Bartholomew County’s celebration of Indiana’s bicentennial was two years in the making. Based on the turnout for local events, it was a rousing success that helped modern-day generations better grasp the significant accomplishments of state and local history-makers.
The state’s Bicentennial Torch Relay, which weaves 3,200 miles through all of the state’s 92 counties, started Sept. 9 in Corydon and culminates Oct. 15 at the Indiana Statehouse.
The five-week historical trek will etch Hoosier memories in the minds of each county’s residents, and that’s just what happened Sept. 17 and 18 in Bartholomew County.
The celebration started Sept. 17 on the Hartsville town square with food, games and music. Then festivities cranked up a notch Sept. 18 as county residents watched torchbearers make their way through Hartsville, stop at Simmons Winery/450 North Brewing Co. and arrive in Columbus at the Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza.
About 1,000 residents packed into the plaza to watch the torch’s arrival, and enjoy music, activities and history displays. The local bicentennial celebration was the perfect piggyback to the library’s Steps Through Time exhibit, which allows people to learn about local historical developments. The exhibit was open throughout the weekend.
Kudos to the organizers and volunteers who made the local celebrations run smoothly, providing a unique opportunity to celebrate the state’s 200th birthday along with state and local heritage.
