Banks of the Wabash


What is Banks of the Wabash, Inc.?


Banks of the Wabash, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, enhancing and promoting the significant historical and natural resources of the Wabash River Corridor.
Banks of the Wabash, Inc. works to improve the quality of life for residents and enhance the visitor experiences for guests from outside the corridor. The organization's focus is the central section of the Wabash River Heritage Corridor, including portions of Carroll, Cass, Fountain, Parke, Tippecanoe, Vermillion, Vigo, and Warren counties in Indiana.



What makes the Wabash River

Heritage Corridor special?

The Wabash River Heritage Corridor is made up of rural, pastoral landscapes whichlook much the same today as they did a century ago, as well as vibrant urban areas with major colleges and universities. Several state-owned parks and historic sites are located within the corridor, as well as the largest single collection of historic covered bridges (in one county) in the United States. Art museums, festivals hiking trails, small, quaint towns and even an original Dentzel carousel are just a few of the attractions which can be experienced in communities throughout the region.

The corridor's rich history is rooted in the Native American tribes which were here for centuries. French explorers, and the American settlers who followed them, each left an indelible mark in the region's history. European immigrants found their way into the area along the Wabash and Erie Canal, the longest ever completed in the United States.

The canal and railroads brought tremendous economic growth to the Wabash River Valley, and that work ethic is still prevalent in the region. Today, recreational opportunities along the Wabash River and its tributaries are growing. Boat launch ramps can be found throughout the corridor, and parks and hiking trails have been constructed along the river fronts of some communities. For many years, On the Banks of the Wabash has been recognized as Indiana's state song. So important is the waterway that in 1996 the General Assembly declared the Wabash to be Indiana's state river.

Why was this organization formed?

This organization was formed so that citizens living in the Wabash River Heritage Corridor could voice their opinions and concerns about the corridor, and to provide a mechanism to help us work together to achieve common goals. With its non-profit status and citizen membership base, the Banks of the Wabash, Inc. can work with other organizations such as the Wabash River Heritage corridor Commission to make things happen, Banks of the Wabash, Inc. brings together a variety of individuals who are interested in conservation, historic preservations, economic development, community education and heritage tourism.

Why should I join the Banks of the Wabash, Inc.?

By becoming a member, you will help to support efforts to improve the quality of life for all residents in the corridor and help to enhance the visitor experience for visitors from outside the corridor. Your membership dues and volunteer time will help the organization to:

  • preserve the important historical, natural, and cultural resources of the area
  • support regional programs and events to raise an awareness of the Wabash River Heritage Corridor for residents and visitors alike
  • create an appreciation of the Wabash River as a recreational resource
  • support the improvement of communities in the corridor

    You will also receive these additional benefits of membership:

  • All members will receive a membership card and member updates of activities. All members will receive the L'Esprite de Ouabach Newsletter, a publication of the Wabash River Heritage Corridor Commission, as well as the Banks of the Wabash Newsletter.
  • Visionary/Corporate members will receive all member benefits listed above as well as an engraved plaque signifying support for Banks of the Wabash.

    Membership categories:

    Student: $5
    Individual: $15
    Family/Non-profit/Town: $25
    Business: $35
    Scout: $50
    Trailblazer: $100
    Discoverer: $250
    Visionary: $500

    Become a member online NOW

    or

    Print out our online brochure by clicking here and send it in with a check payable to:  

    Get Acrobat ReaderBanks of the Wabash, Inc.

    Please complete the online brochure and send it in with a check to:

    Banks Of the Wabash, Inc.
    PO Box 1253
    Lafayette, Indiana, 47902

    Questions?
    Call (765) 494-1330 or e-mail
    wabash@hort.purdue.edu

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