Most state capitals have tons of fun to offer up. Indianapolis is no exception to this. Usually, with every state capital, you get a touch of history as well. Let’s talk about the best historic locations you can visit on your next trip.
Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument
During the American Civil War, Indianapolis became a gathering spot for the Union Army. After the war, it became a prominent supplier of pork and grew tremendously during the industrial revolution. Here was progressive movement and growth well into the early 1900s. Many companies and brands started in the city of Indianapolis.
One of the most symbolic historic sites of the state, the Indiana State Soldiers and Sailors Monument was built on Monument Circle in central Indy. It was publicly dedicated in May of 1902. The purpose of the statue was to honor Hoosiers (the official name of the residents of Indiana) who had fought in the Civil War. It was also dedicated to the soldiers who served in the Revolutionary War, parts of the War of 1812, the Mexican-American War, and the Spanish American War.
The site of the monument is significant as well. The city’s original architectural plans included a circular patch of land in the middle of town. This would be the focal point of the city. It was originally called Governer’s Circle as it was to be the location of the governor’s residence. The area was very public and popular by the time the mansion was built. No governor ever ended up living there. The final installation of the monument was placed in Governer’s Circle in 1901. In 1973 it was put on the National Register of Historic Places.
North Meridian Street Historic District
This iconic and affluent neighborhood consists of 169 buildings built between the 1900s and 1930s that are all considered historically significant. If you have been looking at Indianapolis houses for sale, you’ve probably seen some of what this beautiful area has to offer. The architecture you’ll see in this area is Colonial Revival, Tudor, and Classical Revival.
Many of these homes were the residence of the highest in society during the turn of the century. Many of these homes are still very well taken care of and house many new families. Other historic residential areas are just as quaint and comfortable. Indianapolis has amazing weather, full four seasons with crips fall, cold winters, cool springs, and hot summers.
This community sure knows how to throw a party as well. Each year this section holds local BBQs for the public to attend. The HIstoric Meridian Park hosts many events to look forward to all year long. Nothing is better than when your community holds events to get everyone together.
Indianapolis Park and Boulevard System
George Edward Kessler created these parkway systems in the early part of the 12th century. There are 12 parks, 6 parkways, several bridges, and over 100 other contributing structures. You could say that Indy knows how to cherish its history. This was all created over a very progressive timeframe for the development of the United States.
The Parks Board, City Council, and the Chamber of Commerce were all operating at full function during these years. The population had grown since the Civil War and the desire for parks grew. The city knew it needed help and it turned to Kessler. He was a well-known landscape and park architect by this point already. Kessler passed before the plans were completed.
However, in his place, a young graduate from Harvard took over as city planner. Lawrence Sheridan completed Kessler’s projects. These parks and their conservation are an important part of Indianapolis to this day. It has pushed the city to take care of these crucial common gathering areas. They have a lot to thank Kessler for!
