elkhart history Archives

Jazz fest delivered fantastic high notes at ill-fated Midway Motor Lodge

The hotel never quite delivered on its promise, but it gave life to the city's biggest event.

Celebrate stories and storytellers ‘On The Heritage Tale’

Elkhart’s story is about to be told “On The Heritage Tale.” Authors, musicians and other creatives will be featured in a week-long celebration at the downtown library the week of […]

Palm Sunday tornadoes revealed Huffman’s strong will and steady hand

The Palm Sunday tornadoes brought death and destruction to Indiana in 1965. The photographer capturing that history had a story of his own.

Judge Redding wanted reform but failed to beat Cosentino

A brigade of men in light-colored suits moved confidently on the sidewalk leading to the Elkhart County Courthouse. In the middle of this who’s who of local lawyers was the […]
Traffic goes under downtown Elkhart's Arch

Looming over downtown, the costly Arch was toppled by critics

The Arch was memorable, costly and criticized as a short-lived 1960s Main Street attraction.

The Klan wanted influence. One Elkhart leader took a stand.

A KKK grand dragon wielded great political power in 1920s Indiana. But one man made sure he knew he wasn't welcome in Elkhart.

Honoring Elkhart’s heroes: Veteran of the Month

We find Elkhart service members to highlight through Fold3, the Digital Library resource available through EPL. Fold3 houses millions of documents, photos, maps, records and more for U.S. wars going […]

Al and Helen Free understood science and changed the world

Meet Al and Helen Free. They raised six kids, committed themselves to educating youth, served the community, and changed the world.

Ben Barnes ‘was second to none, but never better than anyone else’

Role model, author, leader - Ben Barnes was a powerful and caring presence for Elkhart
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