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Historical Sites

Shoals, Indiana, a small town of 677 residents (2020 census) nestled along the East Fork of the White River in Martin County, boasts a rich historical tapestry woven from its natural landmarks, early settlement, and evolving community life. Below are key historical sites, including the iconic Jug Rock and locations tied to the Martin County Historical Society, with details on their significance and visiting information where available. These sites offer a window into Shoals’ past, blending natural wonder with human history in a welcoming, family-friendly setting. 

Jug Rock

  • Significance: Jug Rock is not only a geological marvel but also a historical landmark with deep ties to Shoals’ identity. This 60-foot-tall sandstone formation, the largest free-standing table rock East of the Mississippi River, dates back to the Pennsylvanian Period (325–286 million years ago). Named for its jug-like shape, it has been a point of local pride and curiosity since the town’s early days.

  • Location: Off U.S. Highway 50 on Albright Lane, just East of Shoals, within the Jug Rock Nature Preserve.

  • Managed by: Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

  • Visiting Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk. No admission; weather permitting.

  • Notes: Small gravel pull-off for parking. Short, occasionally overgrown trail to the base. Climbing is prohibited. For updates, contact the DNR at in.gov/dnr or 317-232-4200.

Martin County Historical Society Museum

  • Significance: This museum preserves the region’s history—from its days as "Memphis" in 1844 to its growth as county seat in 1871. Exhibits highlight the mother-of-pearl button industry, local Civil War history, and even the 1886 courthouse lynching.

  • Location: 220 Capitol Ave, Shoals, IN 47581

  • Managed by: Martin County Historical Society

  • Visiting Hours: Open by appointment or during events like the Catfish Festival. Call ahead to confirm.

  • Contact: 812-247-2060 or visit visitmartincountyindiana.com

  • Notes: Exhibits include the Stuckey Pottery Display, showcasing historic pottery made by early settlers; and a growing Military Memorabilia Exhibit with items from Civil War to modern-day veterans. The museum also features artifacts tied to daily life, railroads, and architectural history of the 1876 courthouse it resides in.

  • Hours (Seasonal): May–November: Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 10 AM to 2 PM

  • Latest Info: Call 812-247-1133 or check martincountyhistory.com

Hindostan Church and Cemetery

  • Significance: A solemn link to the vanished river town of Hindostan. The church and adjoining cemetery date to the 1800s, offering a glimpse into pre-Shoals life and honoring the memory of early settlers.

  • Location: 13693 N State Road 450, Shoals, IN 47581 (about 5 miles north)

  • Managed by: Local congregation and preservationists

  • Visiting Hours: Cemetery open daily from dawn to dusk; call for church service hours.

  • Contact: 812-247-3777

  • Notes: Peaceful, reflective setting. Many headstones date back to the 19th century.

Mustering Elm Park

  • Significance: This small park honors a historic elm tree where local men mustered for service during the Civil War. Though the original tree is gone, the site remains a symbol of Shoals' historic contribution to the Union effort.

  • Location: Near Main Street in central Shoals (exact location varies in local memory)

  • Managed by: Town of Shoals

  • Visiting Hours: Open daily with no formal hours

  • Contact: Shoals Town Hall at 812-247-2110

  • Notes: Quiet green space; best appreciated with local historical context

© 2024 Town of Shoals 

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