Centerville was platted in 1814 on land that once belonged to the Miami Indians and was settled by Quakers from Carolina and Virginia. In 1828, the National Road, our Main Street, was surveyed and later became the first improved section of the trail in 1850 by a Special Act of the U.S. Congress.
Centerville's cobblestone street was a major stop along the trail to the West. During the height of the Gold Rush, 49,000 wagons would travel along our street each year. As a result, our businesses boomed and our leaders became influential across the entire country. The following people are a sampling of what Centerville had to offer in the 1800's: John Harvey became Gov. of North Dakota Territory; John Burbank became Governor Of Kansas; Joe Kibbey became Governor Of Arizona Territory; General Lew Wallace became Governor Of New Mexico Territory; U.S. Congressman George Julian was "The Great Abolitionist"; Governor Oliver P. Morton was the most influential Union supporter behind Lincoln during the Civil War.
Learn more about Wayne County's History and Facts on WayNet.
Questions or problems?
Contact: webadmin@centerville.k12.in.us
or phone (765) 855-3475
1999-2004 © Centerville-Abington Community
Schools Centerville, Indiana USA All Rights Reserved
Last Revised: November 30, 2004