Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, LaGrange County, Indiana, offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and a thriving community. With its lush forests, tranquil lakes, and charming small towns, it’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
LaGrange County, Indiana, is a place where history leaves its mark on every corner, blending the charm of the past with the vibrancy of modern life. Established in 1832, LaGrange County’s roots run deep, with historic landmarks that tell the story of early settlers and the growth of this picturesque community. The John Badlam Howe Mansion, an architectural masterpiece from 1875, stands as a testament to the county’s rich heritage, while the Howe Military Academy grounds echo with the footsteps of generations past. This dedication to preserving history creates a unique atmosphere, where every building and town square offers a glimpse into the county’s storied past.
Beyond its historical significance, LaGrange County is a nature lover’s paradise. The area boasts rolling farmland, serene lakes, and lush forests that invite exploration year-round. Visitors and residents alike are drawn to the scenic Pigeon River Fish and Wildlife Area, a haven for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The county’s many lakes, including Dallas and Shipshewana Lakes, provide the perfect setting for relaxation or family fun. Every season brings new opportunities to appreciate the landscape, from vibrant autumn foliage to snowy winter trails ideal for cross-country skiing. For those who seek the peaceful charm of nature alongside small-town hospitality, LaGrange County delivers in abundance.
Cultural diversity thrives in LaGrange County, with the Amish community playing a significant role in shaping the region’s identity. Horse-drawn buggies, handcrafted goods, and the smell of fresh-baked bread contribute to the distinct character of the area. The Shipshewana Flea Market, one of the largest in the Midwest, attracts thousands who come to experience local crafts, antiques, and food. Festivals and fairs throughout the year bring the community together, celebrating everything from agriculture to the arts. Educational opportunities, such as those offered at Westview School Corporation, reflect the community’s commitment to nurturing future generations while fostering pride and unity among residents.
Living in LaGrange County means embracing a high quality of life that blends modern amenities with rural tranquility. Economic growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism provides stability and opportunity for residents. Affordable housing, low crime rates, and strong local businesses create an environment that supports families and entrepreneurs alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retirement destination or a thriving community to raise children, LaGrange County’s combination of economic vitality and small-town charm makes it an attractive place to put down roots.
For those seeking a life filled with history, natural beauty, and community spirit, LaGrange County, Indiana, stands out as a destination worth exploring and a home worth keeping. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, it offers the perfect balance of tradition and progress. Whether visiting for a weekend or considering relocation, LaGrange County invites you to discover the best of Indiana’s heartland.
Resources:
LaGrange County Visitors Bureau – (260) 463-4020 – www.lagrangecounty.org
Shipshewana Trading Place – (260) 768-4129 – www.shipshewana.com
LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation – (260) 499-4994 – www.lagrangecountyedc.com
41,946
1832
727,360,000
3,307,200
Shipshewana
LaGrange
Nestled in the charming town of Howe, Indiana, within LaGrange County, the John Badlam Howe Mansion stands as a proud testament to 19th-century architecture and the rich history of the region. Built between 1875 and 1876, this magnificent mansion embodies both Italianate and Second Empire styles, showcasing intricate brickwork and striking terra cotta accents that highlight the craftsmanship of the era. The mansion’s three-story central tower, with its distinctive mansard roof, is a defining feature of the structure, giving it a unique and stately appearance. As a key piece of LaGrange County's architectural heritage, it’s no wonder the mansion was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995.
The mansion is not just an architectural gem but also holds significant historical value, located on the grounds of the Howe Military School. This setting provides an intriguing glimpse into the past, offering visitors a chance to explore a building that has stood the test of time while witnessing the evolution of the area around it. The mansion’s white brick exterior, trimmed with stone and terra cotta, evokes a sense of grandeur and elegance, inviting all who visit to appreciate the beauty and history contained within its walls. It is one of the county’s most notable landmarks, embodying the legacy of the late 19th century in both design and craftsmanship.
Over the years, the John Badlam Howe Mansion has become a symbol of LaGrange County’s commitment to preserving its heritage. With its inclusion on the National Register, the mansion is now recognized not only for its architectural value but also for its contribution to understanding the cultural and historical context of the time period. It offers a perfect example of how historic homes can be preserved and celebrated, providing both educational and cultural enrichment to the community and visitors alike. Its unique design and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Indiana's architectural and cultural evolution.
Today, the John Badlam Howe Mansion continues to serve as an iconic landmark, embodying the spirit of LaGrange County’s past while remaining a part of the present-day community. Those who visit are treated to more than just a walk through history—they are invited to step into a world where history, culture, and beauty converge. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone interested in the charm of small-town Indiana, a visit to the mansion offers a memorable experience steeped in tradition and significance.
