New Albany Downtown Historic District (Additional Documentation)
Roughly between West First St., and East Fifth St.; West Main St. to East Spring St., New Albany, IN Local significance of the district: Commerce; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The Wabash River, which flows through western Indiana, was the inspiration for the state song, "On the Banks of the Wabash, Far Away," written by Paul Dresser in 1897. It became one of the most popular songs of its time and has since become a symbol of the state's heritage.
About Floyd County
Floyd County Timeline
Floyd County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area originally served as a hunting ground for Native American tribes, such as the Shawnee and Miami. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive, with John Floyd being one of the first settlers in the area. The county was officially established in 1819 and named in his honor.
The county played an important role during the early years of the United States. It served as a major transportation hub along the Ohio River, connecting the Eastern states with the expanding Western frontier. The town of New Albany, located in Floyd County, became a bustling port and industrial center, attracting immigrants and entrepreneurs from around the world. The county's proximity to Louisville, Kentucky, also contributed to its growth and development.
During the 19th century, Floyd County experienced significant economic growth, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping industries. The county became known for its thriving steamboat business, as well as its production of steam engines, furniture, whiskey, and tobacco. The advent of the railroad further enhanced transportation and trade opportunities, allowing for increased economic prosperity.
Floyd County has also witnessed its fair share of historical events. It was impacted by the Civil War, serving as a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces. The Battle of Corydon, the only battle fought in Indiana during the war, took place in Floyd County in 1863. In more recent history, the county has seen periods of growth, decline, and revitalization. Today, Floyd County remains a vibrant community, known for its historical charm, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.
The county played an important role during the early years of the United States. It served as a major transportation hub along the Ohio River, connecting the Eastern states with the expanding Western frontier. The town of New Albany, located in Floyd County, became a bustling port and industrial center, attracting immigrants and entrepreneurs from around the world. The county's proximity to Louisville, Kentucky, also contributed to its growth and development.
During the 19th century, Floyd County experienced significant economic growth, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and shipping industries. The county became known for its thriving steamboat business, as well as its production of steam engines, furniture, whiskey, and tobacco. The advent of the railroad further enhanced transportation and trade opportunities, allowing for increased economic prosperity.
Floyd County has also witnessed its fair share of historical events. It was impacted by the Civil War, serving as a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces. The Battle of Corydon, the only battle fought in Indiana during the war, took place in Floyd County in 1863. In more recent history, the county has seen periods of growth, decline, and revitalization. Today, Floyd County remains a vibrant community, known for its historical charm, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.
Floyd County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Floyd County, Indiana.
- 1800 - Floyd County is established on January 2, 1800.
- 1811 - John James Audubon, the famous ornithologist, arrives in the area.
- 1829 - The town of New Albany is founded.
- 1844 - The Louisville, New Albany and Salem Railroad is completed, connecting the county to other major cities.
- 1863 - During the American Civil War, New Albany becomes an important supply center for the Union Army.
- 1873 - Carnegie Library is constructed in New Albany, providing educational resources to the community.
- 1893 - The Louisville and Jeffersonville Bridge (later known as the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge) is completed, enhancing transportation between Floyd County and Kentucky.
- 1929 - The Great Depression impacts the county's economy, leading to significant financial challenges.
- 1964 - Interstate 64 is completed, further improving transportation infrastructure in the county.
- 2000 - Historic preservation efforts are strengthened, leading to the recognition and restoration of many historic buildings in New Albany.