County of hendricks

History & Founding

Located in west-central Indiana, this county boasts a rich history intertwined with the state’s development. Established in 1821 from Boone County, it was named in honor of Brigadier General Lewis Hendricks, a distinguished Revolutionary War officer and a relative of then-Governor Jonathan Jennings. Early settlement was spurred by the availability of fertile land and the promise of agricultural prosperity. The county played a significant role in the westward expansion of Indiana, serving as a vital agricultural hub and transportation corridor. During the Civil War, Hendricks County contributed significantly to the Union cause, with many residents enlisting in the military. An interesting anecdote from the county’s past involves the attempted escape of John Dillinger, the infamous bank robber, in 1934. Dillinger, attempting to evade police, crashed his car near the town of Lebanon, marking a brief but memorable moment in the county’s history.

Geography & Landscape

The county’s geography is characterized by gently rolling hills and fertile farmland, typical of Indiana’s till plains. Situated within the Central Indiana Upland, the terrain is predominantly flat to undulating, making it ideal for agriculture. Numerous creeks and streams, including the Cat Creek and Lick Creek, weave through the landscape, contributing to the area’s natural beauty. The county’s land area encompasses 408 square miles. While lacking significant mountain ranges or large lakes, the landscape offers a picturesque view of the Midwest. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm summers and cool winters, experiencing the typical weather patterns associated with the region.

Economy & Communities

The county comprises eleven towns and cities, including Lebanon, Plainfield, Greencastle, and Danville, the county seat. The economy is a blend of agriculture, industry, and increasingly, service-based businesses. Agriculture remains an important sector, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being major commodities. However, the county has seen substantial industrial growth, particularly in the Plainfield area, benefiting from its proximity to major transportation routes, including I-70. Notable employers include pharmaceutical companies, logistics providers, and manufacturing firms. The character of the area is evolving, transitioning from a predominantly rural landscape to a more suburban and increasingly urbanized environment, particularly around Plainfield and Lebanon. This shift is driven by population growth and the expansion of the Indianapolis metropolitan area.

Points of Interest

Points of interest within the county include the Hendricks County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the area's rich heritage. Numerous county and state parks offer recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, and camping. The annual Hendricks County 4-H Fair is a beloved tradition, celebrating agriculture and showcasing the talents of local youth. The county has also been home to several notable residents, contributing to the arts, sciences, and business sectors. A unique fact about the county is its role in the early development of the railroad system in Indiana, with several historic railroad lines having once traversed the area, leaving behind remnants of a bygone era.