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

HowellSlabJacking Lifting Settled Concrete

If your concrete is sinking, there’s a good possibility that it can be lifted for a fraction of the cost of replacement. SlabJacking is the process of lifting a driveway, patio, walkway or any other section of concrete by pumping material underneath.

2020 Covered Bridges Calendar! ***NEW***

PARKE COUNTY'S COVERED BRIDGES 2020 CALENDAR

Beauty Built To Last...For GENERATIONS

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2019-2020 Parke County Guide™ Magazine

Download the 2019-2020 Parke County Guide™

(2019-2020 Available for Download HERE)

MANSFIELD VILLAGE — GPS MAP Directions

We've had requests for GPS mappable addresses for those planning to visit Mansfield Village during the Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. Many Mansfield locations actually display as "Carbon" or "Rockville" addresses, although mansfield is about ten miles southeast of Rockville (as the crow flies). If your GPS won't accept "Mansfield Indiana" as a destination, try one of the following addresses. These should get you within a few blocks of the Mansfield Covered Bridge. These addresses also work within Google Maps. Click HERE to find Fox's Overlook in Mansfield Village. Click "Continue reading" for Addresses.

2019-20 Parke County Festivals and Events

OCTOBER 2019

1 - 2

Model T Covered Bridge Tour (Countywide)

11 - 20

Parke County Covered Bridge Festival (Countywide)

13 - 22

2019 Covered Bridge Festival in Mansfield

Mansfield Village Celebrates The

Covered Bridge Festival

October 11-20 2019
8 am - 5 pm Daily

The Mansfield Village celebration of the Covered Bridge Festival is unlike anywhere else in the county. As hundreds of thousands of visitors gather in October every year in

Parke County, Indiana, the Mansfield Covered Bridge stands out as one of the most visited. Built in 1867, this bridge is 247 feet long and was built by J. J. Daniels to cross Big Raccoon Creek. It is an icon that continues to remind us of a simpler time.

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.

Welcome to Northern Parke County (MAP)

We invite you to come experience Northern Parke County where you can walk wooded wonderlands of virgin forests, marvel over magnificent sandstone ravines, descend canyons of untouched geological formations and experience a piece of Indiana that time has carefully molded and that has been left virtually untouched by the modern world.

Festival Activities at Montezuma, Indiana

Covered Bridge Festival Activities at Montezuma, Indiana

October 12 through October 21, 2018*

*See 2019-2020 Parke County Guide for 2019 Dates & Times.

Sugar Valley Spirits

Sugar Valley Spirits founder, Colten Lambermont, has a passion and palate for Caribbean style rum that began on remote islands of the Florida Keys, while searching for fish, lost treasure, and the perfect sunset. His dream is to bottle that feeling and share it with his friends and family back home in Indiana.

Up The Creek Boat-tiqué

Steer your course to Up the Creek Boat-ique and be delighted at the unique decor, great food and, best of all, an attitude from a different latitude! Up the Creek has evolved to a restaurant well known for its great and varied menu. Owned by the Lambermont family, who fell in love with Bahia Honda State Park in the Lower Keys, you will get a taste of the “key life” in this business themed around Latitude 24! Treasures from their stays there decorate this unique restaurant.

The Peaceful Waters Campground and the Old Goat Trading Post in Bloomingdale

After a full day of covered bridge shopping, Peaceful Waters Campground offers a relaxing way to unwind. Whether you like boating, fishing, or just enjoying fellowship time around a crackling fire watching the sky fill with stars, this campground offers it all.

Turkey Hill Farm Antiques & Uniques

By Sharon Clark Earl, Freelance Writer

I didn’t know my grandmothers, but I like to think they would have lived in a home just like Karen and John Stutler’s Turkey Hill Farm Antiques and Uniques. Located down a gravel lane surrounded by fields, 1⁄4 mile south off US 47 on Marshall Road, this gem is easy to find.

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 (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)

Welcome to Southern Parke County, the home of fun and festivals! — there’s one for every season from Mushroom time to Christmastime. Come see this region decked out in the delicate blooms of redbud and dogwood in the spring, the vivid greens of summer, the vibrant hues the fall brings or in the soft, pristine snow cover of winter.

Collom’s General Store in Bridgeton

Dan and Kathy Collom, as the owners of Collom’s General Store in Bridgeton, Indiana, would like to invite you to stop in and visit.

In October of 2006, they purchased the building formerly known as “The Parke Place.” After completely remodeling the building with new wood siding on the interior walls and a burlap ceiling, the Collom’s General Store opened in March of 2007.

