March/April 2021 OUR BROWN COUNTY

The The Magazine Th Ma ag gazine of of Fun Fun and and Fact Fact

Deepp Musical Roots The Old State Bannk Building Stories, Gossip, and Talll Tales FIELD NOTES: Spring Ephemerals

March/April March/April 2021 021 FREE FREE

tasty!

high-quality ingredients make it

wild & tasty

TIP

Switch up your usual eggs by cooking them in one of our infused olive oils. Our top three choices are Garlic, Meyer Lemon, or Basil.

Healthy and good!

We’ve been bringing great taste to you since 2012 from our inviting little shop in the heart of Brown County, Indiana.

We have curated a flavorful collection for your tasting pleasure with plenty to offer for foodies, the experienced cook, or the novice. It goes well beyond the high-quality olive oils and balsamics we built our reputation on. We’ve added jams, pastas, dipping oils, salsas, sauces, and much more. Come in for a tour of tastes and let us be your guide. You’ll be wild about our shop.

Shop us online from anywhere, anytime at www.thewildolive.com

www.thewildolive.com | 37 W Main Street, Nashville, Indiana 47448 | (812) 988-9453

Village Green Building Celebrating over 100 years in nashville The Nashville you came to see and love…

Where you can see the work of local artists — whether it’s ice cream, candy and fruit preserves made the old fashioned way or the artwork of local artists and craftsmen. · first floor · Homemade Ice Cream Homemade Candies Homemade Fruit Preserves · second floor · Antiques · Art and Craft Galleries Working studios of local artists

V NA S H I L L E

INDIANA

The Candy Dish

Yes, we really do make it ourselves!

Fine Homemade Chocolate Candies and Fudge Gourmet Caramels Over 50 Flavors of Salt Water Taffy

812.988.0815

812.988.7606

Homemade Ice Cream

Harvest Preserve the

Homemade Fruit Butter Gourmet Food Cookbooks · Cookie Cutters Postcards · Greeting Cards Kitchen Gadgets Galore Giftware · Tea and Teaware

812.988.7606

Functional and Fine Art Made in Indiana

812.988.6675

61 West Main street · nashville, indiana

Nineveh Edinburgh Morgantown 31 37 135 I-65 46 Bloomington Columbus 46 NASHVILLE 252

Brownie’s Bean Blossom Restaurant

Monroe Music Park & Campground

HELMSBURG

BEAN BLOSSOM

Helmsburg General Store

Vaught Rd.

Country Club Rd

Old SR 4

Kelp G rove R d.

6

d

Recreation

A ls . KO nta n Co all tion Re ry w Tire M . o r o e e a C B iqu n Vac . Win wn o Ant Bro ONE Co. O’ Brow rown C n w WB s B A Bro N Hill G Salt Creek Mt . Li Golf Retreat Dunham ber Bidders ty R Junction d

Lil’ Black Bear Inn

NG

TO N

46

to COLUMBUS

Abe Martin Lodge

eXplore Brown County

135

Val le

yB

Mike’s Music and Dance Barn

Rd.

Bear Wallow Mainstream Distillery Fiber

MI to BL OO

Yellowwood Rd

Craftsman

ran ch

lley Rd.

Musical Entertainment Artist and/or Gallery

NASHVILLE

Green Va

Lodging/ Camping

Mike Nickels Log Homes

kR

Rd sburg

135

Brick Lodge

Rd.

Hoover Rd

Dining

Helm

Rd.

Oak Grove

46

Doodles by Kara Barnard

Flower and Herb Barn Farmhouse Café

Sal tC ree

to BL O

Ow l Cr eek

BELMONT

Cordry Lake

Sprunica Rd.

GATESVILLE

BLOOMINGTON

Yellowwood State Forest

Sweetwater Lake

Rosey Bolte’s Uncommon Gourd Studio

Lightspinner Studio

Dr. Lisa Baker, DDS Fireplace Center

The Apple Works

Antiques Co-op Art Beyond Crayons Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides House of Clocks

Upper Bean Blossom

Franklin

Trafalgar

Helmsburg Sawmill Pool Enterprises

45 OMIN GTON

Martinsville

TRAFALGAR MORGANTOWN

Clay Lick Rd

Lake Lemon

135

to MORGANTOWN

NASHVILLE MAP ON PAGE 6

Carmel Ridge Rd

Brown N County

Indianapolis

Brown County State Park

Monroe Reservoir

CHRISTIANSBURG

ELKINSVILLE Bob Allen Rd.

k Rd ton Cr

STORY

Hamil

Christi

ansbu

ove r Gr

rg Rd

STONE HEAD

la Pop

T.C. Steele State Historic Site

PIKES PEAK

Homestead Weaving Studio Salem’s Good Nature Farm

JEFFERSON STREET

HONEYSUCKLE LANE

OLD HICKORY LANE

Hoosier Artist Gallery

Fallen Leaf Books

Brown Co. Art Guild

Moonshine/ K. Bellum Leather

ST SR 135 N

Miller’s Ice Cream The Candy Dish The Harvest Preserve B3 Gallery

The Wild Olive

Brown Co. Rock & Fossil Shop

Brown Co. Winery

Head Over Heels

Heritage Candy Store

Heritage Mall

Spears Pottery Juls Etc.

Weed Patch Music Company

New Harmony Soap

Homes on a Limb

Main Street Shops

Woodlands Foxfire Gift & Home Gallery Foxfire Boutique

Log JJail L il

Pioneer Village Museum

MAIN STREET

The Nashville House

Courthouse

Copperhead Creek Gem Mine

Iris Garden Cottages & Suites

GOULD STREET Iris Garden Complex

Brown Co. History Center

Brown Co Public Library

Gold &Old

Health For U

Redbud Ter.

Old

RE/MAX Team

Centra Credit Office Union

County Offices

Touch of Silver

LOCUST LANE

Village Green

MOLLY’S LANE Big Woods Village

Common Grounds Coffee Bar

Colonial Bldg.