For those eager to explore the rich history of LaGrange County, the John Badlam Howe Mansion is a must-see destination. Its remarkable architecture, historical value, and place within the community make it an unforgettable stop for anyone visiting the region. As it continues to stand tall as a reminder of the past, the mansion invites all to appreciate the artistry and stories of an era long gone, yet still alive in its walls today.
Medical experts are always available at poison centers, ready to assist with any poisoning emergencies around the clock, every day of the year. Anyone in need can connect with them through a free, nationwide hotline.
Commodity Credit Corp • 910 S Detroit St • Lagrange • Not Available
Farm Service Agency • 910 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-3166
Highway Department • 1305 N 675 W • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4597
LA Grange County Sheriff • 875 S State Road 9 • Lagrange • (260) 463-7491
Lagrange County Public Library • 203 W Spring St • Lagrange • (260) 463-2841
Lagrange Police Dept • 1201 N Townline Rd • Lagrange • (260) 463-7031
Lagrange Sheriff Office • 875 S State Road 9 • Lagrange • (260) 463-7491
Mongo Volunteer Fire Dept Inc • 3155 N St Rd 3 • Mongo • (260) 367-2140
Parkview Lagrange Hospital • 207 N Townline Rd • Lagrange • (260) 463-9000
Shipshewana Police Dept • 345 N Morton St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4310
Stroh Vol Fire Dept • PO Box 201 • Stroh • (260) 351-2092
Topeka Police Dept • 101 S Main St • Topeka • (260) 593-2300
Topeka Volunteer Fire Dept • 110 S Main St • Topeka • (260) 593-2883
Us Faa • 695 S State Road 9 • Lagrange • (260) 463-2181
USPS • 404 Defiance St • Howe • (260) 562-2191
USPS • 300 S Detroit St # 1 • Lagrange • (260) 463-2844
USPS • 3030 N State Road 3 • Mongo • (260) 367-2211
USPS • 355 Main St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4172
USPS • 7470 S State Road 3 • South Milford • (260) 351-3221
USPS • 4120 S 1175 E • Stroh • (260) 351-3812
USPS • 129 E Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-2199
USPS • 105 N Main St • Wolcottville • (260) 854-2314
Wolcottville Police Dept • 103 W Myers St • Wolcottville • (260) 854-2930
Bell's Party Shoppe • 320 W Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-2440
Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery • 105 E Middlebury St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4725
Bread Box Bake Shop • 120 N Morton St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4629
Butcher Bob's • 409 S Railroad St • Lagrange • (260) 499-3400
Carey's Cakery & Bake Shop • 125 W Fenn St • Lagrange • (260) 463-3103
Carey's Cakery & Bake Shop • 125 W Fenn St • Lagrange • (260) 463-3103
Cariloha • 133 Harrison St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4833
Cook's Bison Ranch • 5645 E 600 S • Wolcottville • (260) 854-3297
Daily Bread Cafe • 255 Harrison St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7334
Dollar General • 4200 S 1175 E • Lagrange • (260) 351-1147
Dollar General • PO Box 802 • Shipshewana • (260) 351-1200
Dollar General Indiana • 160 Hawpatch Dr • Topeka • (260) 383-1341
Dollar General Store • 5580 N State Road 9 • Howe • (260) 351-1177
Dollar General Store • 819 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 351-1166
Dutch Blessing Inc • 260 E North Village Dr # A • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7682
E & S Sales • 1265 N State Road 5 • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4736
Excell Shoes LLC • 8480 W 500 S • Topeka • (260) 593-0280
Family Bargain Ctr LLC • 3715 N State Road 5 • Shipshewana • Not Available
Foltz Bakery • 122 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-3423
Forks County Line Store Inc • 7900 W 310 N • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4931
Fruit Cakes • 11440 W State Road 120 • Middlebury • (574) 825-1716
Fry's Buggy Shop • 185 N 1100 W • Middlebury • (574) 825-2464
Gay's Hops-N-Schnapps • 211 E Central Ave • Lagrange • (260) 463-2032
Groalliance-Howe • 7070 N 475 E • Howe • (260) 562-3229
Indian Lakes Liquor Store • 404 N Main St • Wolcottville • (260) 854-2000
J Klingler Jewelers • 119 N Main St • Wolcottville • (260) 854-4000
Juniper Hill Nursery • 6640 E 500 S • Wolcottville • (260) 351-3775
L & R Footwear • 496 E Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-3709
LA Express LTD • 511 W Central Ave • Lagrange • (260) 463-5228
Miller's Markets • 420 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-4962
Miller's Markets • 508 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-4962
Next Door Neighbor Deli Bakery • 11440 W State Road 120 • Middlebury • (574) 825-1716
Rise'n Roll • 1065 N 1150 W • Middlebury • (574) 825-4032
Save-A-Lot • 126 N Main St • Topeka • (260) 593-0034
Shawna Rae's In Shipshewana • 131 Harrison St • Shipshewana • (260) 564-0275
Town & Country Market • 3000 N State Road 3 • Mongo • (260) 367-2442
Triple L Market • 120 S Main St # C • Topeka • (260) 593-3002
