Billie Creek Village was a surprising hidden gem and a step back in history for us. I wanted to…read morevisit a couple covered bridges in Parke County and stumbled across this charming recreated 19th century village. There are three covered bridges in Billie Creek. One of the three bridges only accommodates foot traffic, while the other two are passable by car. Two of the bridges were relocated to the village from other parts of Parke County. The village itself is made up of about 20 historic buildings that have been relocated to the site. We were amazed that we could walk through the buildings and find period furnishings. I particularly like the information describing the history and inhabitants of the buildings. We saw two churches, a schoolhouse, log cabin and doctor's office. The school house contains its original furnishings and many books. The original modest home of Indiana's 10th governor, Joseph A. Wright, is on the site, complete with law books and a spinning wheel. We bought cookies at the Gaebler's Cafe, which also serves coffee and sandwiches. You can buy sodas and candy at the General Store. Behind the barn are Billy goats. There is a Civil War era house on the grounds, also. Restrooms are available and clean. Parking is free. Not all the buildings are wheelchair accessible, but several are. Billie Creek is a great place to bring kids to learn about early settlements in Indiana. Admission is free, but they do ask for donations to help with maintenance. Wear good walking shoes. I think they have vendors and other activities at the village during the Covered Bridge Festival.

One of the first things I noticed when I began traveling to Putnam County regularly during my…read morefather's illness and after his death was that Rockville, Indiana is not actually far from Putnam County. While Rockville is mostly known for the Covered Bridge Festival, it's also home to Billie Creek Village. Billie Creek is smack dab in Parke County. It takes its name from the nearby Williams Creek. It's a 70-acre history museum and park with around 38 historical buildings/structures and an abundance of antiques and such. Buildings are mostly mid-19th century to early 20th century. The 1913 Schoolhouse is considered a highlight. You'll likely think of a place like Conner Prairie when you visit, though truthfully I thought more of a place like Chesterfield (minus the alternative spirituality focus). There are three covered bridges (all on the National Register of Historic Places) Billie Creek has an interesting history. It has closed at least a couple times due to financial issues. It was purchased in 2022 and is currently free to visit the buildings (though there are events that do have a price and there's a general store and a cafe in the Gaebler building now). I will note that you can visit from 8am-4pm daily, however, the cafe is 6am-2pm. Buildings include an 1830s cabin, the general store, a village bank (was a 19th century post-office), a blacksmith shop, Burr Mill, Chataqua Pavilion, a doctor's office, Governor Wright Home, a maple syrup camp, refreshment stand (built in 1911), St. Joseph's Catholic Church (built in 1886), Union Baptist Church, and quite a bit more. There are events throughout the year - the website has been redeveloped (I submitted the new link) and is quite nicely done with the schedule. Is accessibility perfect? Definitely not. These are historic buildings and accessibility simply isn't always workable. However, it's better than expected. This is also a more casual experience. Don't go expecting all the scenes and scenarios and cosplay that you'll find at Conner Prairie - this is a historic village that for me is more relaxing, more immersive, and pretty amazing to experience in Rockville (which is, in itself, a beautiful area). If you're visiting the area, Billie Creek is a great stop along with the area's covered bridges and Raccoon Lake not too far away. For kids on summer vacation, this is definitely worth a stop!

I am a self proclaimed presidential history "nerd". I've read a biography on each president in…read moreorder (currently reading F.D.R.), and my bucket list includes visiting all their birth and burial places. I also make it a point to visit presidential libraries, national historic sites, etc. I've seen DOZENS of locations now, and I can honestly say Grouseland is - by far - one of the most impressive locations I've visited. The amount of authentic items dating back to William Henry Harrison is jaw dropping! Additionally, the collection of items not necessarily related to Harrison are breathtaking. For example, they own an impressive collection of real signatures as far back as Adams, Madison, and John Quincy Adams (to name just a few). The staff was fantastic. The day I visited, their computer system was down and they were unable to run my card for the entry fee. No matter, they let me get back with them later. Their volunteers are knowledgeable about their collections and items within the home. Can't say enough about this "diamond in the rough" presidential history site. I was truly blown away...

I recommend checking this out if you are ever here it is the home of William Henry Harrison it is…read morepretty and if you are a history buff check this place out