Men’s Toy Shop

Heavenly Biscuit

MOUND STREET

Hidden Valley Inn

ROBERT “BUCK” STOGSDILL WAY

TO HELMSBURG - 6 MILES

Michael’s Flowers

Zieg LeDoux & Associates

J.B. Goods/ Life is Good

TO BEAN BLOSSOM & MORGANTOWN

Brozinni Pizzeria

Carpenter Hills O’Brown Realty

North House

Hotel Nashville

46

IHA

Brown Co Art Gallery

Masonic Lodge

SR

ARTIST DR

VAN BUREN

The Salvation Army

Precise Books & Payroll

JEFFERSON STREET Hoosier Buddy

Thrift Shop Community Closet

Nashville BP

PITTMAN HOUSE LANE

PAT REILLY DR

Calvin Place

Schwab’s Fudge

New Leaf Amy Greely

Life is Good JB Goods

VAN BUREN ST SR 135 N

SR 46 TO BLOOMINGTON - 16 MILES

McGinley Insurance

Franklin Square

The Totem Post

Jack & Jill Nut Shop

Brown Co Playhouse

58 South Apparel

FRANKLIN STREET

HONEYSUCKLE LANE

Brown Co Massage

Clay Purl Brown Co Pottery

Antique Alley

Old McDurbin Gold & Gifts

Brown Co Craft Gallery

Nashville Spice Co.

Brown County Inn

Brown County IGA

Brown Co Community YMCA

Bear Hardware

map not to scale

Theatre

Dining

Brown Co Health & Living

Brown County Eye Care Blue Elk Family Clinic

Salt Creek Park

Casa Del Sol

Brown Co Music Center

Seasons Hotel & Conference Center

Doodles by Kara Barnard

Craftsman

Artist and/or Gallery Rest Room

Lodging

Musical Entertainment Parking

COUNTY MAP ON PAGE 5

Coachlight Square

SR 46 TO COLUMBUS - 16 MILES

Country Heritage Winery

Bone Appetit Bakery

N

Nashville Indiana

Nashville General Store & Bakery

Cornerstone Inn

WASHINGTON STREET

Nashville Fudge Kitchen Brown Co T-Shirt Shop Moondance Vacation Homes

Possum Trot Square

Carol’s Gifts House of Jerky Yesteryear Old Time Photos Back to Back Wishful Thinking

Artists Colony Inn

Artists Colony

The Emerald Pencil

Nashville Express

Rhonda Kay’s

Out of the Ordinary and Hickory Bar

OLD SCHOOL WAY

8 Our Brown County • March/April 2021

ADVERTISER

ANTIQUES

CRAFTS, POTTERY, GIFTS

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

Antiques Co-op................................. 52

Antiques Co-op................................. 52

Bear Wallow Distillery...................... 34

Bidder’s Junction.............................. 58

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Brown Co IGA.................................... 49

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 19

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 19

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 19

Brown Co Winery.............................. 24

Plum Creek Antiques....................... 56

Brown Co Art Guild........................... 19

Brozinni Pizzeria............................... 40

ART, ART SUPPLIES-INSTRUCTION

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 13

The Candy Dish................................... 3

Antiques Co-op................................. 52

Brown Co Rock & Fossil Shop......... 52

Casa del Sol........................................ 36

Art Beyond Crayons......................... 52

Carol’s Gifts........................................ 23

Cedar Creek Winery.......................... 13

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Clay Purl............................................. 41

Common Grounds Coffee Bar........ 55

Bear Hardware.............................50,56

The Emerald Pencil........................... 22

Country Heritage Winery................ 33

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 19

Foxfire Gift & Home.......................... 45

Farmhouse Cafe................................ 44

Brown Co Art Gallery....................... 18

Head Over Heels............................... 37

The Harvest Preserve......................... 3

Brown Co Art Guild........................... 19

Homes on a Limb.............................. 51

Heavenly Biscuit............................... 53

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 13

Homestead Weaving Studio........... 18

Helmsburg General Store............... 36

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 23

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 23

Heritage Candy Store....................... 29

Lightspinner Studio-M. Sechler..... 13

House of Clocks................................. 52

Hoosier Buddy Liquors.................... 25

Nashville General Store & Bakery.. 29

Lightspinner Studio-M. Sechler..... 13

Hotel Nashville.................................. 49

Rhoden Art at eXplore Brown Co.... 4

Men’s Toy Shop.................................. 29

House of Jerky................................... 36

Spears Pottery................................... 18

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 19

Jack and Jill Nut Shop...................... 13

C. Steele Art....................................... 56

Moonshine Leather.......................... 18

Miller’s Ice Cream................................ 3

Rosey Bolte-Uncommon Gourd..... 18

New Harmony Soap......................... 43

Nashville BP....................................... 53

BOOKS

New Leaf............................................. 19

Nashville General Store & Bakery.. 29

Bidder’s Junction.............................. 58

Rhonda Kay’s..................................... 40

The Nashville House......................... 51

The Emerald Pencil........................... 22

Spears Pottery................................... 18

Nashville Fudge Kitchen.................. 60

Fallen Leaf Books.............................. 12

The Totem Post.................................. 12

Nashville Spice Co............................. 59

CLOTHING

Rosey Bolte-Uncommon Gourd..... 18

Out of the Ordinary & Hickory Bar.41

58 South Apparel.............................. 40

Wishful Thinking............................... 55

Schwab’s Fudge................................... 3

Bear Hardware.............................50,56

Woodlands Gallery........................... 37

Seasons Hotel & Conference Ctr.... 41

Bidder’s Junction.............................. 58

ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC

The Wild Olive..................................... 2

Brown Co T-Shirt Shop..................... 39

Brown Co Playhouse........................ 33

FURNITURE

Community Closet Thrift Shop....... 37

Copperhead Creek Gem Mine........ 52

Antiques Co-op................................. 52

Foxfire Boutique............................... 45

eXplore Brown Co............................... 4

Bidder’s Junction.............................. 58

Head Over Heels............................... 37

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 19

J.B. Goods/ Life is Good................... 24

Abe Martin Lodge............................. 15

Plum Creek Antiques....................... 56

DIRECTORY

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 9

HARDWARE

Seasons Hotel & Conference Ctr.... 41

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 19

Bear Hardware.............................50,56

PET PRODUCTS

Mike Nickels Log Homes................. 36

HATS

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Nashville BP....................................... 53

Head Over Heels............................... 37

PHOTOS

Precise Books & Payroll.................... 56

Moonshine Leather.......................... 18

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Rambling Dog Design - SIGNS....... 58

