The Ellsworth Historic District

Historical marker location:
Lafayette, Indiana
( Marker is on Lingle Avenue south of Romig Street, on the left when traveling south.)

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The first long-distance auto race in the United States was held in Indiana in 1911. The race, called the Indianapolis 500, is still held annually and is one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
Tippecanoe County, located in the state of Indiana, has a rich history that can be traced back to the Native American tribes who inhabited the area. The region was originally home to the Miami tribe, who lived along the Wabash River and cultivated the fertile lands of the area. However, conflicts and forced removal led to the displacement of the Miami tribe in the early 19th century.

In 1823, Tippecanoe County was established, named after the Tippecanoe River that runs through the area. The county was part of the vast unsettled wilderness of the Northwest Territory and attracted pioneers looking to make a new start. The area quickly grew as more settlers arrived, drawn by the promise of fertile lands for farming and the potential for commercial development.

One significant event in Tippecanoe County's history is the Battle of Tippecanoe, which took place in 1811 near the town of Battle Ground. This clash between American forces led by Governor William Henry Harrison and Native American confederacy led by Shawnee leader Tecumseh and his brother Tenskwatawa, also known as the Prophet, was a pivotal moment in the westward expansion of the United States.

Today, Tippecanoe County is home to Lafayette, a thriving city with a strong industrial and manufacturing base. The county is also known for its educational institutions, including Purdue University, which was established in 1869 and has become one of the leading research universities in the country. Tippecanoe County continues to grow and evolve, blending its rich history with modern amenities and opportunities for its residents.

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

  • 1826: Tippecanoe County is founded.
  • 1832: Lafayette, the county seat, is incorporated.
  • 1845: Wabash and Erie Canal reaches Lafayette, boosting economic growth.
  • 1861-1865: Tippecanoe County contributes soldiers to the Union Army during the Civil War.
  • 1876: Purdue University is established in West Lafayette.
  • 1895: John Purdue donates funds to build a new university campus.
  • 1904: The first automobile is registered in Tippecanoe County.
  • 1913: Construction of the Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument in downtown Lafayette begins.
  • 1920: Women in Tippecanoe County gain the right to vote under the 19th Amendment.
  • 1951: The completion of Interstate 65 increases connectivity to the county.
  • 1973: Construction of Tippecanoe County Courthouse begins.
  • 1998: Purdue University wins the Rose Bowl for the first time in school history.