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Hancock County

Continuing west on the National Road, the next county is Hanock. US 40 goes through the county seat of Greenfield. While it is close to Indianapolis, Hancock County still offers a rural, friendly, small-town feel. Because of this unique mix, Hancock is one of the fastest growing counties in the state.

One of the most well-known attractions of Hancock County is the James Whitcomb Riley Home and Museum, located right on US 40. Riley, who came to be known as the “Hoosier poet”, was born in 1849, just twenty-one years after the small town of Greenfield was founded. He once described Greenfield as “the best town outside of heaven”.

Old Log Jail

At Riley Park, located a few blocks west of the birthplace and museum, the Old Log Jail and the Chapel in the Park stand. These were built in 1853 and 1856 respectively, and can be visited for just 75 cents. The chapel is used today for weddings, meetings and a museum.

Each October Hancock County celebrates the life of the Hoosier Poet with the Riley Festival. It is one of the largest craft festivals in the state, and also features a parade, live entertainment and poetry readings.

Hancock County Courthouse Sqaure

For more information on Hancock County call 317-462-2141 or see www.hccn.org.

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All Feature Articles, artwork and photographs ©1999 by Dervish Design. Some information on the 'County Info' pages is taken directly from brochures published by Visitors Bureaus and Chambers of Commerce.