Dover

Historical marker location:
Dover, Indiana
( Marker is at the intersection of U.S. 1 and North Dearborn Road, on the right when traveling north on U.S. 1.)

The Final Insult. John Hunt Morgan Heritage Trail

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The Hoosier Gym in Knightstown, Indiana, was used as the filming location for the basketball scenes in the movie "Hoosiers," which tells the story of a small-town high school basketball team that wins the state championship.
Dearborn County, located in southeastern Indiana, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its establishment in 1803. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Miami and Shawnee, who used the fertile land for hunting and farming. The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century and began to establish farms and towns.

By the early 19th century, Dearborn County had become an important center of commerce and transportation due to its location along the Ohio River. Steamboats regularly traveled along the river, transporting goods and people to and from the county. The town of Lawrenceburg, which served as the county seat, became a hub of economic activity with industries such as mills, distilleries, and shipbuilding flourishing.

During the American Civil War, Dearborn County played a significant role, as it was situated on the border between the Union and Confederate territories. The county saw its fair share of battles and skirmishes, with both sides vying for control of the strategically important Ohio River. Lawrenceburg was occupied by Union troops early in the war, providing support and resources for the Union cause.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dearborn County experienced industrial growth, particularly in the automobile industry. The county was home to several automobile manufacturing companies, including the famous Stutz Motor Company. This led to an economic boom, with new jobs and businesses flourishing in the area.

Today, Dearborn County continues to thrive as a vibrant community with a rich history. It is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including the rolling hills of the Dearborn Highlands and the Ohio River. The county also maintains a strong agricultural tradition, with farms and farmers markets contributing to the local economy. Historic landmarks and museums provide a glimpse into the county's past, ensuring that its history is preserved and celebrated for future generations.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Dearborn County, Indiana.

  • 1680: French explorer RenĂ©-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, claims the territory for France.
  • 1763: Treaty of Paris ends French and Indian War, transferring control of the area to Great Britain.
  • 1774: Richard Venable becomes the first recorded permanent settler in what is now Dearborn County.
  • 1795: Northwest Territory, including present-day Dearborn County, is established by the United States.
  • 1803: Dearborn County is officially created and named after Revolutionary War hero Henry Dearborn.
  • 1811: Lawrenceburg is established as the county seat of Dearborn County.
  • 1812-1815: Dearborn County plays a role in the War of 1812, with skirmishes occurring in the area.
  • 1838: The county's first railroad, the Madison and Indianapolis Railroad, begins operation.
  • 1843: Rising Sun is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1851: Aurora is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1862-1865: Many residents of Dearborn County serve in the Union Army during the American Civil War.
  • 1895: Greendale is incorporated as a town in Dearborn County.
  • 1965: The Hollywood Casino opens in Lawrenceburg, becoming the first casino in the state of Indiana.