Rosedale Strawberry Festival - June 7-9

Rosedale’s Strawberry Festival takes place the first full weekend in June and it claims the title as home to the best homemade shortcakes in Indiana! This family oriented three day festival is shock full of fun, good food, games, shopping, activities for old and young alike and, of course, it is full of strawberries! We are known for delectable homemade strawberry shortcake with heaps of strawberries and ice cream and real whipped cream that melts in your mouth. It’s a summertime treat you won’t want to miss.

Historic Bridgeton 1878 House & Barn

There’s nothing more romantic than a wedding. It’s the perfect time of your life to express yourselves, personally and as a new couple, while welcoming family and friends to the ultimate celebration! Make your wedding unforgettable with the rustic elegance and lasting impression of a beautiful barn wedding in a country setting at the Bridgeton 1878 Barn.

The Bridgeton Mill - Over 200 Years Ago

On October 12, 1818, O’Neil and Wasson purchased 200 acres along the Big Raccoon Creek in what would later become Bridgeton in Parke county Indiana to build a water powered mill. The first mill was a corn cracker on the creek bank. Later a log building was built in 1823 for sawing wood. Because of fires and improvements there have been four buildings. The fourth building, built in 1870, is still standing and operating today. It is owned by Mike and Karen Roe. They are the fourteenth owners and continue the milling tradition with the help of their family.

Ditzler Orchard - Rosedale Indiana

Ditzler Orchard has been family owned and operated since 1970. Here you can pick your own stawberries, cherries, blueberries and apples in season. Rather not pick them yourself? Then come shop our market! We’re open daily May through December, so stop in to see us!

Ski’s Truck & RV Sales at Rockville

Tour Parke County in style in a cool diesel truck or beautiful new RV from Ski’s Truck & RV Sales. Located just three miles east of Raccoon Lake, Ski’s Truck & RV Sales has a wide selection of pre-owned vehicles for sale, including 4x4 trucks, SUVs, vans and cars, in just about every price range.

The Happy Camper Market & Grill

Visit us at The Happy Camper Market & Grill... up on the hill for delicious food! You can call ahead, dine in or carry out. Beer and wine are also available. Book a party and let us do the work. Order brisket or pulled pork by the pound, add sides and pick it all up on your way home.

The Red Raccoon - Unique Retail Store

The Red Raccoon is a unique, one of a kind retail store located on US HWY 36 just east of Raccoon Lake SRA in Bellmore, Indiana. Our 3,500 square foot location allows for an array of products featuring boutique clothing, home décor, gardening and even landscaping items. Mike and Jamie Baird along with their children, Jennafer, Jessica, and Billy opened The Red Raccoon on April 1, 2014. Throughout the year you can find unique must have décor and garden items to make your house a home.

Mill Creek Honey Farms - Rockville

One “sweet” stop in Parke County is Mill Creek Honey Farms where you can buy raw Indiana honey at their self-serve stand just a couple miles East of Raccoon State Park on US 36. People world-wide know the health benefits and luscious taste of the product of the tiny honey bee. Honey was even known in Greek mythology to have the ability to achieve immortality to those who ate this golden delight. Today honey is used for all sorts of purposes from a cough suppressant to a natural sweetener. It is said it is “the one thing that can do everything.”

Mansfield Roller Mill at Mansfield Village

Since 1819, the Mansfield Roller Mill has graced the banks of Big Raccoon Creek in the village that would become Mansfield, Indiana. The Mill was built of logs and used glacial stones quarried nearby to grind corn and wheat.

13th Annual Miami Indian Gathering

The 13th Annual Miami Indian Gathering (powwow) will be held June 1st & 2nd, 2019.

The Gathering is located at 11515 East U.S. 36 Parke County, Indiana, just three miles east of Raccoon Lake. Known for its naturally beautiful pastoral landscapes, lakes, and rivers; Parke County is the ideal location to celebrate our place in the natural world.

Raccoon Lakeside Lodge Open Year-Round

Need a fishing get-away? A vacation? A peaceful hideaway? You’ll find Raccoon Lakeside Lodge in Parke County a relaxing place with lakeside furnished apartments and suites, a fishing dock, water-skiing, hiking, Jacuzzis, swimming, beaching, grilling, porch swinging and more!

Just imagine sitting outside and enjoying the patio, grilling a meal or having a picnic on the deck. Relax in a porch swing and enjoy the lakeside view. All the lodges’ housing units are situated within close proximity to a 20 X 40 outdoor pool or enjoy the 200 ft. sea wall deck at the lake front where you’ll find a very popular fishing pier. Ten floating docks are available as well as rental deck pontoon boats.