County Nuggets
- America 250 - Indiana
- Educational Information
- Current: County Nuggets
KOSCIUSKO COUNTY:
Warsaw's orthopedic industry began in 1895 when Revra DePuy founded DePuy Manufacturing, followed by the rise of Zimmer in 1927 and Biomet in 977, which later merged to form Zimmer Biomet. Today Warsaw is home to the world's highest concentration of orthopedic design and manufacturing, producing roughly one-third of the world's orthopedic devices and nearly two-thirds of hip and knee implants. The industry continues to expand with new jobs, alongside a shift toward digital health, robotics, and AI-driven solutions. Supported by a $30 million state grant, Ortho Worx talent programs, and advanced research collaborations, Warsaw firmly remains the Orthopedic Capital of the World.
Kosciusko is home to over 100 glacial lakes. In Indiana, both the largest natural lake, Lake Wawasee, and the deepest, Lake Tippecanoe, are in Kosciusko County. Work by university scientists, educators and conservationists makes Kosciusko lakes the best studied lakes In Indiana. Local lakes contribute over $414 million annually to Kosciusko County's economy.
County Name Here
Boone County, Indiana blends deep historic roots with a vibrant, forward-looking spirit in the heart of Central Indiana. Established in 1830 and named for Daniel Boone, the county is known for its rich farmland, strong communities, and growing towns—each offering its own unique character, from charming rural communities to thriving, fast-growing hubs. Visitors can explore historic downtowns, enjoy local dining and shopping, and experience festivals, parks, trails, and farm-fresh attractions throughout the county. With a balance of rural heritage and modern momentum, Boone County is a place where tradition and innovation meet, offering something special for residents and visitors alike.
In 2026, Boone County proudly becomes BOOM County as it joins the nation in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Visitors and residents are invited to take part in a yearlong lineup of events, exhibits, and experiences that honor America's history while showcasing the people, places, and traditions that make Boone County unique. Highlights include wreath-laying ceremonies honoring local Revolutionary War patriots, Abraham Lincoln experiences, community celebrations, expanded July 4th festivities, and educational programs hosted by local libraries. Whether planning a day trip or a longer stay, BOOM County offers meaningful ways to celebrate, connect, and explore during this historic milestone. Learn more and view upcoming events at discoverboonecounty.com.
Private William Whistler died on the ill-fated Lady Franklin Bay Expedition (AKA Greely Expedition) which was part of the International Polar Expedition. The expedition set sail in July 1881, and after two years in the Arctic and two failed resupply missions, the party headed south in small boats. When they were finally rescued in 1884, only 7 had survived. Eighteen of the party, including William Whistler had died from starvation and exposure. He is buried in the Whistler Cemetery near Rockfield, Carroll County, Indiana.
KOSCIUSKO- Kosciusko County is home to over 100 glacial lakes. Both the largest natural lake, Lake Wawasee, and
the deepest, Lake Tippecanoe, are in Kosciusko County. Work by university scientists, educators, and
conservationists make Kosciusko County lakes the best-studied lakes in Indiana. Local lakes contribute over $414
million annually to Kosciusko County's economy.
"Marshall Co. History Nugget"
The Bourbon Fair was the first fair established in Marshall County, started in 1872. That first fair was held in a school house a mile and a half cast of Bourbon. Later the crowds were as large as 10,000 to 14,000 visitors. The fairs were usually held in late September or early October and often school would dismiss for the day so students could attend the fair. Horse racing was the big attraction, held at the grandstand with its half mile track. By the 1960s enthusiasm for the fair was failing, and the year 1965 saw no Bourbon fair at all.
Indian Cooking Stone:
Marshall County has an Indian cooking stone. It was found on the farm of D. W. Weaver of Union Township and given to the Marshall County Historical Society in 1936. The cooking stone gives a glimpse of the traditional Potawatomi way of living. The historical marker was placed in 1936, Marshall County's centennial.
Bourbon Old Town Pump:
Bourbon has the only monument in the world dedicated to the memory of an old town pump. In 1872, the town ordered a well built at Main and Center, where a crystal spring had bubbled in “Indian times.” The well was dug and bricked, and Henry Leiter was paid $7.50 for constructing the original “Old Town Pump.” The pump was made from sassafras and encased in timber for a square appearance. For many years, the town pump slaked thirst with sparkling cold water drawn from an underground vein. Eventually, the well was capped and the pump removed.The memorial to the pump was dedicated on June 30, 1929. It was later included in Ripley’s Believe It or Not as the only monument of its kind in the world.
Orange County, Indiana was named for Orange County, North Carolina, in turn named for the Dutch Protestant House of Orange.
The early settlers were mostly Quakers fleeing slavery in North Carolina. The first settler of Orange County arrived in Southeast Township and was John Hollowell. He lived in a cave, along the Patoka River, South of Valene, until his cabin was built.
Orange County was named after Orange County, North Carolina. The early settlers were mostly Quakers fleeing slavery in North Carolina. The first settler to arrive was John Hollowell in 1807. He settled in Southeast Township. He lived in a cave south of Valeene until his cabin was built.
Born and raised in Know, Starke County Indiana, Stuart Gorrell had measles in May 1904... and made honor roll in first grade.... but that's not his claim to fame.
Gorrell attended Indiana University where he became friends with fellow student Hoagy Carmichael. After hearing Carmichael play a newly composed melody at a party, Gorrell stayed up all night with Carmichael working on the song and ended up writing lyrics for it --"Georgia on My Mind". Following his brief song-writer career, Gorrell became a banker.
WHITLEY COUNTY
One of Indiana’s four recognized Revolutionary War battle sites is located in Union Township, Whitley County. On/or about November 5, 1780, Colonel Augustin de la Balme and his soldiers were in a battle against Chief Little Turtle and his Miami warriors at a spot near the Eel River. A large memorial boulder marks the location of the battle. A commemoration of the battle is held on the first Saturday of November each year by the local DAR chapter.
