Indiana, known for its rich history and cultural heritage, also harbors some of the most intriguing abandoned places. Ghost towns, remnants of once-thriving communities, now stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. Here are seven ghost towns in Indiana that offer a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past.
Dunn
Once a bustling town established in 1907, Dunn was named after Captain James Dunn. It featured stores, a grain elevator, and homes but dissolved by 1913 due to the lack of natural resources. Today, explorers can find the old grain silo and overgrown rail lines.
Brisco
There was a time where Brisco (also known as Briscoe) was the name of a small town located in Warren County, Indiana. As of the 20th century, this tiny town that consisted of a one-room school and general store has ceased to exist. In fact, you are going to have a hard time finding it on a map! This town was located roughly nine miles to the northwest of Williamsport.
Sloan
Sloan is the name of a town that was once located between Jordan Township and Steuben Township. It was less than a mile to the east of a town called Hedrick. By in the 1990s, the railroad that ran through the town had ceased to operate and the tracks have since been removed. As you can see from the picture, nothing remains but a few buildings being reclaimed by nature.
Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown is the name of a town that was once located in the northern portion of Delaware County. The economy of the town thrived thanks to a flower and saw mill. The only thing that still exists of the town today is the Elizabethtown Cemetery.
Granville
Granville is the name of a town that was once located in Tippecanoe County. The town was inhabited by Wea Native Americans during the 1830s. There is a cemetery near the east of where the town was across from the Wabash River that still has the name of the town on it.
Baltimore
This house in Baltimore, Indiana is the only surviving structure. Baltimore was established in 1829 with 70 residents residing in the town. While the town was on track for growth, the completion of the Wabash and Erie Canal ultimately sealed its demise.
Corwin
There are actually two abandoned Corwins in Indiana. This one, in Tippecanoe County, never was able to grow as needed in order to flourish. These grain elevators can still be found there today.
Conclusion
These ghost towns are not just tourist destinations; they are historical archives. They remind us of the impermanence of human endeavors and the relentless march of time. Visiting these sites is a journey through Indiana’s hidden narrative, one that tells stories of hope, growth, and eventual decline. Whether you’re an urban explorer, a history buff, or simply curious, these seven ghost towns are must-visit locations that offer a profound perspective on Indiana’s past.