JEWELRY

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 23

Zieg LeDoux & Assoc........................ 56

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Spears Pottery................................... 18

SHOES

Bidder’s Junction.............................. 58

Yesteryear Old Time Photos............ 44

Head Over Heels............................... 37

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 19

REAL ESTATE

Moonshine Leather.......................... 18

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 15

Carpenter Hills o’ Brown Realty..... 48

The Totem Post.................................. 12

Foxfire Boutique............................... 45

RE/MAX-Marg & Brenda.................. 58

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 23

RECREATION

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Juls Etc................................................ 24

eXplore Brown Co............................... 4

Brown Co Rock & Fossil Shop......... 52

New Leaf............................................. 19

Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides................ 50

Clay Purl............................................. 41

Old McDurbin Gold & Gifts............. 55

SERVICES

Fireplace Center................................ 37

Rhonda Kay’s..................................... 40

Amish Roofers................................... 25

Head Over Heels............................... 37

Spears Pottery................................... 18

Dr. Lisa Baker, DDS........................... 40

Health For U....................................... 57

The Totem Post.................................. 12

Bear Hardware’s Bagged Trash....... 56

House of Clocks................................. 52

Touch of Silver Gold & Old.............. 24

Bidder’s Junction - Auction House.58

House of Jerky................................... 36

LODGING/CAMPGROUNDS

Blue Elk Family Clinic....................... 57

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 19

Abe Martin Lodge............................. 15

Brown Co Convention &

Men’s Toy Shop.................................. 29

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

Visitors Bureau.................................. 35

Moonshine Leather.......................... 18

Brick Lodge........................................ 49

Brown Co Eye Care............................ 56

Nashville Spice Co............................. 59

Brown Co Health & Living............... 57

Brown Co Health & Living............... 57

Weed Patch Music Company.......... 19

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

Brown Co Massage........................... 53

Wishful Thinking............................... 55

Brown Co KOA................................... 36

Brown Co Tire & Auto....................... 56

WEDDINGS

Cornerstone Inn................................ 15

Brown Co Community YMCA.......... 58

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

eXplore Brown Co............................... 4

Centra Credit Union......................... 23

eXplore Brown Co............................... 4

Hidden Valley Inn............................. 55

Dave Carlile Heating & Cooling...... 57

Hotel Nashville.................................. 49

Hills O’ Brown Vacation Rentals..... 23

Dunham Plumbing........................... 58

OTHER

Hotel Nashville.................................. 49

Helmsburg Sawmill Inc/

Amish Roofers................................... 25

Iris Garden Cottages & Suites......... 53

Pool Enterprises Inc.......................... 58

Health For U....................................... 57

Lil’ Black Bear Inn.............................. 36

IN Seamless Guttering..................... 57

Flower and Herb Barn...................... 57

Moondance Vacation Homes......... 52

Mainstream Fiber Networks........... 57

Mike Nickels Log Homes................. 36

North House...................................... 49

McGinley Insurance (Farmers)........ 57

Contents 12 WHERE IS IT?

13 SUBSCRIBE 16 Steve Plessinger ~by Ryan Stacy 20 Kevin Ault & The Seasons ~by Boris Ladwig 26 Anne Ryan Miller ~by Bob Gustin 30-31 Photos by Anne Ryan Miller*

32 Calendar

34 Kara Barnard Cartoon

38 FIELD NOTES: Ephemerals ~by Jim Eagleman

42 Old State Building ~by Jeff Tryon 46 Deep Musical Roots ~by Julia Pearson

50 Sampler Collection Book

51 Park in National Register

54 Stories, Gossip, & Tall Tales ~by Mark Blackwell 56-58 INFO PAGES

Cover: The Courthouse Dogwoods

Contributors Bob Gustin worked as a reporter, photographer, managing editor, and editor for daily newspapers in Colorado, Nebraska, and Indiana before retiring in 2011. He and his wife, Chris, operate Homestead Weaving Studio. She does the weaving while he gives studio tours, builds small looms, and expands his book and record collections.

Ryan Stacy is a content writer at Monroe County Public Library, and also enjoys writing about Brown County. He and his wife live in Bloomington, where they can often be found chasing movies, good food, and cultural events. His other interests include reading, photography, and music.

Joe Lee is an illustrator and writer. He is the author of The History of Clowns for Beginners and Dante for Beginners and illustrator of six other titles, including Dada and Surealism for Beginners, and Music Theory for Beginners. He is an editorial cartoonist for the Bloomington Herald Times, a graduate of Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Clown College, and a veteran circus performer.

Mark Blackwell no longer makes his home in Brown County where “the roadway is rough and the slopes are seamed with ravines and present a meatless, barren, backbone effect.” He now resides within sight of the sixth green of an undisclosed golf course. He was born in the middle of the last century and still spends considerable time there.

Jeff Tryon is a former news editor of The Brown County Democrat, a former region reporter for The Republic, and a former bureau chief for The Huntsville Times. Born and raised in Brown County, he currently lives with his wife, Sue, in a log cabin on the edge of Brown County State Park. He is a Baptist minister.

Julia Pearson wrote for a Franciscan magazine for ten years and served as its human interest editor. She and husband Bruce now reside in Lake Woebegone Country for life’s continuing adventures. Julia enjoys traveling and visiting museums of all types and sizes, with her children and grandchildren.

Jim Eagleman, recently retired DNR naturalist, and his wife Kay, enjoy hiking the many natural areas, preserves, and land trust sites in Brown and neighboring counties. His FIELD NOTES have appeared in this publication for several years. Contact Jim with comments and inquiries at <jpeagleman@gmail.com>.

Boris Ladwig is a Columbusbased journalist who has worked in print, online and TV media in Indiana and Kentucky and has won awards for features, news, business, non-deadline news, First Amendment/community affairs and investigative reporting.

*Anne Ryan Miller, lives and works in Brown County. Her studio is located on the historic artist home and studio of Dale Bessire.

She is known for her stained glass landscape creations, inspired by her many photographs and memories of the forests and hills of Brown County. View her work at <anneryanmillerglassstudio.com>.

~by Cindy Steele ourbrowncounty.com ourbrown@bluemarble.net

Thanks to Kara Barnard for the cartoon.

