Brown County Indiana

In 1809 the United States acquired land from the Indians, part of which forms the southwest section of what is now Brown County. By the treaty of St. Mary's in 1818, considerably more territory became the property of the government, and this included Brown County land. The town of Nashville was incorporated in 1872, water powered grist blacksmith, a church and a post office. A doctor lived in almost every village. In 1881 there were 20 doctors in the county, and 37 churches: Methodist, United Brethren, Baptist, Christian, Presbyterian, and New Light. By 1900 there were 73 one room school houses. Brown County State Park opened in 1931 offering a lodge, cabins for rents, picnic area, a swimming pool, and miles of trails. Today there is Yellowwood State Forest, the Hoosier National Forest, Lake Monroe, and Lake Lemon.

A History of Brown County

A colony of artists was drawn to Brown County. In 1907 T. C. Steele built a home near Belmont and Adolph Shulz came to Nashville. Will Vawter, V. J. Cariani, Marie Goth, C. Curry Bohm, Dale Bessire, and many others also moved to Nashville; and in that small village of 323 people the Brown County Art Gallery opened its doors to the public in 1926. In 1954 a larger gallery was built on East Main Street, and an Art Guild established a gallery in the old Minor House on Van Buren Street.

Nashville an Artists Colony

The Nashville House is a must stop. A family style fried chicken dinner with corn fritters and cold slaw spiked with sage alone makes the one hour scenic drive from Indianapolis more than worth it. Stop in their general store and stock up on their infamous apple butter and sassafras tea bark. This town of Nashville is just one antique shop and boutique after another. From handcrafted shawls and hand dripped candles to a fantastic selection of local artist paintings and antique finds. There is the Little Nashville Express - a 20 minute narrated train ride that takes visitors through the village.

Restaurants and Shops

Fall in Brown County Indiana is a mecca of color. A field of mums on State Road 135 is a joy to behold. And the color of turning leavings and vistas of hills is second to none. This is what artist's dreams are made of. The perfect location all year long. Seasonal pleasures are abundant for adventuresome explorers, weekend athletes or visitors looking for a quiet country getaway. Featuring Indiana's largest and best-known state park, Brown County has it all. Ski, golf, walk, run, hike, ride, boat, fish, swim, or study birds and local wildlife. Plus, you can enjoy well-known stars and local entertainers in productions throughout the community. In Brown County, the limitations are simply up to you. The displayed photos are courtesy of the Brown County Convention and Visitors Bureau.