Did you know that Indiana is called the “Mother of Vice Presidents?" Indiana's 6 Vice President's are Schuyler Colfax, Thomas A. Hendricks, Charles W. Fairbanks, Thomas Marshall, Dan Quayle and Mike Pence. We are not short of presidents either. Indiana is known for 3 presidents. Check out our list of other Indiana fun facts.
Abraham Lincoln
Although Abraham Lincoln was born in Kentucky, much of who he became was shaped in southern Indiana. He spent 14 important years there, from the time he was 7 until he turned 21, later saying, “There I grew up.” Life in Spencer County was tough and required hard physical labor, which helped build the resilience and determination Lincoln became known for. During his years in Indiana, he also experienced deep personal loss with the deaths of his mother and sister. Today, his childhood is remembered at the Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, which marks the place where his character truly began to form.
William Henry Harrison
William Henry Harrison played a major role in Indiana long before becoming the ninth President of the United States. He served as the first Governor of the Indiana Territory from 1801 to 1812 and lived in Vincennes, where he built a large home called Grouseland that still stands today. While in Indiana, Harrison gained national attention for leading American forces at the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811. That victory made him a well-known figure across the country and later inspired the famous campaign slogan, “Tippecanoe and Tyler Too.”
Benjamin Harrison
Benjamin Harrison, the grandson of William Henry Harrison, is the only U.S. President elected from Indiana. He moved to Indianapolis in 1854, where he built a career as a lawyer and became active in public service. During the Civil War, he led the 70th Indiana Volunteer Infantry, further strengthening his reputation in the state. He later represented Indiana in the U.S. Senate and ran his presidential campaign from his home in Indianapolis in 1888. Harrison lived in Indiana for the rest of his life and is buried at Crown Hill Cemetery, one of the state’s most historic landmarks.
List of Free Days Across the State
As a federal holiday, President's Day is an opportunity for individuals to celebrate and honor the accomplishments of past US presidents. Whether it's through visiting historic sites or indulging in unique cultural experiences, there is much to explore and appreciate on this day. For those residing in Indiana, there are a plethora of attractions and places that are free of cost on President's Day, perfect for celebrating the holiday without breaking the bank.
State Historic Sites:
The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites is a statewide museum system with 12 locations. Whether interested in art or architecture, history or science, there’s something for everyone and every interest. The Indiana State Museum is located in White River State Park in the heart of downtown Indianapolis and offers a year-round schedule of changing exhibits, hands-on experiences, programs and events. The 11 state historic sites are located throughout Indiana, stretching from Rome City in northeastern Indiana to Evansville in the southwest.
Indiana State Museum:
Situated in downtown Indianapolis, the Indiana State Museum offers a variety of exhibits that explore the history and culture of Indiana. From learning about prehistoric Indiana to the struggles of the Civil War, the museum offers a comprehensive look into Indiana's past. On President's Day, the museum waives its entry fee, making it an ideal destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.
NCAA Hall of Champions
The NCAA Hall of Champions boasts two-levels of interactive exhibits to engage visitors and create a true-to-life understanding of what it takes to make the grade.On the first level, all 24 NCAA sports are represented and include trivia challenges, current team rankings, video highlights, and artifacts donated from colleges around the nation. Play, on the second level, is a fully interactive area to compete virtually and hands-on through sports simulators, a 1930s retro gymnasium, ski simulator and more.
Children's Museum of Indianapolis:
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a premier destination for families seeking educational and entertaining experiences for their children. With a wide range of interactive exhibits, the museum offers an opportunity for children to learn through play and exploration. On President's Day, the museum is free for all visitors, making it a perfect destination for families seeking an affordable and enriching experience. (Free advance tickets required).
