Miscellaneous Columbus Indiana Topics

[rehoov]

Hi: Not sure where this info belongs, but I have provided it to the Museum, also. Two years ago, I found an original map that was hand-drawn by Wm. Clark (of the Lewis and Clark Expedition) in 1810, and it shows "Columbus"; this conflicts with the Indiana History I learned at Wilson Jr. High in the 50's, which taught that Columbus was renamed from Tiptonia around 1816. The map is owned by the National Park Service, located at Fort Clatsop, OR. Having followed the route of the expedition from Clarksville, IN to the terminus, I believe that Wm. Clark canoed up the E. Fork of the White River, and spent some time in Columbus. I have a photo of the map's nameplate, but the glass protecting the map diffuses light, and the photo is not good; however, it may be possible to get a copy of the map from the Park Service. Roy.

[Margo CHS Class of 55]

WELCOME TO MEMBER # 100 !!
SO GLAD TO HAVE YOU JOIN OUR WEB SITE AND GROUP !!

I am very intrigued by your discussion of a map of the Lewis and Clark Expedition !
I have a nephew who is a LEADER of a group that has been recreating the Lewis and Clark Expedition by use of modern small air craft and helicopters. Will definitely look at the map next Tuesday at the Museum and let Mike know of it's existence.


WELCOME ABOARD AND PLEASE POST MORE !!!

[BobLane]

I am not sure where this should be posted, but Dave, you can move it if you wish.

I read the other day that when someone dies, a library dies. Only if you try to compile the history of your family do you realize the importance of gleaning family history from your elders in your family. There is a trend today to recreate the past, and it is really hard to do. I spent over a year trying to do that, and did somewhat have success, but can see many gaps that will never be filed in as those who knew are gone. It is sad to me that most families lose contact with their past. How often have we had opportunity to just sit and talk to an old aunt or uncle or grandparent but never asked about their childhood. Never found out what courting was like 50 or 75 years ago. Did not ask them about what their biggest disappointments were or to share their most precious blessings. When we let those dear family members pass on without honoring them with questions about their lives, we lose. I’ve compiles a list and it certainly is incomplete, of things your older generations could gladly speak on. Check them out with interesting questions and you will find them eager to share.

The spring house,
the root cellar,
Curing meat,
making breadwith your own yeast,
Making sauerkraut,
making soap,
Knowing where to dig a well,
making butter,
The outhouse,
playing in the hayloft,
The school pie sale,
the wood-burning cook stove,
Candle making,
spinning wheels,
The smokehouse,
evenings on the front porch,
The annual church “revivals”,
dusty, gravel roads.

This would be just a few things that would get their memories running. You will be blessed to share time with the old folks.

Bob Lane

[nancs]

Bob, what a beautiful post!!!!!!!!!!!! AND so true, so true. With the work that I do with my therapy dog, visiting with elders, not always my own mom----------what stories of their life you glean. When you just sit and chat, not only are you enriching your own knowledge, but 'giving,' by offering a listening ear to their tales so eagerly shared with you.

AND why the memories on this board are very important pieces of 'a library.' A library for many.

Nanc

[RER]

Ref: Bob Lane & Nanc's posts

Well, Bob I have to agree totally about taking time and talking to the elders. I wish I could go back and talk more than I did in my younger days, but that isn't possible. However, my wife and I over the past few years have kinda adopted two young ladies in there 90s and have spent time with them at our home and even took them to the beach for a few days. Now, the beach trip was so fun because their eyes were so bright with happiness and memories.

One, day we were in a little cafe and it was like a coffee and sandwich place, and one of these friend ladies was sitting at the squared table talking about old times. Well, the far wall from our table was wall-to-wall mirrors. She kept glancing at herself in the reflection across the room and said to us "I think that attractive, well dressed lady over there is looking at us." Now, that was a treat but we slowly told her in a soft way it was a mirror.

Sadly, to say our two adopted young 80 year olds have now pasted away, but we will find some one again I am sure.

As Bob and Nanc has said it is such a great learning experience to listen to their stories and life's gifts. If you haven't done it you are missing out on a treat of knowledge and history as Bob said.

Thanks, Bob for refreshing my mind again on the importance of the elderly knowledge and history.

