C. Francis Jenkins

Wayne County, Indiana, located in the eastern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1811. The county was named after General Anthony Wayne, a renowned American Revolutionary War hero. The area was originally occupied by Native American tribes, including the Miami and Lenape, who were gradually displaced as European settlers arrived.

The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, attracted by the fertile lands and abundant natural resources. Richmond, now the county seat and largest city, was laid out in 1806 and quickly became a bustling center of commerce and industry. The construction of the Whitewater Canal in the 1840s further stimulated economic growth, facilitating transportation and trade.

During the turbulent years leading up to the American Civil War, Wayne County was a hotbed of abolitionist sentiment, with many residents actively involved in the Underground Railroad. The Levi and Catherine Coffin Home, now a National Historic Landmark, served as a safe haven for escaped slaves. Notable figures like Levi Coffin and his wife, "The President of the Underground Railroad," played significant roles in helping slaves on their journey to freedom.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wayne County experienced industrial expansion, particularly in the manufacturing sector. The automobile industry had a significant presence, with companies like Wayne Works and Westcott Motor Car Company operating in the area. Today, Wayne County continues to thrive as a center for manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism, while preserving its proud history through numerous historic sites and landmarks.