Another Limestone Month has come and gone, and we have been very proud to celebrate the Indiana native stone and what its history means for our county. Lawrence County’s rich limestone quarrying and carving history began in the early 1800s. Since then, the county has been known as “Limestone Country.”
Limestone is found underground in the Stone Belt, a unique area in Lawrence County and nearby Monroe County that is only 35 miles long and 10 miles wide. It gives the area it’s rolling hills and has been transformed into stunning buildings and statues. There are lots of ways to see, touch and learn about the stone that built our community.
Fun Fact: Many of America’s famous buildings were built of stone quarried from Limestone Country, including the Empire State Building, Chicago’s Tribune Tower, the Pentagon and the new Yankee Stadium.
There are many ways that you can celebrate and honor Lawrence County’s limestone history! Discover natural limestone throughout Lawrence County by exploring these hot spots:
Bluespring Caverns
Tucked away in a peaceful part of Lawrence County is the entrance to one of the longest cave systems in Indiana. Bluespring Caverns is a true hidden gem, filled with natural limestone. Currently, 22 miles of the caves have been surveyed and mapped out by experts.
At a cool 53 degrees year-round and 100 feet below the surface of the earth, Bluespring Caverns is an unexpected underground treasure. Visitors will enjoy exploring the underground river and observing the natural limestone that lives beneath Lawrence County.
Spring Mill State Park
Spring Mill State Park is a local favorite in Limestone Country, especially when it comes to searching for limestone. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the numerous trails in the park, ranging in difficulty from easy to rugged. Park goers will discover the natural limestone that is spread throughout the grounds. Here you will see impressive walls of unmined, natural limestone that you can touch and possibly even take a piece home for safe keeping!
In addition to the trails, visitors to the park will enjoy Spring Mill’s unique facilities, including a memorial to Hoosier astronaut Virgil I. ‘Gus’ Grissom and the Pioneer Village with its working Grist Mill.
Milwaukee Trail
Another popular spot for discovering natural limestone in Lawrence County is on the Milwaukee Trail. Enjoy walking, running or bicycling with friends along the 11-mile crushed limestone path.
You will see beautiful sights of the White River and old railroad bridges, as well as stacked limestone located along the trail! The Milwaukee Trail offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for hikers of all skill levels.
If you do happen to discover limestone in Lawrence County, be sure to share your images on Facebook and tag us @LimestoneCountry. To learn more about our limestone history, click here.
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