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

Welcome to Central Parke County (MAP)

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.

2019 Featured Artist: Malcolm Moore

The Covered Bridge Art Association conducts a raffle of art from various member artists each year to help fund an art scholarship for graduating local high school art students in Parke County. This year they have chosen a remarkable piece of photography printed on canvas. The piece is of lilacs in a vase against a pleasing background. Patrons have marveled at how so painterly the piece appears. It is hard to believe it is a photograph!

Covered Bridge Campground in 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 their pictures on Facebook or at www. coveredbridgecampground.com

2020 Parke County Maple Fair Festival

February 29 & March 1, 2020 • March 7 & 8, 2020

(County Wide)

Headquarters at the
Parke County 4-H Fairgrounds

• Visit Maple Syrup Camps

• Tour our 31 Covered Bridges

• Dine on Sausage & Pancakes

• Browse through Unique Shops

• Stay in a local Inn, Motel or Bed & Breakfast

Call 765-569-5226 For Maple Fair Festival Information

Old Jail Inn & Drunk Tank Winery

The Old Jail Inn Parke County started in 2009, with the purchase of an 1879 flat steel, riveted door and frame in the basement of the abandoned jail. The door leads to the original Drunk Tank. The jail was transformed by Debra Olson in four months. It was a labor of love once she conceived the idea. The old jail is a destination getaway, with nine private cells turned into suites and guest rooms.

Roll On Into Wheel House Donuts

Welcome to the Wheel House, home of custommade cake donuts! You pick the icing and the toppings, and we custom-make the donut just the way you want it.

Located in the heart of Covered Bridge country, what was once a home is now a charmingly renovated coffee shop, family-owned and operated.

Rockville's Oldest! Amoré Pizza King

Amoré Pizza King, Rockville’s oldest restaurant still in business, has been feeding Parke County residents and visitors delicious, special recipe Italian cuisine and pizza since 1972. You will find classic thin crust pizza prepared on cornmeal and baked in a slate oven with more toppings per square inch than other pizzas around.

Find Treasures at Antiques On York

You will find Antiques on York a great place to take some time off from hiking Turkey Run State Park trails, or fighting the crowds during Covered Bridge Festival time. You just might end up finding a few vintage or antique treasures to take home. This corner shop located behind the Thirty Six Saloon in downtown Rockville has a wide variety of small furniture, ceramics, jewelry, dish and glass ware, antiques, primitives, re-purposed items, signage, and much more all located in its one-level, 4500 square foot mall at 100 West York Street. Inventory changes constantly so you never know just what treasures you will find! Check them out on Facebook and on the web.

Food, Shopping & Music at Solomon’s Porch

Entertainment, shopping and savory food—all in one spot— it is now available right off the square in downtown Rockville. Solomon’s Porch, located in the former Lover’s Lane building, is now offering a cafe with sandwiches, locally sourced cookies from certified kitchens and drinks for the tired and hungry shopper. Many new items have been added to the store with more coming in daily. You will find a new ladies’ boutique, items made locally including jewelry, dish towels, art work, candles, and so much more!

Monarch Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Owning a Bed and Breakfast had always been a dream of Janet Miller for as long as she can remember. Just months ago she brought that dream to her husband, Thomas who thought it was a great idea. While deciding on a name, 6 - 8 monarch butterflies fluttered around her on the deck of their home and thus the Monarch Bed and Breakfast was born!

Urban Farmchic in Downtown Rockville

Located at 102 South Market Street in downtown Rockville, Urban Farmchic offers a distinctive shopping experience. The design talents of Rachel Engel, a licensed designer, are highlighted throughout the county meets urban style shop. The shop features an awe-inspiring collection of vintage, salvage, handmades, and boutique clothing.

Neva’s Antiques & Collectibles in Rockville

If you are looking for something from the past, an unusual item of the modern day or an antique of unique style--the place to look is Neva’s Store on the north side of the square in Rockville. It’s the most complete compilation of eclectic wares around. From locally hand-crafted pottery, jewelry, clothing and needlework to handcrafted furniture in primitive, country and the fabulously popular shabby chic styles to antiques and collectibles and more, you will find the most distinct collection at Neva’s located at 120 W Ohio Street, on the north side of the square in Rockville.