Unlimited Shade Tree Farm • 10220 W 050 N • Middlebury • (260) 768-3111
Yoder Department Store • 300 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4887
Yoder's Meat & Cheese Co • 435 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4715
Yoder's Meat Processing • 555 E North Village Dr • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4324
5/20 Country Kitchen • 7995 W US Highway 20 • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4958
A Y C Express LLC • 325 North St # 10 • Topeka • Not Available
Adams Lake Pub • 5365 E 620 S • Wolcottville • (260) 854-3463
Amy's Pizza • 540 E Country Ln • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7323
Artisan Chairs • 6415 W 600 N • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4488
Bj Burritos • 2620 S State Road 5 • Topeka • (260) 593-2441
Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery • 105 E Middlebury St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4725
Chicago Joes • 101 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 499-5637
China Wok • 101 W Central Ave • Lagrange • (260) 585-8125
Coody Brown's • 1510 E 700 S • Wolcottville • (260) 854-2425
Coppertop Tavern Rstrnt & Bar • 725 W 700 S • Wolcottville • (260) 854-3000
Corn Crib Cafe • 920 N State Road 5 # D • Shipshewana • (260) 264-9777
Corner Cravings • 5990 W 200 S • Topeka • (260) 593-2700
Country Corral Restaurant • 260 E North Village Dr # A • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4589
Courtside Restaurant Lounge • 112 E Spring St • Lagrange • (260) 463-5230
Creekside Saw Mill • 5765 W 400 S • Topeka • (260) 768-8126
Crossroads Cafe • 101 N Main St • Topeka • (260) 593-2576
Daily Bread Cafe • 255 Harrison St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7334
Detroit Street Bar & Grill • 121 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 499-3303
East Of Chicago Pizza Co • 350 S Van Buren St # C • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7272
El Zorrito Mexican Restaurant • 110 Redman Dr • Topeka • (260) 593-0173
Emma Cafe & Catering Inc • 5990 W 200 S • Topeka • (260) 593-9025
Fireside Cafe • 300 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-3473
Fireside Craft Burgers & Brews • 101 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 768-3473
Five & Twenty Country • 7995 W US Highway 20 • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4958
Gathering Place Restaurant • 407 Third St • Howe • (260) 562-3584
Golden Buddha-Howe • 10 W 815 N • Howe • (260) 562-2646
Grill At Heron Creek LLC • 615 W 050 N • Lagrange • Not Available
Hometown Family Restaurant • 1109 N Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-7050
Howe Camp Sodexho • 2690 E 700 N • Howe • (260) 562-2131
Just A Little Smoke Bbq • • Lagrange • (260) 367-2206
Just A Little Smoke Bbq • • Lagrange • (260) 367-2206
Krispy Krunchy Chicken • 412 E Central Ave • Lagrange • (260) 463-7190
Lurecraft Fisherman's Shop Inc • 513 W Central Ave • Lagrange • Not Available
Mc Donald's • 615 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-8958
Next Door Neighbor Deli Bakery • 11440 W State Road 120 • Middlebury • (574) 825-1716
Pak-A-Sak • 120 N Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4313
Phillips 66 • 302 W Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-2433
Pizza Hut • 30 W 150 N • Lagrange • (260) 463-3164
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen • 8090 Eastbound • Howe • Not Available
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen • Gene Stratton Porter Travel Pl • Howe • Not Available
Red Gift Shop LLC • 461 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-3013
Romer's Restaurant & Spirits • 211 S Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 499-3393
Sbarro • 5000 E 750 N • Howe • (260) 638-5893
Sbarro • 7065 N 475 E • Howe • (260) 638-5902
Shipshewana Auction & Flea Mkt • 345 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4129
Six Mile Cafe • 5975 W US Highway 20 • Lagrange • (260) 463-2381
Sleeper Express Inc • 9045 W US Highway 20 • Shipshewana • Not Available
Smart Eating • 315 Lehman Ave • Topeka • (260) 593-3486
Smokehouse Grills & Supply • 240 N Morton St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-3114
Subway • 802 N Detroit St • Lagrange • (260) 463-7224
SUBWAY • 120 N Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4313
SUBWAY • 302 W Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-2433
Tiffany's • 414 E Lake St • Topeka • (260) 593-2988
Topeka Pizza • 118 S Babcock St • Topeka • (260) 593-3090
Turkey Lake Restaurant Tavern • 3600 S 1150 E • Lagrange • (260) 351-2920
Wall Lake Tavern • 6100 N 1200 E • Orland • (260) 829-6335
WANA-Cup Restaurant • 295 S Van Buren St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4923
Westedge Express • 6955 S State Road 5 • Topeka • (260) 593-2161
Wing Street • 30 W 150 N • Lagrange • (260) 463-3164
Woods Too • 6500 S 1170 E • Hudson • (260) 351-2967
Yoder's Homestyle Cooking • 10525 W 325 N • Shipshewana • (260) 768-3078
Yoder's Homestyle Cooking • 10525 W 325 N • Shipshewana • (260) 768-3078
