I really liked Ligonier, it seemed like a town very proud of its history.

 

 

...and some exploring!

That building looks dangerously unstable!

 

Jewish people played an important part in the early settlement and development of Ligonier, but I don't think there's a significant Jewish presence, if any Jewish presence at all, in the town now. I believe there's a local museum that commemorates that heritage. I haven't been through there in a few years, and I'm saddened to read that the carriage works building was demolished. It was a large building and a significant part of the town's built environment.

I'm sure I could just google it, Rob.  But do you have any pictures of this carriage works building?

Sorry. Every time I've driven through there I've been returning from a trip to Chicago and seeking alternative scenery instead of the usual US 30 grind, and I've been tired. Each time I think, "I've gotta come back here and take photos." I should have learned by now; so many times I've said that about a particular building along the road and returned a couple of months later to find it demolished or fire-gutted. It's important not to postpone taking photos.

 

While you're roaming northern Indiana, I recommend a visit to Bristol. It's kind of charming in some places and kind of red-necky in others and has a history of resistance to federal "meddling" but a sense of tolerance that on the surface seems incongruous. While you're there, don't miss Bonneyville Mill County Park, centered around a still-functioning water-powered grist mill. I recommend a summer visit, when the flower gardens in the park have come to full bloom.

awesome! sets quite an example -- more towns of that size should do murals and mark their heritage. and bravo on the bonus exploration site. except for more cooperative weather, this has basically everything you want in a thread.

Looks like some street trees are in order. Thanks for the pics!

^Agreed.