County of perry

History & Founding

Located in the southeastern corner of Indiana, this county holds a rich history and a distinctive character shaped by its geography and the people who have called it home. Established in 1818 from portions of Floyd and Harrison counties, its name honors Oliver Hazard Perry, a hero of the War of 1812, particularly celebrated for his victory at the Battle of Lake Erie. The early settlers were largely of pioneer stock, drawn to the fertile land and the promise of opportunity. During the Civil War, the county experienced significant internal divisions, with sympathies split between the Union and the Confederacy, a reflection of the broader national conflict. An interesting anecdote from the county's past involves a brief, largely forgotten attempt to establish a canal connecting the Ohio River to the Wabash River in the mid-19th century. Though ultimately unsuccessful, the canal project left behind remnants of its infrastructure, visible even today as subtle landscape features. The county played a role in Indiana’s development as a source of agricultural products and, later, as a transportation corridor.

Geography & Landscape

The county’s location places it within the rolling hills of the Purchase Land region, bordering the Ohio River. The terrain is characterized by steep slopes and deep valleys carved by the river and its tributaries. The Ohio River forms the entire southern boundary, and the county’s landscape is dominated by the river’s influence. There are no significant lakes within the county, but numerous creeks and streams crisscross the area. The climate is humid subtropical, with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The area experiences relatively high rainfall throughout the year. Notable natural features include the dramatic bluffs overlooking the Ohio River, offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

Economy & Communities

The three principal communities are Cannelton, the county seat, Tell City, the largest population center, and New Harmony, a unique town with a fascinating history. The economy is predominantly agricultural, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being key products. Manufacturing plays a significant role, particularly in the wood products industry. Several companies involved in furniture and building materials contribute to the local economy. Major employers include those in the manufacturing sector, as well as the healthcare facilities serving the region. The overall character of the county is rural, with a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life, although Tell City and Cannelton offer a more developed commercial presence.

Points of Interest

Points of interest are plentiful, reflecting the county’s history and natural beauty. The Patoka Lake Nature Preserve offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. New Harmony, founded as a utopian community in the early 19th century, is a National Historic Landmark and attracts visitors interested in its unique history and architecture. The Perry County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the county’s heritage. The annual Perry County Peach Festival celebrates the area’s agricultural bounty. The county has produced several notable residents, including artists and educators who have contributed to the region’s cultural landscape. A unique fact is that New Harmony holds the distinction of being the first town in the United States to have a public school and a public library.