Some say the official state bird of Indiana is the cardinal. For hoosier basketball fans, it's…read moreundeniably Larry Bird. Having opened on May 30th, The Larry Bird Museum is a tribute to one of the NBA's greats and a man who has continued to be significant to basketball in Indiana and beyond even beyond his retirement. Born in West Baden Springs, Indiana, Bird played for Springs Valley High School and Indiana State University before spending his professional career with the Boston Celtics. Few remember that Bird actually played for Bob Knight's Hoosiers initially, however, had some trouble adapting to college and ended up first at a junior college (Northwood Institute) before transferring to Indiana State. To say he elevated ISU basketball is an understatement - and as many of us know, his senior year the team was undefeated and #1 until losing in the NCAA Championship game to Magic Johnson's Michigan State Spartans. Both Bird and Johnson would become known as a couple of the greatest players to ever play the game in the NBA. While he always played for the Celtics, Bird would return to Indiana after retiring and would be the coach of the Pacers (taking the team to the NBA Finals in 2000) and then the President of Basketball Operations. Bird is the only person to win an MVP as player along with Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year honors. The Larry Bird Museum is adjacent to the Convention Center in Terre Haute. Admission is free, though reservations are required through an online portal. Visitors to the museum can delve into various exhibits showcasing rare memorabilia, iconic moments, and interactive displays that highlight Bird's unmatched skill, commitment, and influence on the sport. Bird himself showed up for the grand opening on May 30th and has fully supported the museum's development. Self-guided tours are available and group tours/field trips are available on a limited basis. The museum is noting its popularity during its first week and so those with reservations need to be prepared to flex a bit in terms of timing, however, I found everything running quite smoothly and the museum is practically a must-visit for Indiana basketball fans, Larry Bird fans, and anyone visiting Terre Haute (which is only about 70 miles from Indy - an easy day trip with lots more to do in the city). Parking is available in the garage at 811 Cherry Street. No food or beverages are allowed in the museum. It's important to note that videography is not allowed - there are licensing restrictions with some of the items in the museum. However, photographs are allowed. This is a marvelous tribute to one of Indiana's iconic basketball players and it's quite awesome to see it come to life in Terre Haute. It's ideally located and very well accessible throughout. This is not what I'd call anything close to an all-day experience, however, it can easily be a meaningful part of a day in Terre Haute with plenty of hotels and restaurants around it.

Aa a native to Terre Haute, Larry Bird is woven into the fabric of my memories of growing up in…read morethis town. It is very very cool and completely a Terre Haute thing to have this museum commemorating the life and legacy of Larry Bird. Its charming and I kind of love it. Not large, actually quite small, but really well done with engaging, colorful, relevant and fun installations around the museum. Lots to read, some championship rings, photos from growing up in French Lick and the story of Larry Bird. I did not know he was an excellent trash talker, that he first went to Indiana University before attending Indiana State University and that the 3-point shot came into play in the NBA during his early rise in the league. There is a video to understand the story of Larry Bird that lasts about 5 minutes. No gift shop. You can park in the Convention Center Parking Garage on the backside of the museum (for $1 an hour and I believe off of Cherry Street). It does not hurt that this place is located right next to two great local bars (maybe a 30 second walk). A good place to start or end your time at the Larry Bird Museum. Terre Haute is famously known for a few things (Coca Cola bottle) and Larry Bird is one of them. So it is only appropriate and fun that this little museum is here.

We had such a wonderful time visiting the David Davis Mansion. Our tour guide, Jeff, gave us a long…read moreand detailed tour that was both informative and engaging. He was extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and made the history of the mansion come alive. One highlight was learning about David Davis's close connection to Abraham Lincoln, which added an even deeper historical significance to our visit. That piece of history was fascinating and memorable. We highly recommend the David Davis Mansion to anyone visiting Bloomington. It's a beautiful historic home with a rich story, and with guides like Jeff, you're guaranteed an excellent experience.

We toured the David Davis Mansion on a chilly December afternoon. There was one else there for a…read moretour so we had our own private tour. The mansion was beautiful and decorated for Christmas. The house has many artifacts that are true to the Davis family. We learned a treasure of information from our tour guide Jeff. He was able to answer both of our questions and we had many of them. Jeff was able to tailor the tour to our interests providing a personalized experience. This tour of an exquisite mansion was top-notch due to Jeff and his wealth of knowledge and pleasant personality.

I have been to this museum three times. The first time was when I was a child with my mother and…read moresister. When I was in eighth grade, my middle school class got to go here for a field trip. We got to meet Eva and talk to her about her experiences, which was very cool. I, now an adult, recently visited again. Eva has now passed away, but her story and legacy is laced throughout this museum. The museum staff was very respectful and knowledgeable. You can let them guide you through the museum or go at your own pace. It's a small museum, but it has very cool exhibits and the personal touch from a real survivor is awesome. I, as a teacher, enjoyed the various discussion questions prompted throughout the museum, which I assume are mostly for school children on trips. After all, teaching children history, how to spot a leader or policy that doesn't have everyone's best interest in mind, and compassion is the best way to prevent another tragic event like the Holocaust.

