Jefferson County, Indiana

Albert G. Parker, Jr. Bill Cantrell Memorial Race Course Broadway Colored School / Broadway Fountain Col. John Paul, 1758-1830 Crawford — Whitehead — Ross House Crystal Beach Dupont: Fourth Night in Indiana Eagle Cotton Mill / Gas, Coal & Tobacco Eleutherian College First Chartered Bank in Indiana Flood of 1937 / Crystal Beach Pool Frank J. Knoebel From Pork to Port Gen. John Morgan's Troops Henry C. Long Indiana's First Railroad / Madison's Boat Builders Irene Dunne James F. D. Lanier Jefferson County ( Indiana ) Civil War Memorial Jefferson County Courthouse / Madison's Commercial District Jefferson County War Memorial John H. and Sarah Tibbets John Paul / Early History John T. Windle Memorial Auditorium Josephine Ogle Katharine McAfee Parker Lanier's Legacy Little Jimmy Lower Seminary School / Trolley Barn Lt. Colonel John A. Hendricks Lt. General Walter Krueger Luther D. Wishard Lyman Hoyt Madison Fairmount Cemetery Madison Farmer's Market Madison Historic District Madison Historic District Madison Regatta / Steamboats Madison's Fire Companies / Government Buildings Madison's Riverfront / Underground Railroad Michael C. Garber Milton-Madison Bridge / Madison Breweries Morgan Targets Versailles Morgan's Raid Morgan's Troops Camped Here Old Courthouse Treasure Percy E. Goodrich Public Library / Chautauqua Railroad on the Riverfront / Madison's Iron Foundries Replica of The Statue of Liberty Rev. Dr. William Martyn Baird / Rev. Dr. Samuel Austin Moffett Samuel Woodfill Servicing the Automobile / Building Roads Shrewsbury-Windle House The Beginning of the Michigan Road This Fountain This Shell Fired into Vicksburg Washington Fire Co. #2 William Hendricks of Madison
Jefferson County, Indiana has a rich and diverse history that spans over two centuries. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Shawnee, before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century. The first permanent settlement was established in 1808 when Moses Wilson built a cabin on the Ohio River. In 1811, Jefferson County was officially created and named in honor of Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States.

During the early years of its establishment, Jefferson County was primarily an agricultural community, with farms and plantations dominating the landscape. The economy thrived on the production of crops such as tobacco, wheat, and corn. By the mid-19th century, industrialization brought significant changes to the area. The arrival of railroads and the Ohio River propelled economic growth, leading to the establishment of manufacturing industries and trade centers. Madison, the county seat, became a bustling river port and a hub for commerce.

The county's history was influenced by the Civil War, as it was situated along the border of the Union and Confederate states. Jefferson County played a key role in supporting the Union cause, providing troops and resources to the Union Army. The Battle of Madison, fought in July 1863, was a notable event during the war, resulting in the defeat of Confederate forces. The war brought destruction to the county, but it also marked the beginning of a new era of reconstruction and growth.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Jefferson County saw modernization and advancement in various fields. The agricultural sector evolved with the adoption of new farming techniques and technology. The county also experienced growth in education and healthcare services, with the establishment of schools, hospitals, and medical facilities. Heritage tourism also became a significant aspect of the county's economy, as historical sites and attractions drew visitors from near and far.

Today, Jefferson County, Indiana stands as a testament to its past, with a blend of historical charm and contemporary development. It continues to thrive as a vibrant community, drawing on its rich history as it moves towards a promising future.
Brief timeline of the history of Jefferson County, Indiana:

  • 1809: Jefferson County is established by the Indiana Territory.
  • 1812: Madison becomes the county seat of Jefferson County.
  • 1814: The county gains its first post office.
  • 1821: Hanover College is founded in Jefferson County.
  • 1828: Jefferson County's first courthouse is completed.
  • 1840: The population of Jefferson County reaches over 13,000.
  • 1851: The Madison and Indiana Railroad is completed, connecting Jefferson County to Indianapolis.
  • 1863: During the American Civil War, Jefferson County experiences the Battle of Madison.
  • 1898: The Carnegie Library in downtown Madison is constructed.
  • 1937: The Ohio River flood devastates Jefferson County.
  • 1965: The Indiana-Kentucky Electric Corporation begins operating the Madison Plant, a coal-fired power plant.
  • 1987: Madison is designated a National Historic Landmark District.

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