Pioneer nominations sought

Thursday, July 29, 2010

The Society of Indiana Pioneers is seeking to identify exceptional pioneers to recognize and honor for their efforts in building early Indiana foundations.

The Society of Indiana Pioneers was founded in 1916, when Indiana celebrated its 100th anniversary of statehood. In preparation for the 200th anniversary of Indiana statehood in 2016, the society seeks to honor special pioneers from each of Indiana's 92 counties.

"We want people from each county to nominate early pioneer founders that helped to carve a new life out of the wilderness and establish the settlements that grew into today's Indiana cities and towns," said Co-Presidents Stanley Evans and Carolyn Rose.

This process will allow contributors to nominate ancestors who helped establish the foundations of our state in the 1700s and early 1800s.

The task of covering all 92 counties will be completed by 2016. Each year, 15 to 20 counties will be selected for honoring pioneers at each annual meeting.

At the Society of Indiana Pioneers' Centennial Celebration in 2016, all 92 county pioneers will be honored.

Nominations are currently being sought for¬ Putnam County. Any interested party can submit a nomination.

Pioneers selected will be honored at The Society of Indiana Pioneers Nov. 6 annual meeting.

Nominations must be received by Sept.15. Phone inquiries are welcome at (317) 233-6588. E-mails are welcome at societyofindianapioneers@yahoo.com.

Membership in The Society of Indiana Pioneers is open to anyone who has documentation proving descent from settlers who were living in Indiana by 1840. Associate memberships are available for anyone interested in Indiana history.

Copies of the application form are available at the Indiana State Library or at www.indianapioneers.com.

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