Also online at issuu.com/ourbrowncounty OR search in the mobile app ISSUU and on Facebook for OUR BROWN COUNTY

P.O. Box 157 Helmsburg, IN 47435 (812) 988-8807

10 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Cindy Steele is the publisher and editor of this magazine.

She sells and designs ads, sometimes writes, takes photos, and creates the layout.

For fun, she likes to play the guitar or banjo and sing.

copyright 2021 Thanks, Mom, for making it happen!

Coloring Contest Win $20

Publisher’s choice. Send to this address by April 20.

OUR BROWN COUNTY P.O. Box 157 Helmsburg, IN 47435

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 11

Guess Photo to Win $20 WHERE IS IT? Call (812) 988-8807 Be the first person to call and win the money!

Leave a message identifying the location of the photo along with your name and phone number.

Last issue featured the squirrel in front of the Acorn Cottage in Nashville.

Betty Taggart was the first person with the correct guess.

A Wonderful Mix of ks Old, New, Used and Rare Books Journals • Sketchbooks Handmade Greeting Cards Local Postcards 45 S. Jefferson St. • Nashville, IN 812.988.0202 fallenleafbooks.com Open 7 days a week 10 am to 5 pm

12 Our Brown County March/April 2021

The Totem Post ~Since 1952~

• Genuine Native American Jewelry • Zuni Fetishes • Sterling Silver Jewelry • Copper Jewelry 78 S. Van Buren St. • Minnetonka Moccasins Nashville , IN • Pendleton • Knives 812-988-2511 ~Open all year~ TheTotemPost.com

SUBSCRIBE! C Cinnamon Salted Roasted Nuts Almonds R d Roasted & Pecans Daily Cashews, Fancy Mi Mix, P Pepitas, it Peanuts Delicious Candies - Homemade Fudge Mail Orders - 812-988-7480

S.Van Buren (Shopper's Lane) Nashville

For the cost of a fancy coffee drink once every two months, you can have Our Brown County sent to your mailbox. That pays for postage, supplies, and processing time. Subscriptions make good gifts to family or friends, too.

SUBSCRIBE

One Year’s Subscription for $20 (six issues)

Lightspinner Studio Martha Sechler Unique Watercolors Mixed Media Gourd Art

4460 Helmsburg Rd. Nashville, IN • 812-703-3129

Name: N

Open June thru December — Call Ahead

Address:

Mail with check or money order to:

local artisans

created by hand

38 Franklin St. E. | Nashville, IN | drinkatthecreek.com | Open Every Day

E S T

1 9 7 8

BROWN COUNTY

Our Brown County P.O. Box 157 • Helmsburg, IN 47435

BONE APPETIT BAKERY

Fine arts and crafts by local and area artists

For Dogs

View their work on Facebook & Instagram

• Premium, all-natural treats since 1997 • Over 20 varieties from low-fat to grain-free • Gourmet and seasonal snacks, too

See something you want?

Message us!

Gallery Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10 am – 5 pm plus additional days in April

call 812.988.7058 62 E. Washington · Nashville, IN · BrownCountyCraftGallery.com

Get a FREE Sampler bag of natural dog treats with $10 purchase and this ad.

DOGS WELCOME! (812) 988-0305

Open 7 days 211 S. Van Buren St. (behind Visitor Center)

www.barkingood.com

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 13

brown County Inn HOTEL, RESTAURANT & BAR

On the corner of 135 & 46 just 3 blocks of downtown with free parking

Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week

8am to 9pm Sunday to Thursday

8am to 10pm Friday & Saturday

www.browncountyinn.com

14 Our Brown County March/April 2021

(812) 988-2291

REST • RELAX • REJUVENATE

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 15

“I

Steve Plessinger

couldn’t have made this album when I was twenty-five,” says singer-songwriter Steve Plessinger of his latest effort, Time Wasted, due out later this year. “These are songs from the heart.” For Steve, the nine tracks represent a point on his musical journey many artists never reach: a place where personal experience, dedication to form and craft, and the confidence to draw wisely upon each of them distill into something as mature and refined as a prized bourbon.

16 Our Brown County March/April 2021

~story and photos by Ryan Stacy

The sincerity and vulnerability on display on Time Wasted have their roots in Steve’s lifelong respect for music’s power. “I remember going to church as a kid in Columbus, Indiana, being captivated by the harmonies of choir, the playing of the piano and the organ” he says.

“That’s a connection to the divine.” A few years later, he found the same magnetic qualities in the music of Simon & Garfunkel. “How does someone create this otherworldly thing, just using an instrument and their voice?” he remembers thinking.

By age fourteen, Steve was playing guitar himself, learning from his friends. And though their technique wasn’t too polished yet, they were hooked. “We were fervent about it, talking about music all the time, wanting to write radio hits,” he says. When he was old enough, Steve made the short drive to Nashville, where he fell in love with the music scene he discovered there. “I would watch Chris Little, Tommy Simmons, and Merrie Sloan play at the Daily Grind. And there was nothing more magical to me than them creating music in that coffee shop.”

Steve made the move to Brown County as a young adult, where he was soon playing regularly at the legendary Muddy Boots Cafe in Nashville—which just happened to be co-owned by his aunt, Tyra Miller. “I was able to play my family card there,” he laughs. But as his circle of musician friends grew, Steve realized his connections would only take him so far. “For such a small town, there’s just a fountain of talent. But it’s also got a smalltown humility to it. People don’t like fakes, they don’t like people that aren’t genuine.”

The Midwestern work ethic he grew up around pushed Steve to keep writing songs and booking gigs, and after years of sticking mostly to acoustic music, he changed direction, joining the electric rock band the Warm Bloods. A few recordings later, he was ready to return to solo work, and soon Steve, now in his forties, was writing what would become Time Wasted. With more of life’s experiences informing his songwriting, Steve focused on sharpening his vision for the album. “In the past, I didn’t put as much care into each phrase. But [with this album] I challenged myself not to get caught up in the same themes. To really try to stretch as a writer, like Jason Isbell or Chris Stapleton who can bring across an image or a feeling in just a couple lines.”

Along with all the other artists struggling to create in the midst of a pandemic, Steve had to make adjustments with Time Wasted.

But in his case, he says, the disruption brought by the 2020 shutdown was a blessing in disguise. “I was able to take a step back and listen to what we already had recorded, for hours and hours. It allowed me to get my thoughts together, so when we were able to get together and record again, I had fresh ideas for adding new parts, new touches.”

