Article Archives: Building Blocks

Building Blocks is a monthly feature by historian Steve Barnett about historic properties on the east side of Indianapolis.

The Standard of Groceries

August 25, 2016 | by Steven R. Barnett

Stopping by the supermarket on the way home from work to pick up a roasted chicken or the “fixin’s” for a quick meal is so commonplace today that we don’t give it a second thought. Ah, the supermarket; the truly great symbol of “America the land of plenty,” providing not … Read More

The “Ice House”

July 28, 2016 | by Steven R. Barnett

While we may complain of sweltering summer days of ninety degree temperatures, relief is readily available in our air conditioned homes or businesses and shopping centers. We suffer through traffic delays in our air conditioned cars, and even if we are out-of-doors relaxing in a shaded spot, a refreshing iced … Read More

The Pennsy

June 23, 2016 | by Steven R. Barnett

Running through the middle of Irvington and extending to the east towards Cumberland is a ribbon of asphalt that walkers and bikers now enjoy as the “Pennsy Trail.” While today many find this serene byway a respite from daily life, for nearly 130 years a silver ribbon of steel rail … Read More

A Patch of Green

May 26, 2016 | by Steven R. Barnett

The end of May 2016 we will commemorate the 100th running of the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” and the 150th Memorial Day, the decorating of the graves of the fallen. Thousands will gather at the Speedway Oval to cheer on the fleet, the swift and at cemeteries across Indiana and … Read More

Ellenberger Park

April 28, 2016 | by Steven R. Barnett

Not all of the building blocks that make up our neighborhoods are brick and mortar. There are woods and meadows — green space to ease the eyes and refresh the soul. When my mother came to Indianapolis from the gritty industrial city of Akron, Ohio — Rubber City — she … Read More