Honor
Johnson Watts
Michigan Road
Morgan's Raid
Ohio and Mississippi Railroad
O'Brien Corner
Ripley County Veterans Memorial
Ripley County Veterans Memorial
Saint John Lutheran Church
Site of Masonic Hall
Stephen S. Harding
The Bilby Tower
The Fugitive Trail
The Hanging Tree
Union Church
Union Flat Rock Cemetery Memorial
Union Noose Tightening
Whitlatch Clinic
Willson House
In the early 19th century, Ripley County saw a significant wave of migration, as pioneers from Kentucky and other nearby states moved into the area. The town of Versailles, established in 1818, became the county seat and quickly grew into a bustling community. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's early economy, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco being cultivated.
During the mid-19th century, Ripley County experienced notable growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s led to further expansion, connecting the county to larger markets and helping to establish the town of Osgood as another important center of commerce. The county also played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, with several stations aiding escaped slaves on their journey to freedom.
In the 20th century, Ripley County underwent various changes as industries such as furniture manufacturing, automotive parts production, and agriculture continued to shape its economy. The county also experienced significant growth in education and healthcare facilities, with the establishment of Ivy Tech Community College and the expansion of Margaret Mary Health Hospital, further enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Today, Ripley County remains a vibrant community with a strong agricultural heritage. Its historical landmarks, including the Central Hotel and the Historic Dillsboro Covered Bridge, continue to attract visitors interested in exploring the county's rich past. The county also hosts events such as the Ripley County Fall Festival and the Versailles Pumpkin Show, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the region's cultural heritage.
Brief timeline of the history of Ripley County, Indiana:
- 1816 - Ripley County is established on March 1, becoming the 34th county in Indiana.
- 1820 - The county seat is established in Versailles.
- 1826 - The first courthouse in Ripley County is built in Versailles.
- 1844 - A new courthouse is built in Versailles to replace the old one.
- 1897 - The current Ripley County Courthouse is completed in Versailles.
- 1907 - The Indianapolis and Southeastern Interurban Railway reaches Versailles, improving transportation in the area.
- 1944 - The Muscatatuck State Developmental Center opens in Butlerville, providing services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
- 1968 - A tornado strikes Ripley County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- 1997 - The Ripley County Historical Society is established to preserve and promote the county's history.
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Ripley County, Indiana.