Decatur County, Indiana is located in the east central part of the state, just west of Indianapolis. It is comprised of 486 square miles and is bordered by Rush, Shelby, Bartholomew, Jennings and Jackson counties. The county seat is Greensburg.
The terrain of Decatur County is mostly flat with some rolling hills in the northeast corner. The climate in Decatur County is typical for Indiana with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures range from a high of 85 degrees Fahrenheit in July to a low of 20 degrees Fahrenheit in January. Average annual precipitation for the county is 43 inches per year.
Decatur County’s population was estimated at 25,719 people as of 2019 making it the fourth least populous county in Indiana. About 92% percent of the population identifies as White Alone while 6% identify as Black or African American alone and 1% identify as Hispanic or Latinx alone. About two-thirds (67%) are over the age of 18 while one-third (33%) are under 18 years old. The median household income for Decatur County was $50,621 in 2018 and about 11% live below poverty level.
The largest city in Decatur County is Greensburg which has a population of about 11,000 people and serves as its county seat. Other cities include Burney, Milford, St Paul and Westport which all have populations under 2,000 people each according to 2019 estimates. There are also numerous small towns located throughout Decatur County like Letts Corner, Millhousen and Westport Heights that contribute to its rural charm.
Economy of Decatur County, Indiana
Decatur County, Indiana is a rural area with a diverse economy. The county is home to large agricultural businesses, manufacturing companies and small businesses. This diversity of the economy helps create jobs and keeps the unemployment rate low.
Agriculture is the main industry in Decatur County, accounting for 17% of all jobs in the county. The most common crops grown in Decatur County are corn, soybeans and wheat. Livestock is also raised in the area with beef cattle being the most popular animal raised. In addition to traditional farming methods, there are also many agribusinesses that have grown up around Decatur County such as grain elevators, feed mills and farm supply stores that provide employment opportunities for local residents.
Manufacturing is another important industry in Decatur County and accounts for 15% of all employment in the county. Major employers include Cummins Inc., J-Bar Industries and BAE Systems who employ hundreds of people each year from Decatur County. These companies produce products ranging from automotive parts to aircraft components and provide good wages to their employees.
In addition to these two larger industries, there are numerous small businesses located throughout Decatur County that employ local residents as well. These businesses range from retail stores to restaurants and service providers like auto repair shops or medical offices that help keep the local economy strong by providing goods and services to residents of Decatur County.
Decatur County has a diversified economy with multiple industries providing jobs for its citizens. This diversity helps keep unemployment low while providing stable job opportunities for those living in or near the county.
Libraries in Decatur County, Indiana
According to babyinger, Decatur County, Indiana is home to five public libraries that serve the county’s residents. The Decatur County Public Library is located in Greensburg and is the main library for the county. This library offers a wide variety of books, magazines, movies, and other materials for patrons to check out. The library also has computers available for use and provides free Wi-Fi access for those who bring their own devices. In addition to the main library in Greensburg, there are four branch libraries located throughout the county in Letts Corner, Millhousen, Westport Heights and St. Paul.
Each of these branch libraries offers a smaller selection of materials than found at the main library in Greensburg but still provide patrons with access to a wide range of books, magazines and other materials. The branch libraries also have computers available for patron use as well as free Wi-Fi access. All five libraries offer programs such as story time sessions, book clubs and educational classes throughout the year that help promote literacy among county residents.
In addition to providing printed materials to patrons, Decatur County Public Library also offers access to digital media such as eBooks and audiobooks through their online catalog. Patrons can access these materials from any device with an internet connection from anywhere in Decatur County or beyond by using their library card number and PIN number provided by the library system upon registration.
Decatur County Public Library System provides excellent resources to its patrons with five locations conveniently located throughout the county offering books, magazines, movies and digital media along with educational programming that promote literacy among county residents.
Landmarks in Decatur County, Indiana
According to directoryaah, Decatur County, Indiana is home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks that provide insight into the county’s history and culture. The Decatur County Courthouse in Greensburg is an iconic landmark that has been standing in the center of town since 1875. This building is considered one of the finest examples of Second Empire architecture in the state and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
The Old Millhousen Church located just outside Millhousen is another notable landmark. Built by German immigrants in 1847, this historic church still stands today as a reminder of the county’s roots. The church has been preserved over time and includes an old cemetery with many unique grave markers from the 19th century.
The Letts Corner Covered Bridge is another popular landmark for visitors to Decatur County. Built in 1865, this bridge is one of only two covered bridges left in Indiana and is still open for vehicular traffic today. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and continues to be a popular spot for visitors looking to capture some picturesque scenes or take a leisurely stroll across its wooden planks.
The Greensburg Windmill Museum offers visitors a glimpse into Decatur County’s agricultural past with its collection of windmills from around the world including ones made right here in Decatur County. The museum also offers educational programs throughout the year that help promote an understanding and appreciation for this important piece of American history among county residents.
Decatur County is home to many interesting landmarks that provide insight into its rich history and culture. From historic churches and covered bridges to museums dedicated to preserving local heritage, there are plenty of places for visitors as well as locals alike to explore when visiting Decatur County, Indiana.