One of the insights his life in music has offered, Steve explains, is that he’s more comfortable with who he is as a songwriter. “I’m almost 45, so I don’t have any delusions. I don’t necessarily expect a younger person to hear my songs and be able to relate. There are just some lessons in life you have to go through. My goal is just to put my music out into the world and to see the reaction.”

Steve Plessinger’s new album Time Wasted is expected to be released in late spring of 2021. 

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 17

HOMESTEAD WEAVING STUDIO See homesteadweaver.com for remote shopping Quality Handwovens

by Chris Gustin

Brown County Art Gallery 2021 Gallery Events APRIL 9 – MAY 23

Yarn • Looms • Supplies • Classes

Southeastern Brown County 6285 Hamilton Creek Road Columbus, IN 47201

812-988-8622

Historic Indiana en Plein Air

Open 11 to 5 most days CALL AHEAD Visit us on the Back Roads Tour

JUNE 12 – JULY 10

Indiana Heritage Arts 43rd Exhibition and Sale

JULY 24 – AUGUST 22 Indiana Printmakers Get their Due

Indiana HistoricPRINTMAKERS PRINTIndiana Get Their Due MAKERS

en Plein Air

43RD ANNUAL

EXHIBITION & SALE

Get Their Due

SAVE THE DATE FOR THESE FUTURE EVENTS AUGUST 28 – SEPTEMBER 26 | William McKendree Snyder: The First to Come OCTOBER 2 – NOVEMBER 14 | Collectors’ Showcase

Locally Crafted Pottery • Jewelry • Photography • Wood • Fiber • More...

Downtown Nashville (S. Van Buren St. near stoplight/courthouse) • Open Daily

www.spearspottery.com • 812.988.1286 • Spears Gallery on Facebook

Corner of Main Street & Artist Drive · Nashville, IN 812.988.4609 · Free Admission · Free Parking BROWNCOUNTYARTGALLERY.ORG shop online: bcartgalleryonline.org OPEN DAILY WITH COVID-19 PROTOCOLS IN PLACE

Moonshine Leather Co. Handcrafted Leather Goods Made in the USA

812.988.1326 · moonshineleather.com

38 SOUTH VAN BUREN · NASHVILLE, IN New home of K Bellum Leather!

18 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Flowers Locally built instruments and affordable student models meticulously displayed, making this little music store a destination point in Brown County Lovingly owned and operated by

Kara Barnard and Kristin Thompson

musicians, instructors and instrument adoption specialists

58 E. Main Nashville, IN—Look for BANJO by courthouse

812-200-3300 • www.weedpatchmusicshop.com

NEW LEAF An eclectic mix of creative items by local, regional, and global artists

Brown County Antique Mall Antique Store since 1972

Over 10,000 square feet in three buildings More than 76 dealers • We buy and sell

3288 State Road 46 East 3 miles east of Nashville, IN • 13 miles west of I-65 Open 7 Days a week till 5:30 • 812-988-1025

© 2021 Brown County Art Guild, Inc.

Featuring handcrafted jewelry by owner Amy Greely

Calvin Place Franklin & Van Buren Streets Nashville, IN • (812) 988-1058 www.amygreely.com

Filled with antiques, jewelry, pottery, china, glass, furniture, artifacts, primitives, books, collectibles, and home decor.

The Guild.

Fine Art by Fine Artists.

SPRING

GALLERY AND MUSEUM

EXHIBITION & SALE

48 S. Van Buren Street Nashville, IN 47448 812 988-6185 BrownCountyArtGuild.org Detail of What Feeds the Soul by Charlene Brown

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 19

Kevin Ault A Change of Seasons

O

~story and photos by Boris Ladwig

n a recent frigid but sunny afternoon, the high-pitched whine of a circular saw echoed through an empty room that will soon house a new bar and restaurant at The Seasons. Sparks from the saw provided scarce illumination as co-owner and General Manager Kevin Ault said that he hopes the new eatery, to be called Rafters, can host patrons as early as this spring. The space appeared largely unfinished at the time of our interview, with new windows serving as one of the hints that crews were making progress on the roughly $3 million project.

Ault and his business partners hope the overhaul will bring the hotel in line with predilections of millennials and Generation Z, who, Ault said, are now his biggest customer base and generally prefer high-end pub grub to fancy dinners served on white tablecloths.

20 Our Brown County March/April 2021

To be sure, some of the former restaurant’s signature dishes, including fried chicken and biscuits with apple butter, will return, as will some design elements from the old dining room, which was dominated by antiques and wooden beams. Ault said Rafters will have more of a pub feel, with lots of TVs, tuned primarily to sports. The hotel overall will have a more modern design, focusing on elements of wood, stone, and metal. New walkways, for example, will be made from concrete and steel.

While Ault’s involvement with the company dates back only to 2016, his experience in the Brown County’s hospitality industry has lasted decades and includes stints at local hotels and service for nonprofit and government entities such as the Brown County Music Center, the local school board, and the Convention and Visitors Commission, which oversees the innkeeper’s tax distribution.

Ault graduated from Brown County High School and studied business management at Indiana University for two years before focusing on work and family. He got married at age 19, and two years later, he and his wife, Janet, had their first child, Meghan. Their second child, Wesley, arrived two years after that.

Ault began his career in the hospitality industry at age 15 as a busboy at the Brown County Inn. Over nine years, he worked his way up to dining room host, banquet setup, and left as banquet manager in 1988. After a year as assistant director at the Brown County Convention and Visitors Bureau, he joined Hotel Nashville as assistant general manager, becoming general manager in 1993.

Ault and his business partners, Hotel Nashville Inc., bought The Seasons in October 2016 for $1.3 million from Brown County businessman Andy Rogers, who was in his 80s and liquidating some of his assets. Rogers passed away two years later.

The hotel opened as a Ramada Inn in April 1970, adding the nearby conference

center in 1973. In 1984, it was remodeled and its name changed to The Seasons Lodge. A 2007 fire destroyed 60 of its 80 rooms. 32 of those rooms were rebuilt and 52 are available now.

