National Register Listings in

Pike County, Indiana

Pike County, Indiana has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was established on December 21, 1816, and was named after Zebulon Pike, an American explorer who is known for leading expeditions in the Western United States. Pike County is located in the southwestern part of the state, and is bordered by the Wabash River on the west.

During its early years, Pike County was primarily rural and agricultural. The area was settled by pioneers who cleared the land for farming and established small towns and communities. In the mid-1800s, the discovery of coal in the region led to an economic boom. Coal mining became the dominant industry in Pike County, attracting a large number of immigrants to the area. The county's coal mines produced significant amounts of coal throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Pike County has also played a role in the history of basketball. In 1894, the first recorded basketball game in the state of Indiana was played in Petersburg, the county seat of Pike County. The game, played between two high school teams, marked the beginning of Indiana's love affair with the sport. Basketball has since become deeply ingrained in the culture of Pike County, and the state as a whole.

Today, Pike County continues to be driven by agriculture and coal mining. While the population has declined since its peak in the early 20th century, the county remains a close-knit community with a strong sense of history and pride in its heritage. Pike County's past, characterized by pioneers, coal miners, and basketball enthusiasts, has shaped the identity of the county and left a lasting impact on its present-day residents.