Celebrating Limestone Month – June 2023

Lawrence County proudly commemorates Limestone Month each June. Since the early 1800s, Lawrence County’s rich limestone quarrying and carving history has set this Indiana county apart. As a major supplier of quality limestone to the world, you’ll find Indiana Limestone structures in South America, Canada, England and of course, America. That is why we call ourselves Limestone Country.

Previous quarry at McCormick’s Creek.

Indiana Limestone is Unique

You may wonder what makes Indiana limestone so special. It is made primarily from calcium carbonate. This mineral was deposited over millions of years, as marine fossils decomposed at the bottom of a shallow inland sea, which covered most of this area during the Mississippian Period. Indiana limestone is nearly chemically pure, which means it’s about 97% calcium carbonate. As a result, it is particularly durable, low maintenance, affordable and has unmatched beauty.

Limestone is easily found in Lawrence County.

Where Limestone is Found

Limestone is found underground in the Stone Belt, a unique and limited area in Lawrence County and nearby Monroe County that is only 35 miles long and 10 miles wide. In this south-central part of Indiana, limestone is easily spotted along the highways and among nature. It is the reason for the gently rolling hills, rocky terrain, caves and caverns around the county.

Lawrence County Courthouse is constructed with limestone.

Famous Limestone Structures

Some of the most iconic American structures are made from Indiana limestone. The Empire State Building in New York, Chicago’s Tribune Tower, several federal buildings in Washington D.C. including the Pentagon, and the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials are constructed with it. Even recent building projects include Indiana Limestone, like the new Yankee stadium.

Skilled stone carver at work.

Join Our Celebration

Sat., June 3 Cave Day Celebration, Spring Mill State Park

Fri., Sat. & Sun., June 9, 10 & 11Civilian Conservation Corps 9th Anniversary, Spring Mill State Park

Wednesdays, June 14 & 28Green Hill Cemetery Tours. Register by calling (812) 849-1090.

Thursdays, June 15 & 223D Stone Tours. Pre-registration required. Call (812) 849-1090.

Fri., Sat., June 16 & 17 – Judah Heritage Festival

Sat., June 17 What Do Railroads Do? presentation at the Spring Mill State Park

Tuesday, June 20Tour Indiana Limestone, A Polycor Inc. Company. Ages 18+ only and closed toe shoes required. Call (812) 849-1090 to register.

Thursdays, June 22 & 29Limestone & Lemonade. June 22 – Otis Park in Bedford. June 29, – Shelter House in Mitchell. Pre-registration required.

Fri. & Sat., June 23 & 24 Limestone Carving Exhibit, Downtown Depot in Bedford

Fri. & Sat., June 23 & 24 Limestone Heritage Festival, Downtown Bedford. This is a huge event that includes pancake breakfast, carving, tours, food, beer garden, parade and live entertainment.

Fri., Sat. & Sun., June 23, 24 & 25Annual Gem-Mineral-Fossil Show, Lawrence County 4H Fairgrounds

Sat. & Sun., June 24 & 25 Limestone Weekend at Spring Mill State Park

Sat., June 24Limestone Volkswalk 10k/5k, Bedford

Tues., June 27Take a Stroll Through History, Episcopal Church – Bedford

While you are here to celebrate Limestone month, check out these dining options.

If you need a place to stay, we welcome you!

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