When Ault and his partners bought the lodge, they wanted to expand and remodel. They figured they could make changes while keeping most of the hotel open. They put in a new heating/air conditioning system, replaced water heaters, and insulated pipes. But then COVID changed their step-by-step remodeling plans and created an opportunity to do more at one time. The hotel has hosted a few guests this winter, but the structure’s common areas, including the entryway and bar/ restaurant, are undergoing drastic changes.

The pool is gone. In its place, the hotel will have a 10,000-square-foot outdoor patio that will provide seating for bar/restaurant patrons and may host some live music and weddings.

Despite the construction and winter/COVIDinduced slowdown, Ault said the Seasons and Hotel Nashville have retained most of their staff, though some employees retired or left voluntarily.

Other employees have found new roles. One of the Continued on 22

The Seasons is located in Nashville on State Road 46, perched high on a ridge overlooking the countryside.

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 21

KEVIN AULT continued from 21 cooks is doing maintenance work and painting. Ault said he expects a major hiring spree shortly before Rafters opens.

Ault said he still works about 50 to 60 hours per week, though that’s less than he put in before the slowdown. He said his wife keeps teasing him about his reduced hours, asking when he’s going to go back to work full-time.

Ault said his business partners tell him that he has a tough time delegating. He says he just likes being hands-on.

Despite the slowdown, uncertainties regarding the pandemic and the significant investments, Ault said he expects the hotel to generate a profit. The business partners used their own money for the upgrades, so they’re not facing any pressure from lenders.

While Ault describes himself as a workaholic, Brown County Schools Superintendent Laura Hammack said the first word that comes to her mind when talking about Ault is “service.”

He has given back to the community in just about

GIFTS, CARDS, BOOKS, & SURPRISES

36 West Franklin Street at the trolley stop • Nashville

22 Our Brown County March/April 2021

every domain, she said, from serving on the school board to supporting charitable causes such as running concession stands to raise money for local athletes.

Hammack, who is in her fifth year as superintendent, said Ault supports the community with a positive attitude and an open mind and an open heart. He gives great bear hugs when people might be down, and he is quick to smile and provide encouragement, she said.

“There’s just a joy about him that is absolutely contagious,” Hammack said.

Ault has made his commercial spaces available for fundraising events, and often at cost, without publicizing that information or wanting credit for it, Hammack said. For example, a successful fundraiser for the Brown County Resource Center took place in January 2020.

That’s just one of dozens of examples through which Ault has supported the community, Hammack said.

Ault said he views his community service as an opportunity to grow, and, he said, the community has given a lot to him.

Perhaps it comes as no surprise that Ault, a self-described workaholic, said he likes to spend his infrequent spare time doing work on his rental properties or in his yard, especially mowing his big lawn, at his home about nine miles from Nashville.

“I’m a die-hard lawn mower,” he said. It runs in the family—his mother Linda, who is 78, still mows her lawn.

The hospitality business, too, has become a family affair. Both of Ault’s children waited tables at Hotel Nashville and told him when they were younger that they did not want to be in the restaurant business. But both have followed in their father’s footsteps.

Meghan Williams, 34, worked at Applebee’s in college and stayed with the chain for about a decade, beginning as a waitress and leaving as a manager.

Wesley Ault, 32, also worked at Applebee’s and managed restaurants in Columbus and Edinburgh before joining Tap Brewery in Bloomington as general manager.

Ault’s two primary business partners are older than 70, and Ault is starting to work on a succession plan.

Meghan serves as restaurant and catering manager and Ault hopes Wesley, too, will join the business.

Ault said the three had worked together for a long time, catering events, and he would be excited to have them all back together again. 

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March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 23

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Cold Beer, Fine Wines & Select Spirits Cold Beer:

Hoosier Buddy offers more than 150 different beers, including more than 80 craft, micro, and imports.

We proudly offer a wide variety of beers from Indiana’s finest brewers.

Fine Wines:

Hoosier Buddy is a wine-lovers type of store. With more than 200 wines to choose from, we’ve got something for everyone. Check out our “Affordable Imports” and “90+ Point” selections.

• 20 Guest Rooms, 3 Suites with Whirlpool Baths • Banquet and Conference Rooms for Retreats or Parties • Gift Certificates Available Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Breakfast Buffet 7:30 am–10:30 am Monthly Dinner Theatre Shows At the corner of Van Buren and Franklin Streets in Nashville, Indiana

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Hoosier Buddy offers an ever expanding array of top-notch spirits. Our whiskey category alone includes more than 75 different choices. Whether you’re looking for a Single Barrel Bourbon or a Single Malt from Islay— we stock them.

284 S. Van Buren • Nashville, IN (next to Subway) 812-988-2267 M-Th 8am-10pm • Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm NOW OPEN SUNDAYS Noon-6pm Follow us on Twitter @HoosierBuddy1

As always, Hoosier Buddy Liquors reminds you to celebrate safe—don’t drink and drive.

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 25

Anne Ryan Miller Nature in Glass

O

~story and photos by Bob Gustin

ften, the inspiration for Anne Ryan Miller’s unique stained glass creations is just outside the door of her studio, in the forests and natural beauty of Brown County.

Her work encompasses a variety of projects, many naturebased, some abstract, and some special designs for commissioned jobs.

One of her latest projects is to create big glass panels for a church in Lansing, Michigan. Each

panel measures 90 by 48 inches and has 550 individual cut glass pieces. So far, the project has taken nearly two years as designs have changed along the way to suit the needs of the church.

Stained glass windows have had a traditional home in places of worship and spirituality, and Anne has some thoughts on why that is.

“It has to do with their relationship with color,” she said.

“Originally, stained glass was all transparent, and the light coming

26 Our Brown County March/April 2021

through them was rather magical. Light hits the glass and it spills all over the floor.

“It has to do with the whole idea of how color affects us emotionally. Color can be exhilarating; it can be calming.”

She notes that scientists have identified a “God part” of the human brain, an emotional and spiritual center.

“Light, color, and sound (music) are all keys that open the door to that part of the brain.’’

One of two panels commissioned for a church. 7.5’ x 3.25’ trees depicting Michigan’s white pines against a Michigan sunset.

“As an artist, I have found that Brown County is just one of the most beautiful, gentle, and spiritual spots in the world.

The soft, misty, hazy air, the rolling hills and the sweet, loving people, many of whom I include as friends, have all contributed to … decades of my landscape and glass art.”

