Scott County, Indiana

Scott County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, predominantly the Miami and Delaware tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, establishing small communities along the Ohio River. The county itself was officially formed in 1820 and named after General Charles Scott, a hero of the Revolutionary War.

During the mid-19th century, Scott County experienced significant growth and development. The completion of the Madison and Indianapolis Railroad in the 1840s brought greater accessibility and economic opportunities to the region. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's economy, with corn and tobacco being the primary crops.

In the late 19th century, the county saw a shift in its economy with the discovery of natural gas in the area. This led to the development of industries such as glass manufacturing and brickmaking. The town of Scottsburg, the county seat, became a hub for these industries and experienced a population boom.

The early 20th century brought several advancements to Scott County. In 1906, the county built its first consolidated school, and by the 1920s, they had a high school and several elementary schools. Scott County also played a significant role in the automotive industry during this time, with the production of the Scott Six automobile.

In summary, Scott County, Indiana has evolved from its early Native American roots to become a prosperous community with a diverse economy. From its agricultural beginnings to the discovery of natural resources, the county has experienced growth and development throughout its history. Today, Scott County remains a vibrant and thriving part of Indiana.
Brief timeline of the history of Scott County, Indiana:

  • 1807: Scott County, Indiana founded and named after Charles Scott, the Governor of Kentucky
  • 1819: The first school opens in Lexington Township
  • 1820: Scott County's first courthouse is constructed in Lexington
  • 1846: The town of Lexington becomes the county seat
  • 1863: Morgan's Raid, a Confederate incursion, reaches Scott County
  • 1871: Scottsburg becomes the new county seat, replacing Lexington
  • 1896: The Scott County Historical Society is established
  • 1928: Scottsburg High School is built
  • 1951: The Hardy Lake Reservoir is created
  • 1958: The Scott County Public Library is established
  • 1961: A tornado strikes Austin, causing significant damage
  • 1995: The Scott County Heritage Center and Museum opens
  • 2015: An HIV outbreak occurs in Scott County, leading to a public health emergency

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