Bob

[nancs]

To Bob, as in Records, as well in Lane, in late November, my Brutus and I made our scheduled visit to the assisted living facility. where my beloved mom resided for two years, prior to me having to make other, more appropriate living arrangements for her.

It was a beautiful southern California day, and Brutus and I joined several other residents, just to visit in the patio. Brutus did 'his magic' as only a dog can offer. With his 'work' done, he promptly dozed off to sleep.

What transpired were the delightful memories of a lady, who spent time during WW II, in Alaska, working for the government. Oh, my, oh my, as Brutus dozed, my life was richly blessed, as this lady elaborated on having helped the CIA to 'uncover' a less than desireable person within their midst. On to the 'fish tales' and a salmon she caught. She, peacefully passed, within the next couple of weeks. I honestly don't know how much her family may know of her 'colorful past.' I really don't.

And today, having my mom out to have her hair done at the same facility, heard of the passing of another. Age 100, what does her family remember? I really don't know.

Isn't it just remarkable how we can so share with others. Take the time and the effort. Please!!! It is so worth every moment.

Nanc

[nancs]

Not really certain where I want to post this!!!!

Historical markers, and SAVING THE PAST-------I have to agree with Ricky that efforts need to continue to preserve buildings that have historical value. Rhonda did just a super job preserving the memory of her family's contribution to Columbus. Thanks, Rhonda, for keeping everyone up to date with photos of these markers as they are dedicated. Way to go.

Frankly, the building that I would like to see be the next site for a historical marker AND the building saved----------the Washington building on Pearl Street, near the old Olympia Diary. As it was actually, according to info that I have read, a part of the high school back in the 1890s, and there prior to the 1905 building now ready for the wrecking ball.

Are we up to the challenge? SAVE!!!!

THEN

NOW

There is still time!!! Off soapbox.

Nanc

[Guest]

Reference Nancs Post:

Not really certain where I want to post this!!!!

Historical markers, and SAVING THE PAST

This information about getting a history sign was talked about at two other posts. A comprehensive overview of the history of the school is at the below posts on this history site:

-Columbus Senior High Class of 1957, Reply 31 March 6, 2007

-Miscellaneous Columbus High School Topics, Reply 15 Feb 8, 2007

[Quest]

Actually, the Atterbury Air Field Chapel from then old Columbus Air Base is less historical than the Old School still standing on Pearl Street between 7th and 8th Street. The Atterbury Air Field Chapel only dates back to World War II or 1942 time frame. Whereas, the 1888 Lincoln (so to speak) school housed various student grades, partial high school classes, home of a boys club, a bookstore, and housed high school musical bands practice and storage area.

The priorities of historical signs seems to be a lost cause because no one office, or groups of people are in charge to overview such necessary preservations of Columbus. It seems like if you want a historical sign placed then a person (not a specific office or office of responsibility) must start the wheels of motion. Now, it doesn't take much common sense by anyone to figure out that this procedure is a stupid and non-productive.

I would suggest that the overall Columbus Historical Society should take the "bull by the horns" and say, hey we should be doing this and we should be getting funding for the signs through the city elements. But, will this happen? I suspect not because most have a thought pattern of this statement: "Its not in my job description or its not my job." Duh, then who should the Columbus Mayor appoint to overview such an important program?

I suspect it isn't politically correct to suggest
what person, group or city office should be responsibly. We don't want to sound vain or bold here, but come on someone should go see the Mayor of Columbus and ask him who should be in charge of historical sign reviews and the necessary paperwork for submission for approval. It reminds me of the guy that bought a "John Boat" and forgot to order paddles and a life vest.

[Rhonda]

No one person has to be "in charge" of working towards getting an Indiana historical marker placed. I am very proud to have been able to research and come up with all the required information that was required to have a historical marker placed at the Orinoco building. There are few people left in this town/county who even KNOW what a rich furniture heritage was once here.

The state of Indiana only awards 15 to 22 of these markers per year after going through the applications. In other words, you can't just get one for every old building that is standing.

I agree that the local historical society should do more in this county, but you have made me feel like my accomplishment, and that of the men at the Atterbury Air Museum, is nothing.