Anne describes herself as a spiritual, but not necessarily religious, person. Her background is in science, and her spirituality is based in nature.

While she thrives on pieces which spring from her own creativity, she also enjoys commissions.

“It’s fun to get into somebody’s head and get images and ideas.

It’s in connection with others that those creations evolve.”

And human connections are important to Anne. That’s one of the reasons she loves living in Brown County. In addition to the natural beauty, the county provides a sense of community and safety, she said.

An unusual aspect of Anne’s work is her use of metal overlays. Stained glass pieces are traditionally fused together in one of two methods, either with lead came (lead channels which are soldered together to form a framework to hold the glass) or with copper foil (thin copper strips folded over the edges of the glass, then soldered for strength).

Glass can either be transparent or opalescent. And opalescent glass comes in a wide freeflowing variety, sometimes with swirls and combinations of colors which are reminiscent of sunsets, cloudy skies, or other elements of nature.

To accomplish her complicated glass designs, she handpicks each piece of glass, then, draws individual elements on paper, numbers them, transfers them to selected areas of colored glass, and cuts glass to match the design.

“It’s like doing a puzzle,” she said.

“It has to be done a certain way.”

Anne has always used copper foil.

But she discovered the foil comes in more sizes than just the quarter-inch width traditionally used. Experimenting with larger copper pieces, she first draws details on paper, then traces them onto large copper sheets after Continued on 28

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 27

ANNE RYAN MILLER continued from 27 cleaning and burnishing the glass. She then cuts the intricate designs into the copper foil with an X-Acto knife, and finally builds up texture on the copper design with solder and a soldering iron. It is an exacting process.

These copper designs, sometimes placed on both sides of a unique opalescent piece, make for stunning finished pieces.

It’s an unusual technique she pioneered, which has since been tried by others.

She’s been working in stained glass since 1976, but her journey in the medium has not been a direct route. Miller attended the University of Michigan’s school of natural resources and got a degree in environmental education, followed by an internship in alternative education through Indiana University, and wound up in Bloomington.

An artist friend gave her a stained glass project to work on, and Anne took over from there, teaching herself. She was part of a glass cooperative gallery in Bloomington before moving to Brown County.

“Life just leads you places,” she said. In 1981, it led her to Brown County, and to marriage with architect Steve Miller, grandson of famed

Willows and egrets commissioned for a couple’s bathroom.

28 Our Brown County March/April 2021

artist Dale Bessire. They live in a house on a hill above Nashville once owned by Bessire, and Anne’s studio was remodeled from Bessire’s old cow barn.

“As an artist, I have found that Brown County is just one of the most beautiful, gentle and spiritual spots in the world,” she says as part of a biography on her website. “The soft, misty, hazy air, the rolling hills and the sweet, loving people, many of whom I include as friends, have all contributed to … decades of my landscape and glass art.”

Here, she soaks in the most important inspiration for her work.

“Many people have chosen to give low priority to nature, but we are all of this world and we all live together.

“My biggest goal is just to be aware and alive and appreciate and be impacted by the beauty of the world we live in,” she said. “I’m really not trying to say anything, just ‘isn’t this beautiful?’”

You can find Miller’s work at Hoosier Artist Gallery and at <anneryanmillerglassstudio.com>. 

Nashville’s Unique Dining Experience (1800s Cabin) BREAKFAST & LUNCH

Jams, Jellies, Preserves, Specialty BBQ, Chicken Salad, Soups, Pit Ham 118 E. Washington St. Nashville, IN Linen, Rugs, Candles, Curtains, Stitcheries Cinnamon Rolls, Cobblers, Cookies, Brownies 812-988-6362 • Open daily 9 to 5 Gluten Free Items, Coffees and Cappuccino Antiques, Billy Jacobs Prints nashville general store and bakery nashgenstore812

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Variety of T-Shirts

Things you can live Thi li without... ih but b who h wants to!

Old Colonial Bldg. 60 N. Van Buren St. Nashville, Indiana•812.988.6590 menstoyshop@yahoo.com•Visit us on Facebook

Tobaccos and Premium Cigars

Knives by Benchmade, Kershaw, Microtech, Esee, Tops, Protech, Zero Tolerance and more

Guns and Ammo for Competition, Hunting, Sport, and Home Defense

Luminox Watches (used by Navy Seals)

41 S. Van Buren St. Nashville, IN (in the Heritage Mall) 812.200.1077 HeritageCandyStore@gmail.com

We ship everywhere!

Fresh Homemade Fudge Old-Fashioned Candies Candy by the Pound Cream Filberts/Mothballs Rock Candy • Jelly Belly Chocolates/Turtles Pucker Powder Sugar Free

Ask about our Wedding Favors and Fundraising with Fudge

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 29

photos by Anne Ryan Miller

calendar

The schedule can change. Please check before making a trip.

State Park Hike Series

Brown County Art Guild

Offers chances to learn some local legends and discover some hidden away places.

Most hikes travel about two miles or so and last from about one to two hours.

Due to COVID restrictions hikes will have limited capacity and will require registration. Register at WinterHikeSeriesBCSP.eventbrite.com Registration for each hike will begin two weeks prior to the hike.

Be sure to dress for the weather and wear the proper shoes for the hikes. Many of the hikes are rugged. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Cancellations might become necessary during extreme weather.

Guild Spring Show 48 S. Van Buren St. 812-988-6185 www.BrownCountyArtGuild.org

March 6 To the Lake that Never Was March 20 Deserter’s Cave March 27 To Kelp Village For more info contact the Nature Center 812- 988-5240 or email Patrick Haulter at phaulter@dnr.in.gov

Country Heritage Winery March 5 Live Music March 6 Robbie Bowden & Friends March 12 Live Music March 13 Steve Fulton March 19 Open Mic Night March 20 Ross Benson March 26 Live Music March 27 Live Music April 2 Live Music April 3 Live Music April 9 Live Music April 10 Speed City Spoilers April 16 Live Music April 17 Steve Fulton April 23 Bob Palindrome April 24 Bakersfield Bound 225 Van Buren St. 812-988-8500 www.countryheritagewinery.com

Brown County Art Gallery Historic Indiana en Plein Air Show April 9-May 23 Corner of Main St. & Artist Dr. 812-988-4609 www.BrownCountyArtGallery.org

Cask & Still Monthly Pairings Dinner First Thursdays: March 4, April 1, 6:30-8:30 Big Woods, the Original, 60 Molly’s Lane Unique brews and spirits paired with delicious food. Coursing through Big Woods. You will spend the evening tasting.