Country View School • 1785 S 700 W • Topeka • (260) 768-7292
Howe School • 5755 N State Road 9 • Howe • (260) 562-2131
Lakeland Alternative School • 200 W Michigan St • Lagrange • (260) 463-2865
Lakeland High School • 805 E 075 N • Lagrange • (260) 499-2470
Lakeland Middle School • 1055 E 75 N • Lagrange • (260) 499-2480
Lakeland School Corp • 3rd & Market St • Howe • (260) 499-2440
Lakeland School Corp • 3270 N State Rd • Lagrange • (260) 499-3322
Lakeland School Corp Office • 825 E 075 N • Lagrange • (260) 499-2400
Lima Brighton Elementary Sch • 201 Market St • Howe • (260) 499-2440
Meadowview Elementary School • 7950 W 50 S • Shipshewana • (260) 768-7702
Parkside Elementary School • 1 Lemaster Cir • Lagrange • (260) 499-2430
Pleasant Ridge School • 4005 N 1150 W • Shipshewana • (574) 825-5329
Shipshewana-Scott Elementary • 325 W Middlebury St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4158
Topeka Elementary School • 138 School St • Topeka • (260) 593-2897
Westview Elementary School • 1715 S 600 W • Topeka • (260) 768-7717
Westview Junior-Sr High School • 1635 S 600 W • Topeka • (260) 768-4146
Westview School Admin Ofc • 7950 W 050 S • Shipshewana • Not Available
Westview School Corp • 325 W Middlebury St • Shipshewana • (260) 768-4296
Westview School Corp • 138 School St • Topeka • (260) 593-0212
Wolcott Mills Elementary Sch • 108 E Myers St • Wolcottville • (260) 499-2450
Here’s a list of national crisis lines in the U.S., covering a variety of situations:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services): 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or text NAMI to 741741
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)
National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929) or text 66008
Elder Abuse Hotline (Adult Protective Services): 1-833-401-0832
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1, or text 838255
National Bereavement Helpline: 1-800-395-5755
National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888 or text HELP to 233733
Emergency & Safety
Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov – Government resource for disaster preparedness and emergency tips.
Weather.com: https://www.weather.com – Real-time weather updates, forecasts, and alerts.
911.gov: https://www.911.gov – Information about emergency services and preparedness.
Health & Wellness
WebMD: https://www.webmd.com – Health information, medical advice, and symptom checkers.
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention): https://www.cdc.gov – Public health information, disease control, and safety guidelines.
MentalHealth.gov: https://www.mentalhealth.gov – Mental health resources, support, and information.
Education & Learning
Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org – Free educational resources covering various subjects.
Coursera: https://www.coursera.org – Online courses from universities around the world.
Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com – Language learning platform with fun, interactive lessons.
Finance & Money
AnnualCreditReport.com: https://www.annualcreditreport.com – Free annual credit report from the three major credit bureaus.
Investopedia: https://www.investopedia.com – Comprehensive financial education, including investing, budgeting, and money management.
IRS.gov: https://www.irs.gov – Tax information, tools, and resources for U.S. taxpayers.
Job & Career
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com – Professional networking, job searching, and career development.
Indeed: https://www.indeed.com – Job search engine with millions of listings across industries.
Glassdoor: https://www.glassdoor.com – Company reviews, salary insights, and job listings.
Travel & Navigation
Google Maps: https://maps.google.com – Navigation, traffic updates, and local business information.
TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com – Travel reviews, planning tools, and recommendations for destinations.
Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com – Short-term rentals and unique accommodations worldwide.
News & Information
Reuters: https://www.reuters.com – Global news coverage on a variety of topics.
BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news – International news source with comprehensive coverage.
Snopes: https://www.snopes.com – Fact-checking site for verifying news, rumors, and urban legends.
Entertainment & Leisure
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com – Information about movies, TV shows, actors, and film trivia.
Spotify: https://www.spotify.com – Music streaming, playlists, and podcasts.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com – Video content covering everything from tutorials to entertainment.
Technology & Tools
Speedtest by Ookla: https://www.speedtest.net – Test your internet speed in seconds.
HowStuffWorks: https://www.howstuffworks.com – Explanations and guides about how various things work.
TechRadar: https://www.techradar.com – Technology news, reviews, and guides.