Country Home Furniture & Crafts

There’s a new store in town that you won’t want to miss. Country Home Furniture & Crafts opened its doors in September just in time for the Covered Bridge Festival!

This Amish business, owned by Nathan and Mary Ditweiler, offers a wide selection of Amishmade, hand-crafted solid wood furniture, used furniture, crafts, soy candles and gifts.

Bubble Gum Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Indulge in the Elegance and grace of this 1909 historic victorian bed and breakfast. It sits on the edge of downtown Rockville, in the heart of covered bridge country. In August of 2007 this bed and breakfast began with the rooms Hope, Faith and Love with fluffy queen beds, TV with free WIFI in every room and a large shared bath with all essentials provided.

Welcome to Central Parke County (MAP)

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

Timeless ‘n Classic Antique Mall, Rockville

Jill and Bill Dixon are the quintessential fun loving, friendly, knowledgeable and downright folksy owners of Parke County’s largest antique venue. The couple have been collecting antiques and vintage items since the early days of their marriage. Jill has been a lifelong Covered Bridge Festival crafter along with her mother, Millie Warnick, an early member of the Covered Bridge Art Gallery who was instrumental in bringing the Mansfield area into the festival mode.

Why Are Covered Bridges Covered?

Here are the Answers to Your Covered Bridge Questions

by Kelsey Canfield

Q: Why are covered bridges covered?

A: The roofs were placed on the bridges simply to keep them protected.

With the main support system of the bridges being inside, it is of the greatest importance to keep the beams clear of rain, snow and even sun.

The harshness of Indiana’s climate would leave the bridge rotten from the rain and snow, and weathered from the sun. Not the greatest combination if you need to use this bridge to travel from place to place.

Q: Why does the bridge say “Cross this bridge at a walk”?

A: Early cars had a gear called ‘walk’…..nah. Just kidding! When bridges began to be built, there were no automobiles. Their primary form of transportation was by horse or a horse drawn carriage. Bridges, like many structures, have a natural frequency of vibration. A force that’s applied to an object at the same frequency as the object’s natural frequency will radiate and amplify the vibration of the object. This is called a mechanical resonance. If a horse walks across the structure, they apply a force at the frequency of their step. If their frequency is closely matched to the bridge’s frequency, the horse’s rhythmed step will amplify the vibrational frequency of the bridge. If the mechanical resonance is strong enough, the bridge can vibrate until it collapses from the movement. So, long story short...if you are planning on taking your horse drawn carriage through a covered bridge on a romantic date, take it slow through the bridge - at a walk. As for traveling in your car, take it slow. No need to peel out and blaze through the bridge in fear of the bridge collapsing.

Q: Why are there so many bridges in Parke County?

A: Parke County has a large number of creeks and streams wandering through the landscape. Hence the building of bridges to cross said streams. With an abundance of trees in our area, bridge builders harvested these ancient trees to create the lumber necessary to build these covered bridges. The county was dotted with bridges over every stream and in multiple points of each stream. As the years passed, many still stood. Others were replaced due to flooding, and some were never rebuilt. Then came a time in the early 1900’s that more modern bridges were replacing the older wooded covered bridges. Steel and concrete paved the way to more sound and reliable bridge options.

While others replaced their covered bridges, Parke County continued to just maintain what we had - in part due to the cost of the upgrades. We may have been poor-but we are rich in history!

Eagles in Flight Weekend at Turkey Run

Join us January 25th-27th, 2019 at Turkey Run State Park where the Eagles in Flight Weekend will occur at both the Inn and Nature Center. Discover nests, an overnight roost & hunting grounds as we explore the habitats of bald eagles. Enjoy live eagle, hawk, and owl programs!

Old Jail Inn & Drunk Tank Winery

The Old Jail Inn Parke County started in 2009, with the purchase of an 1879 flat steel, riveted door and frame in the basement of the abandoned jail. The door leads to the original Drunk Tank. The jail was transformed by Debra Olson in four months. It was a labor of love once the idea was conceived.

Neva’s Antiques & Collectibles in Rockville

If you are looking for something from the past, an unusual item of the modern day or an antique of unique style--the place to look is Neva’s Store on the north side of the square in Rockville. It’s the most complete compilation of eclectic wares around.

