Downtown Evansville Live Cam
The most vibrant urban district in the region
History
Vanderburgh County is a county located in the southwestern corner of the state of Indiana, United States. It was established on January 7, 1818, and named after Colonel Henry Vanderburgh, a War of 1812 hero and territorial judge. The county seat and largest city is Evansville, which has played a significant role in the county's history and development.
Early History: The area that is now Vanderburgh County was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Shawnee, Miami, and Piankeshaw. European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century, establishing small farming communities along the Ohio River.
Establishment and Growth: Vanderburgh County was created by an act of the Indiana General Assembly in 1818, carving out territory from Gibson County. Evansville, originally known as McGary's Landing, was designated as the county seat due to its strategic location along the Ohio River. The town was officially platted in 1817 and quickly grew into a thriving commercial and industrial center.