PARKE COUNTY GUIDE - Parke County COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL - VISITORS GUIDE - Rockville Indiana

Mansfield Village Beans & Cornbread Day

Last Blast of 2019 Summer Along the Banks of Big Raccoon Creek

Mansfield Village Beans & Cornbread Day

September 7, 2019

 The early autumn breezes along Big Raccoon Creek set the stage for this annual event full of family fun. Bring the whole family out to skip a stone over the creek, stroll the bridge or browse through the treasures at in Mansfield Village.

Clements Canoes Outdoor Center

During the Wisconsinan glaciation period, glaciers were sitting right on Central Indiana. With the melting of the glaciers, very unique topography was created including large hills and sandstone bluffs. In the 1800’s settlers started their journey West. With this movement, towns and mills were created along what is now known as Sugar Creek.

Swarey’s Variety Store in Marshall Indiana

Among the backroads of beautiful Parke County you will spot a horse-drawn buggy or two and an Amish shop every now and then. One shop you especially won’t want to miss is sitting among a pristine farm and beautiful gardens in rural Marshall, Indiana called Swarey’s Variety Store.

Inside you’ll find all sorts of goodies from handcrafted clocks to fine china to Rada cutlery, to a large selection of craft and stamp supplies, to educational toys and books galore, including Amish cook books with those especially delicious recipes shared to delight your taste buds! You will also find hand sewn baby clothes, hand-made rugs and doilies, an array of locally hand crafted woodwork and much more!

Bloomin’ Barn Antiques North of Rockville

Just six miles North of Rockville, Indiana in Parke County, you will find the Bloomin’ Barn tucked away in wooded seclusion. You will notice the uniqueness of the Barn as you approach it down the winding lane just off US 41.

On your visit to the Barn you will meet the owner Greg Bryant. Greg has been in the antique business since 1969. He opened his first shop behind his parents house in Bloomingdale. This is how the name Bloomin’ Barn originated.

Pearson Sports in Marshall Indiana

The Parke County area’s abundant wildlife makes it a popular spot for sportsmen of all types for fishing, deer and turkey hunting. Duane Pearson, a native of Marshall and graduate of Turkey Run High School is the owner of Pearson Sports.

He’s owned his shop for thirty-four years. Pearson Sports began in 1985 and in 1995 he moved to a new spacious location. Pearson Sports offers a full line of firearms, ammunition and accessories, including black powder, muzzle loader items, reloading supplies and bait and tackle. You can also purchase hunting and fishing licenses at the store

Under The Arch Restaurant in Marshall

Located in historic Marshall, Indiana, home of the Marshall Arch, a family set out to transform a former Massey Harris tractor implement store, The Marshall Hardware and later a print shop into their dream of a family restaurant. The building has been remodeled and a state of the art kitchen was added. Much of the original building was kept as was. Throughout the dining room hanging above the black, red and white gingham checked tables are lights made from maple syrup buckets and old mason jars. These were all made by owner Marc Myers. Handmade booths are located on one side of the restaurant to give that cozy feeling.

The Marshall Arch - Built in 1921

The Marshall Arch is the first work of Carroll O. Beeson, who, in the 55 years to follow, would be responsible for over 300 architectural projects in west central Indiana. The arch was constructed as a result of the local businessmen challenging the young architectural student to design something to enhance the town’s appearance.

Construction of the arch started in the summer of 1921. The dedication service was held on September 30, 1921, and the Marshall community gathered to pay tribute to its servicemen, and to appreciate the first project of Carroll O. Beeson.

Wilkins Mill Guesthouse in Bloomingdale

Hilltop House at Wilkins Mill Guesthouse in Bloomingdale

For a perfect getaway in Covered Bridge Country, Wilkins Mill Guesthouse is the answer! The Main Cabin at Wilkins Mill was built in 1828 and also included a livery stable and post office at the then thriving community. In 1853 George Wilkins purchased the mill and operated it until the 1900’s. Today, Wilkins Mill has something for everyone.

Welcome to Central Parke County

Ready for a leisurely getaway? We invite you to come and spend some time in Central Parke County. You can tour covered bridges, stroll around quaint town squares, visit an art gallery, wonderful meals, delicious wines and inviting inns.

2018 Featured Artist - Barbara Flock

2018 Featured Artist: Co-Founding Member Barbara Flock by Catherine Thompson, daughter, September 2018.

Barbara Flock (1931-1999) was a lifelong resident of Parke County and one of the founding members of the Covered Bridge Art Association (CBAA) established in 1965 with co-founders Louise Michael, Delores Collings. Lois Sciotto and Sue Dooley. Barbara’s art career began as a student at Herron School of Art in Indianapolis. While there, she worked as a graphic fashion artist for LS Ayres, Co.

Covered Bridge Campground at Rockville

Brian Williams owns and operates the Covered Bridge Campground. He has 73 sites, a shower house and public restroom.

Come join us for some fun during the festival or just for a family friendly weekend!

You can view our pictures on Facebook or at www.coveredbridgecampground.com