Although you may be well versed in history regarding WWII and the Holocaust, this museum takes you…read moreon a personal journey that opens your understanding to a new level. The museum uses a timeline display to walk you through the life of Eva Kor, one of the children who was a test subject of the evil, yes, truly evil, Dr Mengele twin experiments as part of the attempted genocide of Jews and any non-aryan people under the rule of Nazi Germany. But this isn't a "shock" theater of horrific images. Rather, it's a journey in Eva's triumph of survival and ultimately, forgiveness that has led to her call to action for people to do what is right. Although you could read through all the displays in less than an hour, I encourage visitors to go around noon so that they can read through the material, and then stay to listen to the speakers that are often available beginning at 1 p.m. Although the founder/central focus of the museum was not there during my visit, I was able to listen to "Walt" who was born Jewish in Germany in 1920 and escaped to America in 1939 when his family's travel permits came through (his father had been taken to a concentration camp about 5 weeks earlier, but was released/deported with the family.) I learned things that shocked me. I learned things that were never taught in our "Pro-America" school system. I learned how ISOLATION and GREED led our country to finance the rise of Nazi military power which led to our later having to fight an enemy who was of our own making. I was both shocked and angered, but with that came the understanding of how these horrific things became unstoppable. After the lecture, I was able to spend time with Walt (who was the same age as my late father). He still loves Germany, just not what it did. He has gone back and visited and holds no hatred for the country even after all that happened. I was totally surprised by this as well. And that is a big part of what makes this museum special. It isn't just about the horrors. It is a tool to be used so that we become vigilant and proactive in fighting the circumstances of wrong doing. Forgiveness is a key to being able to move on, but first, we have to stop those things that we know are wrong, even at the risk of our own safety. I also suggest allowing time to go into the digital interactive theater. If you don't have the opportunity to ask Eva or one of the speakers directly, you can go to this theater and see a life sized image of Eva waiting to be asked questions. Pushing a button on the remote while you ask allows the computer to find the best match of a response where the image of Eva then tells of her experience. I asked a couple questions and was amazed at how these pre-recorded answers addressed my questions. It was so lifelike that at times, I would nearly forget that she was just an image instead of really being there. The story of how she was experimented on while her twin was held for comparison was shocking. If she had died from the injection, her sister would have been killed immediately so that the scientists could compare the autopsies to record the differences. Then her sister was injected with something else and Eva was held. Fortunately, both survived until liberation came though complications eventually claimed her sister much earlier than expected. Imagine being only 10 years old and being experimented on. What courage that must require. The museum is one that will give you far more than your $5 worth in understanding and insight. Just give yourself time to experience this place...it isn't something you want to rush through. Review #2526

I must confess, I didn't know Montgomery County had a visitor's bureau until I was almost through…read moremy visit. I had walked right by the building, but didn't notice a sign. So once I saw the Bureau on the historic downtown map, I went back over to check it out and pick up information. The name is a little confusing as on the wall, it's called visitor center and on the map it's call visitor bureau. The inconsistency makes it tough if you are searching Yelp based on name. The center is quite nice for a small town with coffee and restrooms available. The staff was friendly and was working on a project when I walked in, but stopped to talk and answer questions. They have flyers and maps that were helpful. There is 2-hour street parking available. The Bureau is directly across the street from the Courthouse.

From the owner: The Montgomery County Visitors & Convention Bureau is your curator to the cultural and creative…read moreabundance that lies in and around Crawfordsville, "the Athens of Indiana." Let the MCVCB guide you to experiences of astounding historical achievement, dramatic natural splendor, fantastic festivals and one-of-a-kind shopping and dining. For day trips or family vacations, Montgomery County, Indiana is the place to create a masterpiece of memories.

My husband and I went to the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art on a day when the mansion was…read moreclosed. It was the only time that we could fit it into our schedule. Why bother visiting if the mansion is closed, you ask. There is a cute sculpture garden behind the mansion that is open even when the mansion is closed. There are close to 30 sculptures. It is really fun to take a walk through the garden and see the statues. It will give you something to talk about and plenty of photo opportunities. If the outside is this fun, I can't wait to see the inside!

Neat place! In the 60's grew up in Lafayette, running past…read morethis house on the way to the Brodsky house. So to me, this house will always be Potter's Mansion, the owners prior to the Haans. With that said, for $10 you can take a self-guided tour into a different world. There are plenty of staff available to answer questions and they seem very knowledgeable about the home's construction, previous owners, art and artifacts. I really enjoyed looking at the furniture, but I anticipated more explanations about the origin of each piece. I did not expect to see the volume of "new" artist items they had on display. They also offer an outdoor garden walk, but the day I was there it was too cold to enjoy an outing. Maybe next time...

It's a new bridge but still done in that classic style. We took this in before the Covered Bridge…read moreFestival so we could enjoy the beautiful area before the crowds. If you come during the festival this place is filled with activities and vendors

Such a pretty view of a little waterfall near this old mill! There's also a historic marker nearby…read more Phone service connectivity is a major issue when touring Parke County, so it was a huge perk to get free wifi at this location as I planned my next stop.

Investigators from Bellator Private Investigations gave me an excellent investigation with pictures…read moreand a full report. I was very pleased with their work.