Heirloom Traders Association

Whatcha Got? Is it antique, vintage, or collectible? Antique - 100+ year old items; Vintage - items ranging from 40 to 99 years old; Collectible - anything one decides to collect (age doesn’t matter).

As Parke County’s Covered Bridge Capital has grown from only a few antique shops to more than a dozen, a collective group of shops and vendors has emerged to decipher “whatcha got?”. Formed in the winter of 2016, they are the Heirloom Traders Association (HTA).

Roll On In - Wheel House Donuts

Welcome to the Wheel House, home of custommade cake donuts! You pick the icing and the toppings, and we custom-make the donut just the way you want it.

Red Brick Inn - Rockville Historical District

Located in the historical district of Rockville, the Red Brick Inn is a spacious Bed and Breakfast. You will find quaint, comfy rooms, each personally decorated. Near Turkey Run State Park Raccoon State Recreation Area and Raccoon Lake with several covered bridges nearby. We are just two blocks from historical downtown Rockville. The Red Brick Inn is a perfect spot to stay. Wether you want a comfy get away or have a big group getting together, you can rent a room or the entire house!

New to Rockville - Solomon’s Porch

Entertainment, shopping and savory food—all in one spot— it is now available right off the square in downtown Rockville. Solomon’s Porch, located in the former Lover’s Lane building, is now offering a cafe with sandwiches, locally sourced cookies from certified kitchens and drinks for the tired and hungry shopper. Many new items have been added to the store with more coming in daily. You will find a new ladies’ boutique, items made locally including jewelry, dish towels, art work, candles, and so much more!

Midwest Window Co. in Rockville Indiana

Along the Parke County byways and highways you will find numerous wonderful Amish businesses. One of those is Midwest Windows located right off of Highway 36 just west of the SR 59 and SR 36 Junction. Dave Kanagy, owner of Midwest Windows, has been in business for 20 years, after first locating and establishing his business in Ferndale, Indiana. He then moved to the huge location right off of Highway 36.

Country Meets Urban at Urban Farmchic

Located at 4220 W Hwy 36, 4.3 miles west of downtown Rockville, Urban Farmchic offers a distinctive shopping experience. The design talents of Rachel Engel, a licensed designer, are highlighted throughout the “country meets urban” style shop. The shop features an awe-inspiring collection of vintage, salvage, handmades, and boutique clothing.

Bubble Gum Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Indulge in the Elegance and grace of this 1909 historic victorian bed and breakfast. It sits on the edge of downtown Rockville in the heart of covered bridge country. In August of 2007 this bed and breakfast began with the rooms Hope, Faith and Love with fluffy queen beds, TV with free WIFI in every room and a large shared bath with all essentials provided.

The Flour Basket Bakery Café in Rockville

Home of the patented and trade marked Fluff Muff, you will find everything homemade at The Flour Basket Bakery & Cafe in downtown Rockville. Owner Hollie Wyatt was tired of the dense, dry cake donuts and bland muffins so she created her own luscious treat called the fluff muff—round like a donut but light, airy and full of flavor! This 4,800 sq. foot building is full of shopping opportunities, good fun and great food! There are four themed dining rooms, The Parke County room; Game Room; The Tea for Two for the romantics; and the Gangster Room for private seating.

Rustic Owl Primitives in Rockville Indiana

You will be amazed when you walk into this quaint house called Rustic Owl Primitives. Each room offers unique primitives, vintage items, gifts, home décor and locally made items at an affordable price. Owner Stacey Paddock says “Decorating your home should be fun and inexpensive”. The Rustic Owl opened at 207 North Jefferson Street in 2013. Ever since The Rustic Owl has been warming hearts and homes through beautiful, one of a kind decor.

Welcome to Southern Parke County [MAP]

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. Or spend some time at a campground and enjoy the natural beauty that is Central Parke County. Antique by day and relax by night. With all Central Parke County offers, we know you’ll want to stay for a while!

Rockville: More Than Just Our County Seat

The quaint, small town of Rockville is the place to be all four seasons of the year. Come visit us and find yourself renewed, refreshed, and revitalized no matter the time of the year. Our “neck of the woods” is flourishing largely due to the efforts of MainStreet Rockville. You will find our town square alive and very well, offering so much for our residents and visitors.

