Dr. James Ford is renowned in Wabash, Indiana, for his multifaceted contributions as a 19th-century physician, Civil War surgeon, inventor, pharmacist, writer, and community leader. In 1841, he and his wife, America, constructed a modest one-room brick home at 177 West Hill Street, which expanded over the decades into a 4,000-square-foot residence by the 1870s. This home now serves as the Dr. James Ford Historic Home museum, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century family life, medical practices, and period architecture.
Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Ford was a charter trustee of North Western Christian University (later Butler University) in Indianapolis, reflecting his commitment to education and civic engagement.
Wabash, Indiana, boasts a rich historical tapestry. Originally platted in 1834 on land ceded by the Potawatomi and Miami tribes in the 1826 Treaty of Paradise Spring, the city gained prominence with the arrival of the Wabash and Erie Canal in the 1830s, spurring growth and development. Notably, Wabash claims the distinction of being one of the first electrically lighted cities in the world, with the courthouse grounds illuminated on March 31, 1880.
The city's historical landmarks include the Paradise Spring Treaty Grounds, the Wabash County Historical Museum, and the East Wabash Historic District, which features architectural styles ranging from Federal to Queen Anne.
For those interested in delving deeper into Wabash's history, resources such as the Wabash County Historical Museum and publications like "A Brief Centennial History of Wabash County, 1835–1935" provide extensive insights into the area's past.
Learn more about our Wabash team at www.wabashindentist.com
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