Southern Indiana hosts an authentic Amish Country. In the mid-1800s, Amish families settled in Daviess County and almost 700 old-order families live in this area today. Amish living in Daviess County hold their German heritage dear and live a simple lifestyle with little or no use of modern conveniences such as electricity and cars. Visitors will see horse-drawn buggies and can visit Amish businesses such as quilt shops, cabinet and furniture stores, restaurants and bakeries. Visitors and groups can respectfully learn about the Amish lifestyle in Daviess County through guided tours, quilt auctions and community events.
Beck’s Mill was built in 1808 and has recently been completely refurbished for visitors. It is the only surviving mill in Washington County, which once had more than 60 mills. The Blue River turns the water wheel to run simple machines to make flour and corn meal, just as it did during the early settlers’ days.
On the campus of Vincennes University, The Red Skelton Performing Arts Center is located one block from the famous entertainer’s birthplace. The opera house-style seating with balconies offers an extraordinary audience experience. Each season, performances include musical theatre, comedians, concerts and other entertainment.
The German influence of Jasper is exemplified at the city’s Schnitzelbank Restaurant. Ranked in the top ten of the state’s independent restaurants, it serves German cuisine including Rolladen, Sauerbraten, Kraut Balls and other dishes commonly found in southern Germany.
At the Carnegie Center for Arts and History, a unique exhibit reveals the courageous acts of people during the fight against slavery and travels on the Underground Railroad. Artifacts, photos, newspaper accounts and a interactive multimedia presentation bring the history of the Underground Railroad to life.
At the Lyles Station Interpretive Center, celebrate the legacy of the African-American settlement of freed slaves, runaways and freemen in the 1800s. The Lyles Consolidated School has been restored and now greets visitors with a recreated 1920s classroom when the community was at its most vibrant.
The Tell City Regional Artist Guild produces jewelry, pottery, metal sculptures, paintings, photography and more.
When visitors tour Historic New Harmony they gain an appreciation for the individuals who participated in the 19th century communal experiments. Today, the town reflects the beauty and tranquility of the cultures that were developed here.
Many Southern Indiana artists have been given the distinction of an Indiana Artisan. This distinction is awarded only to the state’s best local talent who create art in one of a variety of forms. The program defines an Indiana Artisan as a Hoosier recognized for careful attention to detail, knowledge of a craft and an entrepreneurial spirit. Throughout Southern Indiana you’ll find Indiana Artisans’ work which includes crafts, artwork, wine and food items.
