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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.
About Vigo County
Vigo County Timeline
Vigo County, located in Indiana, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Shawnee, Miami, and Delaware. European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and the region became a popular trading post due to its location along the Wabash River.
In 1816, Vigo County was established and named after Colonel Francis Vigo, an Italian immigrant who aided the American revolutionaries during the War of Independence. The county experienced rapid growth during the 19th century, thanks to its favorable location for trade and transportation. It became an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce. The city of Terre Haute, the county seat, became a hub for railroads and the coal industry, further fueling economic development.
Vigo County played a significant role in the Civil War. It was a key stop on the Underground Railroad, assisting escaping slaves in their journey northward. Several residents served in the Union Army, and Terre Haute became an important location for military training and production. The county's economic growth continued in the following decades, with the establishment of various industries and institutions, including Indiana State University in 1865.
In the 20th century, Vigo County went through periods of prosperity and challenges. The Great Depression and the decline of the coal industry brought hardships to the area, but efforts to diversify the economy led to the establishment of new industries and the revitalization of downtown Terre Haute. Today, Vigo County remains an important economic and cultural center in Indiana, known for its educational institutions, diverse industries, and historical landmarks.
In 1816, Vigo County was established and named after Colonel Francis Vigo, an Italian immigrant who aided the American revolutionaries during the War of Independence. The county experienced rapid growth during the 19th century, thanks to its favorable location for trade and transportation. It became an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce. The city of Terre Haute, the county seat, became a hub for railroads and the coal industry, further fueling economic development.
Vigo County played a significant role in the Civil War. It was a key stop on the Underground Railroad, assisting escaping slaves in their journey northward. Several residents served in the Union Army, and Terre Haute became an important location for military training and production. The county's economic growth continued in the following decades, with the establishment of various industries and institutions, including Indiana State University in 1865.
In the 20th century, Vigo County went through periods of prosperity and challenges. The Great Depression and the decline of the coal industry brought hardships to the area, but efforts to diversify the economy led to the establishment of new industries and the revitalization of downtown Terre Haute. Today, Vigo County remains an important economic and cultural center in Indiana, known for its educational institutions, diverse industries, and historical landmarks.
Vigo County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Vigo County, Indiana.
- Vigo County was established by an act of the Indiana General Assembly on January 21, 1818.
- The county was named after Colonel Francis Vigo, a Revolutionary War hero and prominent local merchant.
- Terre Haute became the county seat of Vigo County in 1818, and it remains the county seat to this day.
- The county experienced rapid growth in the mid-19th century due to the arrival of the railroad and the growth of the coal and iron industries.
- In 1863, during the Civil War, the Battle of Fort Harrison took place in Vigo County, resulting in a Union victory.
- The early 20th century brought significant urban development to the county, with the expansion of manufacturing and the establishment of Indiana State University in Terre Haute.
- Vigo County played a notable role in the 1920s as the headquarters of the Indiana Ku Klux Klan, which had gained significant political power in the state.
- Throughout the 20th century, Vigo County remained a center for industry, agriculture, and education, with the continued growth of Terre Haute and surrounding communities.
- In recent years, the county has faced economic challenges, similar to many Rust Belt areas, but continues to be a vibrant and diverse community.