[QUEST]

Come on Rhonda whomever you are. This is not about you but I guess you want to put your name out there.Get a life and listen to other views and not just what you feel. I didn't write the comment thinking of you or Atterbury Army guys. It was directed at history.

The 1888 date v.s. 1942 is what is highlighted not Rhonda or any military person. I can't believe you made this your issue. I simply made my point about whom should be in charge and responsibly. As far as only approving 12 or so signs a year for the size of Indiana is another big problem, but I'll leave that up others to deal with. It isn't your battle Rhonda so back off.

Your name wasn't brought into the conversation, I guess you feel as if you are the only source of signs or whatever. This is supposed to be a message board so that is what I left.

[Ricky_Berkey]

Please folks, the purpose of this forum is not to engage in judging the motives of other users or of other historical groups in town, it is simply intended to share information concerning Columbus area history.

One historical site is not necessarily any more important than any other and it does not always depend on the age of the building. Historical markers are only approved and placed after thorough research and documentation is submitted to the state usually by a dedicated individual or group who has some particular connection to the site. We should appreciate the effort put into getting these markers installed and actually visit the sites. There is a lot of politics involved in getting a marker placed and it can be time consuming and frustrating. Perhaps there should be a better process so I hope everyone will get involved with and join the Bartholomew County Historical Society, correspond with the lovers of Columbus history on this website and join the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana. Unfortunately we cannot place a marker on every worthy building but we can show the importance of many buildings and hopefully inform the public and our local officials of the need for recognition and especially preservation.

[nancs]

Good morning, Jack, and everyone else, too,

Having gotten side tracked here for a day or two, am back. In answer to your question, Jack, where do you post the sort of 'no topic' things-----------Miscellaneous Columbus Indiana is probably the best place, and within also a 'Columbus Hash' thread.

I really thought that Jack's question was one that should be expanded on............For those of us that have 'been on the boards for a long time now'................surely realize that in the early beginnings the number of topics was fairly limited, and many, now more specific topics, have been started. What has sort of happened since those 'infant days,' within, as an example the 1940s thread, one will find references to many topics that now have a specific spot to post that memory.

I know that for me, I sometimes remember that I had posted something that refered to 'a now newer topic,' and for the life of me, I can't recall where that information can be now referenced. One just has to accept that as fact, and just chalk it up to-----as the boards grow and expand, they just get better and better.

Another example, Jack mentioned 'the haunted house' and we rather think that is the Nugent home. Somewhere within the boards is a short discussion of that home and some photos. I don't remember where!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just one of those things that has happened over time as the boards grow.

And perhaps that is part of the beauty of this collection of memories. It just becomes a daily education in the history of Columbus as recalled by many contributors.

In all honesty, I can't even imagine what it would be like for a brand new person to 'come on board' and try and figure out what to read first!!!! Jack, you put it so well when you compared it to a visit to a candy store.

And to all, if you have a topic that you want to explore, and find no thread that covers it, I suggest that you, as a member, make use of the personal message portion at the top of first message board page. Send a note to Richard, and he will set up a thread that is appropriate. And that is a huge help, I think, to organization and keeping things from 'getting buried and difficult to locate.'

David, the webmaster, and the master mind that started this wonderful site, is always so open to suggestions. This is all just a grass roots effort to document, if you will, the memories that you have about Columbus. And do become a part, and share. That is what it is all about.

Have a super day!!!

Nanc

[nancs]

Thanks to RER for 'accumulating' from prior posts, in other threads, and putting altogether some of photos about the restaurant on 5th Street there by the old fire station and city hall. re: Columbus Fire Dept., reply # 124.

For newcomers to the message boards, this is a beautiful example of how items would 'appear' to be buried within the boards, and why one really should explore all the threads. Plus, I do firmly believe that it is the 'responsibility' of some of us 'old timer posters' to sort of alert the newer readership of other places to search for Columbus history.

Even all our very best efforts to get items posted into an appropriate thread, the information does overlap, and given time, when accumulated in one spot, makes a whole picture 'of how it used to be.' Thanks again------and that includes, for this recent example---Rhonda, Bob, George. This collection of photos puts so much into place.

