Lesser Known Facts About Indiana: A Gem of the Midwest
Indiana, the Hoosier state, is home to many lesser-known secrets and fascinating facts. From its bustling cities to its unique agricultural practices, Indiana offers a treasure trove of interesting information that is not widely known. Let's delve into some of these lesser-known facts through the years and explore why Indiana is considered a gem of the Midwest.
Historical and Cultural Facts
Indiana, the 38th state to join the Union, rich in its history and cultural heritage, offers a plethora of fascinating stories. Indianapolis, the state's capital, is a bustling hub of culture, NASCAR races, and sports teams. Indianapolis is also home to the Indianapolis 500 mile race, a legendary event that attracts millions of spectators each year. The state is known for hosting several other professional teams, including the Pacers (NBA) and the Colts (NFL).
Indiana's history is also marked by the election of five Vice Presidents. Schuyler Colfax, Thomas Marshall, Thomas A. Hendricks, Dan Quayle, and Charles W. Fairbanks all hailed from Indiana, making the state an important part of the political landscape.
Agricultural and Economic Facts
Indiana's agricultural sector is brimming with surprises and achievements. Did you know that Indiana has its own 20-foot-tall Corn King? The state's agricultural prowess extends beyond just corn, as it serves as one of the biggest popcorn producers in the country, contributing over 20% of the national supply. Additionally, almost 50% of Indiana's cropland is dedicated to corn cultivation.
Indiana also boasts the country's first successful goldfish farm, which opened in Martinsville in 1899. This pioneering agricultural venture set a precedent for future aquaculture developments.
Indiana has several unique laws that reflect its quirky history. For instance, it's illegal for liquor stores to sell you cold soft drinks or water. Another peculiar law dictates that before you go fishing, you must check your gear, as the use of dynamite, firearms, a crossbow, or your bare hands is strictly prohibited.
Geological and Unsolved Mysteries
Indiana's geological features and its quirks continue to amaze visitors and residents alike. For example, the Indiana Dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan are not just beautiful, but they are home to many unusual plants such as prickly pear cactus, lichen, mosses, and 20 varieties of orchids. The largest living sand dune, Mount Baldy, is unique in that it moves away from the shore a few feet every year.
There are also several unsolved mysteries that add to Indiana's intrigue. In 1972, Lowell Elliot of Peru found $500,000 that seemed to fall from the sky. Instead of keeping it, he returned it to the police. A similar incident happened in 1929, when the cash was dropped from a parachuter over Elliot's farm. Additionally, The Slippery Noodle, one of Indiana's oldest bars, has a dark and fascinating history. During Prohibition, it was used by the John Dillinger gang for target practice, leaving bullets embedded in its walls.
In 1831, Nancy Kerlin Barnett was buried on a hill in Amity village overlooking Sugar Creek. When Camp Atterbury was formed, cemeteries were uprooted, and her burial site was threatened. Thanks to her son and then her grandson, her grave was protected, and a historical marker was placed in 1912.
Conclusion
Indiana, with its rich history, unique laws, agricultural accomplishments, and intriguing mysteries, offers a wealth of information that can surprise and captivate anyone who learns about it. From its bustling pro sports teams and political legacy to its agricultural contributions and natural wonders, there's always something new to discover about this fascinating state.
Indiana may not be the first state that comes to mind for many, but its lesser-known facts will undoubtedly pique the curiosity of anyone interested in uncovering the hidden gems of the Midwest.