Eli Lilly and Conner Prairie Farm Associates

Lilly wanted to have the experience and challenges farming brought. He sought expert agricultural advice and insisted that his employees “work with the team spirit of an Indiana basketball aggregation.” His farm animals won ribbons, but the farm never turned a profit, so eventually he embarked on a different course that would provide for the future of the property as a historic site.Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce.Destination Indiana - Conner Prairie Interactive History Park Journe

Map of Early Indiana Showing Conner Trading Post

As the government removed the Delaware Indians west across the Mississippi River, Conner shifted his attention to land speculation, agriculture and mercantile trade with white newcomers. In 1820 he abandoned his Delaware wife and married a newly arrived white woman. In late 1823 Conner built a large two-story brick home, one of the first brick houses in central Indiana. Set on 1,000 acres along White River, his farm became the first seat of government in Hamilton County. The inset shows Delaware towns along the White River, circa 1800.Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce.Destination Indiana - Conner Prairie Interactive History Park Journe

Hearthside Supper in the Conner House

Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce.Destination Indiana - Conner Prairie Interactive History Park Journe

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

Today, Conner Prairie is an independent "Interactive History Park." Guests discover what it was like to live and play in Indiana’s past. The museum grounds are divided into different eras in history: 1836 Prairietown, Lenape (Delaware Indian) Camp, and an 1863 Civil War Journey. In 2009 an 1859 Balloon Voyage was added. From April to October, themed activities and programming are offered. Every visit is a unique adventure giving an authentic look into history.Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce.Destination Indiana - Conner Prairie Interactive History Park Journe

Civil War Journey at Conner Prairie Interactive History Park

Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce

Balloon Voyage at Conner Prairie

Today, Conner Prairie is an independent "Interactive History Park." Guests discover what it was like to live and play in Indiana’s past. The museum grounds are divided into different eras in history: 1836 Prairietown, Lenape (Delaware Indian) Camp, and an 1863 Civil War Journey. In 2009 an 1859 Balloon Voyage was added. From April to October, themed activities and programming are offered. Every visit is a unique adventure giving an authentic look into history.Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce

Conner House Before and After Restoration

In 1934 Eli Lilly, Indianapolis businessman, president of the Indiana Historical Society, and longtime friend of Indiana history, purchased the house and about 400 acres of farmland. This allowed him to combine his historical pursuits with his interest in farming. He set out immediately to preserve and restore the house. Historic preservation was in its infancy during the 1930s; Lilly did all he could to familiarize himself with aims, objectives and techniques of the work.Use of this image is restricted to projects related to Destination Indiana. IHS may not reproduce.Destination Indiana - Conner Prairie Interactive History Park Journe