Ladd Dental Group

 At LADD Dental Group,  we are always inspired by the stories of Indiana innovators who helped shape their communities through vision, persistence, and craftsmanship. One of the most fascinating examples comes from Rush County, Indiana: the invention of the J.D. Adams Leaning Wheel Grader. While it may seem unusual to connect road construction equipment to dentistry , the deeper story behind the J.D. Adams Company carries powerful lessons about innovation, operational excellence, leadership, and long-term community investment that still apply today. The Innovation That Changed Road Construction The J.D. Adams Company was founded in Rushville, Indiana by Jonathan Dixon Adams in the late 1800s. The company became nationally known for developing the “leaning wheel grader,” a major advancement in road construction technology.  Before this invention, maintaining and grading roads was far more labor intensive and less efficient. Adams’ design allowed operators to angle and stab...

 When you think of Rushville, Indiana, you might picture a tight-knit community, rich farmland, and a strong sense of Hoosier pride. But what many may not realize is that this small town is also the birthplace of one of the most influential political figures of the 20th century—Wendell Willkie. From Rushville to the National Stage Born in 1892 in Rushville, Wendell Willkie grew up in a family deeply rooted in law, public service, and civic engagement. His early years in this small Indiana town helped shape his character—instilling in him the values of hard work, independent thinking, and a deep respect for democracy. Willkie went on to attend Indiana University, eventually becoming a successful lawyer and corporate executive. But it was his unexpected rise in politics that would make history. The 1940 Presidential Election In 1940, Wendell Willkie became the Republican nominee for President of the United States—despite never having held public office. His nomination alone was ...