2017 Featured Artist: Peggy Underwood

“Mansfield Mill in Winter” by Peggy Underwood

This year the Covered Bridge Art Association is raffling off an oil painting by artist Peggy Underwood for this years scholarship fundraiser. The work “Mansfield Mill in Winter” is a beautiful work that captures the beauty of winter at the mill after a fresh blanket of snow falls.

Covered Bridge Campground in Rockville

Covered Bridge Campground

Brian Williams, Amanda and David Gregg own and operate the Covered Bridge Campground. We have 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.

Timeless ‘n Classic Antique Mall, Rockville

Jill and Bill Dixon

Jill and Bill Dixon are the quintessential fun loving, friendly, knowledgeable and downright folksy owners of Parke County’s largest antique venue. The couple have been collecting antiques and vintage items since the early days of their marriage. Jill has been a lifelong Covered Bridge Festival crafter along with her mother, Millie Warnick, an early member of the Covered Bridge Art Gallery who was instrumental in bringing the Mansfield area into the festival mode.

Old Jail Inn and the Drunk Tank Winery

The Old Jail Inn Parke County started in 2009, with the purchase of an 1879 flat steel, riveted door and frame in the basement of the abandoned jail. The door lead to the original Drunk Tank. The jail was transformed by Debra Olson in four months. It was a labor of love once the idea was conceived. The old jail is a destination getaway, with nine private cells turned into suites and guest rooms.

Neva’s Antiques & Collectibles in Rockville

If you are looking for something from the past, an unusual item of the modern day or an antique of unique style--the place to look is Neva’s Store on the north side of the square in Rockville. It’s the most complete compilation of eclectic wares around.

Heirloom Traders Association — (HTA)

Whatcha Got? Is it antique, vintage, or collectible? Antique - 100+ year old items; Vintage - items ranging from 40 to 99 years old; Collectible - anything one decides to collect (age doesn’t matter).

As Parke County’s Covered Bridge Capital has grown from only a few antique shops to more than a dozen, a collective group of shops and vendors has emerged to decipher “whatcha got?”. Formed in the winter of 2016, they are the Heirloom Traders Association (HTA).

Twilight Dairy Just West of Rockville

Twilight Dairy is the home of a small herd of contented, grass-fed cows who produce the rich raw milk we use to process our yogurt and cheese.

The cows are milked twice daily and that fresh from the cow milk is the base of the tasty cheese and yogurt that we process here on the farm.

Roll on in for Wheel House Donuts

Craig Waugh and Valerie Vezey grew up in small-town Canada. Desperate to get away from the cold, they moved to Indiana twenty years ago. Recently retired and with a son still in high school in Carmel, Ind, they entered into a new partnership resulting in Wheel House Donuts.

Roots Market at Covered Bridge Festival

An event within an event is coming to The Parke County Covered Bridge Festival this year!

Roots Market is making its debut this season during the first weekend of the festival at Beechwood Park one block south of the intersection of Routes 36 & 41.

The Yellow Umbrella, Downtown Rockville

The Yellow Umbrella, on the East side of the Square in Rockville, invites you in for a hand-crafted espresso drink and fresh-made breakfast and lunch. Friday and Saturday nights stop in for a multicourse dinner prepared by two trained chefs. Owners, Sarah and Brandon Blake have called Rockville home since 2013 and have been together as a couple for 14 years. They both graduated from culinary art school in 2015 as certified chefs and made one of their dreams come true by recently purchasing the former Jailhouse Cafe and making it their own restaurant. They offer free delivery in town. There is also out-of-town delivery for a small fee.

Country Meets Urban at Urban Farmchic

Located 4.3 miles west of downtown Rockville, IN, Urban Farmchic, located at 4220 W Hwy 36 offers a distinctive shopping experience. The design talents of Rachel Engel, a licensed designer, are highlighted throughout the “country meets urban” style shop. The shop features an awe-inspiring collection of vintage, salvage, handmades, and boutique clothing.

Bubble Gum Bed & Breakfast in Rockville

Indulge in the Elegance and grace of this 1909 historic victorian bed and breakfast. It sits on the edge of downtown Rockville in the heart of covered bridge country. In August of 2007 this bed and breakfast began with the rooms Hope, Faith and Love with fluffy queen beds, TV with free WIFI in every room and a large shared bath with all essentials provided.