GREENFIELD — A little over 100 years ago, Indiana could boast that it had one of the best mass transit systems in the United States. A system that was clean running, and connected several of the larger cities as well as the small burgs and towns in between. It was called the interurban system. Hancock County was very well served with three different lines crossing the county. But it all went away shortly after the automobile came on the scene. On April 27 at 3 p.m., transportation enthusiast Nathan Bilger will be giving a presentation on the “Interurbans of Hancock County.” The event will be held at the Hancock County Historical Society’s Chapel in the Park Museum, located at 28 North Apple St. The event is free and open to the public, and light refreshments will be served.
“Interurbans of Hancock County” focuses on the history of the interurban railway system in and around Hancock County, 1900-1941. This presentation will include a background on interurban railways in general, their place in the types of transportation available in the 1900s, and their technology. The talk will also cover a detailed look at the interurban companies, routes, and structures during their four decades in Hancock County, including a review of the interurban’s remnants around the county.
Nathan Bilger is a life-long railroad and interurban enthusiast. He has extensively researched interurban and railroad lines throughout Indiana, and maintains a website devoted to railroading in the state. He was a featured guest on an episode of the Hoosier History Live radio program, discussing the rise and fall of the Indiana interurban system. Nathan is a board member of Greenfield Historic Landmarks and has previously been involved in several local historical and community development organizations.
