National Register Listings in Fulton County, Indiana
Indiana is the birthplace of the first black Supreme Court Justice, Thurgood Marshall. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but grew up in Indiana, where he attended high school and college.
About Fulton County
Fulton County Timeline
Fulton County, located in the state of Indiana, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Miami and Potawatomi. European settlement began in the 1830s with the arrival of pioneers, who established the first permanent settlements in the region.
In 1840, Fulton County was officially established, named after Robert Fulton, an American engineer and inventor. The county's economy initially relied on agriculture, with small farms producing crops like corn, wheat, and livestock. As the population grew, new industries emerged, including sawmills, gristmills, and a thriving lumber industry.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought further economic growth to Fulton County. With improved transportation links, the county became a hub for shipping agricultural products to other parts of Indiana and beyond. The railroad also facilitated the growth of new businesses, such as manufacturing and retail.
Over the years, Fulton County has experienced its share of challenges and changes. Like many parts of rural America, the county faced the impact of the Great Depression in the 1930s, which led to economic hardship for many residents. However, the local community remained resilient, and the county gradually recovered.
Today, Fulton County continues to be a primarily rural area, with a strong agricultural heritage. The county's economy has diversified, with a range of industries including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Fulton County also prides itself on its natural beauty, with numerous lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities attracting visitors from near and far.
In 1840, Fulton County was officially established, named after Robert Fulton, an American engineer and inventor. The county's economy initially relied on agriculture, with small farms producing crops like corn, wheat, and livestock. As the population grew, new industries emerged, including sawmills, gristmills, and a thriving lumber industry.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought further economic growth to Fulton County. With improved transportation links, the county became a hub for shipping agricultural products to other parts of Indiana and beyond. The railroad also facilitated the growth of new businesses, such as manufacturing and retail.
Over the years, Fulton County has experienced its share of challenges and changes. Like many parts of rural America, the county faced the impact of the Great Depression in the 1930s, which led to economic hardship for many residents. However, the local community remained resilient, and the county gradually recovered.
Today, Fulton County continues to be a primarily rural area, with a strong agricultural heritage. The county's economy has diversified, with a range of industries including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Fulton County also prides itself on its natural beauty, with numerous lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities attracting visitors from near and far.
Fulton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fulton County, Indiana.
- Fulton County was organized in 1836.
- In 1838, Rochester was established as the county seat.
- During the mid-19th century, agriculture and farming were the main economic activities in the county.
- In 1871, the Lake Erie and Western Railroad was completed, improving transportation in the area.
- In the late 1800s, coal mining became a significant industry in Fulton County.
- In 1937, Lake Manitou, a popular recreational lake, was drained due to concerns about its dam's structural integrity.
- On April 3, 1974, an F4 tornado swept through Rochester and other parts of the county, causing significant damage and loss of lives.
- Since the late 20th century, tourism and manufacturing have emerged as essential sectors in Fulton County's economy.