And I guess that is why so many of us love and haunt these message boards. Each day something new from the past unfolds. Enjoy, these boards are AWESOME!!!!

Please do add your 'two cents worth as what you might share' may fit into the scheme of things and add another piece to some existing puzzle.

WELCOME TO ALL.

Nanc

[RER]

Welcome Jerry McCoy and Tim Ault! We are just a bunch of folks local and nationwide; that talks about memories and history of Columbus and Bartholomew County. Jerry, your addition to the Clifty/Boothsetser School history was very interesting as was the Speedway comments.

The Carpenters' Drug Store sports cards brought back many memories as a young guy. I had a lot of friends that collected the cards. I started a collection but stopped early in the 1950s. I should have kept that effort up. Anyway, welcome again and we look forward to your thoughts and history about Columbus.

[RER]

Columbus Indiana Historic Properties Listed In the National & State Registers



Bartholomew County Historical Property

David Aikens House, 1877
Architecture, Agriculture

Bartholomew County Courthouse, 1874
Architecture, Politics & Government

City Hall, 1895 (5th & Franklin)
Architecture, Politics & Government

Columbus Historic District, 1821-1942
Architecture & Commerce

Elnora Daugherty Farm, 1890-1937
Architecture & Agriculture

First Baptist Church, 1965
Architecture & Landscape

First Christian Church, 1942 (5th Street)
Architecture, Design & Landscape

William R. Gant Farm, 1864-1950
Exploration, Settlement, Architecture & Agriculture

Haw Creek Leather Company, 1914
Architecture & Industry

D. W. Heagy Farm, 1879-1930
Agriculture & Architecture

Hope Historic District, 1930-1940
Exploration, Settlement, Religion, Architecture, Commerce, Education

Irwin Union Bank & Trust, 1954, 1966, 1973
Architecture, Social History, Landscape, & Design and Art

James Marr House & Farm, 1871
Architecture

McEwen-Samuels-Marr House, 1864, 1875
Architecture & Commerce

Mable McDowell Elementary School, 1960
Architecture, Social History, Landscape and Design & Art

McKinley School (North Side), 1892
Architecture and Education

Miller House, 1957
Architecture & Landscape

New Hope Bridge, 1913
Engineering & Transportation

Newsom-Marr Farm, 1860, 1917
Architecture and Agriculture

North Christian Church, 1964
Architecture,Landscape, Design & Art

Pugh Ford Bridge, 1911 (Taylorsville area)
Engineering & Transportation


Source: Indiana Department of Natural Resources (updated August 2007)

[RER]

Political Graveyard For Batholomew County & Columbus

At the web site below is probably everything you didn't want to know or see:

politicalgraveyard.com/geo/IN/BA.html#RCA0PVBDG

"Vote The Incumbents Out Party" ...smile

[RER]

This is a multiple "Welcome Message" to newly posted members Jim and ckjewalker. Jim I don't know the answer to the question you had but someone might come on and post what you have asked. For Walker in Wisconsin you are within my family arrangement with the Hart family as you said. I am not sure which Walker father you are from though. Richard and I know a lot of Walkers of the past.

Anyway, welcome and keep on posting your memories and have a great day.

[ckjewalker]

I am Chris Walker, son of Mike and Pat, grandson of Ray and Edith Walker. I now live south of Green Bay in Wisconsin.

[Babs]

WOW, did anyone about get blown away yesterday with our "after effects from Ike?" Been all over town today and noticed loads of trees down, limbs and leaves all over the place. Who would ever think that Ike, a hurricane that hit Texas, would impact us so greatly. We lost our electric power about 2:30 yesterday and it did not come on till this morning a little before 9 a.m.

Funny how much you miss electric power when you don't have it! :-) My Sunday dinner had to be returned to the refrigerator and I finished cooking it today so Sunday dinner is going to be Monday night's dinner instead.

I've not heard exactly how high the winds got here in Columbus but they must've been pretty high when you look at all the huge trees that were blown down and REMC said it was trees that fell into power lines that caused their outtage. I was just so glad when the power came back on.

One more day in the long list of many lately that will stand out as not such a good day for Columbus.....but like Scarlet O'Hara.....I will wait and look forward..... till tomorrow! :-)