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Friday, December 14, 2012

The Historic Buildings of Indianapolis

By Pris Stratton


The city of Indianapolis was established by proclamation in 1816 when Indiana officially changed into a state. This is different from plenty of other cities and state capitals which were settled by populations of settlers growing gradually over a period of time. The Central government had basically set aside 4 different locations within the state to possibly become the capital. In 1820, the Indiana legislature assigned 10 commissioners to find the true middle of the state for the capital location. The rational was that settlers heading westward might stop and make Indianapolis their home. Sure enough it worked and the capitol was born. Rich with history, there are several historic buildings in Indianapolis which are worth a visit.

President Benjamin Henry Harrison Home

President Benjamin Henry Harrison was the 23rd President of the US from 1889 to 1893. His home, located on Delaware Street functions as a museum detailing his life and his political accomplishments. Open to the public, tours are available daily. Each tour takes about one hour, allowing each visitor to view the 10 room mansion. A highlight is the with a third floor dancehall. The incontrovertible fact that a US President resided here, makes it one of the more interesting historic huildings in Indianapolis.

Oldfields Lilly House and Gardens

Though built by Hugh Mckennan from around 1910 into the early 1920s, this mansion is basically known as of the second owners who acquired it in 1932. J.K. Lilly Jr, a local businessman, and his better half Ruth purchased this sprawling home which is now found on the same grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Lilly gets credit for hiring the Olmstead Siblings, who transformed the grounds and the 22-room mansion into what it is today. The sheer size and scope of the home and grounds make it one of the most electrifying buildings in Indianapolis. Tours are given from April through the December 31 during the year. Don't miss out on visitng this great place, it will be a great sight for the whole family.

Hooks Drug Store Museum and Soda Fountain

If you happen to have got a craving for an old time ice cream sundae or float, then look no farther than Hooks Drug Store Museum and Soda fountain. Found on the Indiana Fairgrounds, this museum celebrates the company that began in 1900 and grew to 50 stores by the late 1960?s. The museum is still operational and has a collection of artifacts celebrating the old-time drug store culture. While the museum is only open during the Indiana State Fair, it may also be rented out for specialized events. To get a feel for how things used to be pay this old soda shop a visit for some tasty morsels.

Colonel Eli Lilly Civil War Museum and Soldiers and Sailers Monument

Located in the middle of Indianapolis, this combination monument and building stands 284 feet and 6 inches high, making it just 15 feet short of the Statue of Freedom. One of the more galvanizing buildings in Indianapolis, the structure was built in 1902 at a price of about $600,000. Works are placed across the interior of the monument for visitors to see. Additionally, there's an observer's platform that gives visitors a stretching view of downtown Indianapolis and beyond. For a great view of Indy and some fun for the family be sure to pay this site a visit.

James Whitcomb Riley Museum

Found in the Lockerbie Square District, this home was residence to the distinguished poet James Whitcomb Riley. Once inside, you can peruse numerous verses of his writing. Visitors can almost picture him reading one of his favorite writers, Charles Dickens, by gaslight. This 2 story home turned into a National Landmark in 1962 and is open to the general public all year.




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