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Author Biography
Steven R. Barnett is Executive Director at the Irvington Historical Society.
Steve Barnett was raised in Irvington. Steve attended School #57, Howe High School (’63), and received a degree from Purdue University (’70). He served in the Indiana National Guard. After a brief hiatus from Irvington, Steve returned to his home town in 1977 with his wife Sue so their three children could grow up in a family friendly environment.
Steve had the good fortune of working with U. S. Representative Andy Jacobs, Jr. and U. S. Representative Julia Carson in the Indianapolis Congressional District Office helping constituents.
After his retirement, Steve became the executive director of the Irvington Historical Society and curator of the Bona Thompson Memorial Center until 2025. Steve was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel by Gov. Wallace G. Wilkinson for service to veterans, and he was appointed a Sagamore of the Wabash by Gov. Joseph Kernan for service to Indiana. In 2016, Steve was named Marion County Historian.
Steven R. Barnett’s Story Archive
100 Years Ago This Week: July 29-Aug. 4
From The Indianapolis Star, Thursday, August 3, 1916: The proposed codification of the city ordinances before the Indianapolis city council has a section making the molestation of any birds, their nests, eggs or young punishable by a fine up to $10 (2015: $220). Earlier, the council passed a provision that … Read More
100 Years Ago This Week: July 22-28
From The Indianapolis Star, Friday, July 28, 1916: The public drinking cup in Indiana will no longer be used after the end of the month. Harry E. Barnard, Indiana pure food commissioner, said the order of the state board of health means the passing of the old tin cup hanging … Read More
World War I 100 Years Ago: July 22-28
From The Indianapolis Star, Friday, July 28, 1916: “We need 3,000 men,” said Major Jesse T. Johnson, Indiana National Guard inspector general, who is making arrangements to open a recruiting office in downtown Indianapolis. The recruits will enlist for three years active service and three years as reserves. They will … Read More
100 Years Ago This Week: July 15-21
From The Indianapolis Star, Wednesday, July 19, 1916: “City planning is a scientific, rational scheme of looking ahead and Indianapolis has got to take it up or be left in the race of American cities…. (Cities) are realizing there must be careful coordinating of rail and street traffic systems to … Read More
World War I 100 Years Ago: July 15-21
From The Indianapolis Star, Friday, July 21, 1916: A carload of comfort for the Indiana soldiers on the Mexican border is the goal set by the Women’s Press Club of Indiana. Governor Ralston has designated the Women’s Press Club to take charge of the Soldiers’ Comfort Fund, and the club … Read More