812-988-6000 www.bigwoodsrestaurants.com/nashville/

Soup Bowl Benefit March 28, 5:00-7:00 The Seasons Conference Center 560 East State Road 46 Get a unique hand-thrown bowl by local potters and fill those bowls with fine soups from local restaurants. Live music and silent auction. Proceeds benefit Mother’s Cupboard, providing free hot meals 364 days a year to anyone who asks for food. Advance tickets available at the Brown Co IGA and thru Mother’s Cupboard board members. Tickets are also available at the door.

Easter Beer Hunt at Hard Truth Hills April 3 & 4, 10:00-3:00 418 Old State Road 46 Easter egg hunt for adults 812-720-4840

Paint & Sip at Story Inn

Youth Mountain Bike Camp

March 7, April 11, 3:45-6:45 Story Inn, 6404 State Road 135 $25 for an afternoon of painting with ! beverages & food available for purchase.

Each participant will receive a canvas, paint, brushes, and instruction.

812-988-2273 www.storyinn.com

April 10 & 11, 9:00am-noon Brown Co State Park, 1810 State Road 46 Learn skills, play games, and head to the trails for rides.

317-296-4440 hello@dnkpresents.com www.dnkpresents.com

Brown County Playhouse

Backpacking: What’s In Your Pack?

Back 2 Mac March 26 (formerly Rumours) featuring songs from Fleetwood Mac. 70 S. Van Buren St. 812-988-6555 www.browncountyplayhouse.org

32 Our Brown County March/April 2021

April 17, 10:00-2:00 Brown Co State Park, 1810 State Road 46 See/discuss contents of a good backpack, as well as construct a tent. Break for lunch then hike. 317-296-4440 hello@dnkpresents.com www.dnkpresents.com

Photo: Angela Jackson Photography

I appreciate the history and hope we are making new history that will continue to inspire others well into the future. The Brown County Playhouse is important to the legacy of the artist colony.

Photo: Angela Jackson Photography

I love performing here and being involved.

CH UCK W I L L S / LO N GT I ME PAT RO N & P E RFO RME R

812.988.6555 | BrownCountyPlayhouse.org

Wine Tasting Daily Choose from multiple Award Winning Wines!

Patio & Indoor Seating Gift Shop Live Music Every Friday & Saturday 7-10 pm S. Van Buren & Washington, Nashville IN

812.988.8500

countryheritagewinery.com

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 33

34 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Brown County, Indiana.

Then. Now. And always.

We’ve missed you in Brown County, Indiana! And we’re happy to welcome you back!

Brown County has always been known for its abundance of natural beauty, it’s breathtaking vistas, and it’s thriving arts, shopping and dining scene. And it always will be.

Welcome back to Brown County, a place you’ve loved ... then, now and always.

For help planning your trip, call 812-988-7303, or visit BrownCounty.com

BVB-0277-Spring 2021 Our Brown County Ad-7.25x9.25-FNL.indd 1

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 35PM 2/11/21 5:11

Helmsburg GENERAL STORE

Owners: Sharon & Leonard Richey

Pizza & Wings, Groceries, Ice Large Selection Domestic/Craft Beer & Wine LOTTERY, Tobacco Products Camping Supplies, Live Bait & Tackle Hunting & Fishing Licenses Check Station, Firewood State Road 45 and Helmsburg Road Intersection • (812) 929-7797

AAuthentic Mexican Cuisine

11 flavors of BEEF 3 flavors of TURKEY 3 flavors of BEEF BRISKET 4 flavors of BEEF STICKS 2 flavors of PORK 2 flavors of BACON Also: Elk, Boar, Buffalo, Venison, Gator, Rabbit, Salmon, Kangaroo, Turtle, Ostrich, Trout, Camel, Python, Ahi

Jerky Seasonings & Dips • Peanuts

125 S. Van Buren St. Artists Colony Shops (Between Toy Chest and Carol’s Gifts)

Nashville, IN • (812) 988-1592

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Lil Black Bear Inn B&B

Family Owned and Operated •Daily Specials •Kid’s Menu

Breakfast Bre Br Bre rea ak akf kffa k ast as sstt Daily Daily Da illy ly

FULL BAR AVAILABLE 812-988-4535 Carry Out Available COACHLIGHT SQUARE 101 E. Washington St. one block east of S. Van Buren St. (in front of the high school) in downtown Nashville

Your Home away from Home On three acres with a pond, grill, firepit, hot tub, and large patio

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Brown County

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A mile from the new Brown County Music Center

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36 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Building Fine Log Homes for over 40 Years HONESTY • INTEGRITY • HANDCRAFTED QUALITY

3497 Clay Lick Road • Nashville, IN • (812) 988-2689 mikenickelslogcabins.com

87 East Main Street • Nashville, IN • (812) 988-6080

Head over

Heels

• Minnetonka • Stetson n • Tilleyy Hats • Merrell

Women’s boutique, kids and teen clothing, men’s clothing, and household items Selling gently used items to benefit Brown County.

Accepting clothing and household item donations.

Look for the sign

s

Open ALWAYS on Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:00 to 5:00 (weather permitting)

HATS HA ATS • FOOTWEAR • ACCESSORIES

Like us on Facebook at Brown County Community Closet, Inc.

49 S. Van Buren St. in Nashville • 812-988-6535 headoverheels@switched.com • fax: 812-988-6505

South Van Buren in Nashville (near stoplight, behind Subway) (812) 988-6003

THE FIREPLACE CENTER

Complete line of: • Wood Stoves and Inserts • Gas Stoves and Inserts • Fireplaces Your first step to Energy INDEPENDENT LIVING 812-336-2053 1-800-344-3967

1210 W. 2nd St. Bloomington BloomingtonFireplaces.com

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 37

FIELD NOTES: Ephemerals T

~by Jim Eagleman

he ground outside my window is more white than brown right now. Next week’s predicted rain will dissipate the remaining snow—the moisture from both adding to my native plant area and the experimental Hugel mounds I wrote about in earlier Field Notes.

Another order from a native plant nursery should arrive soon, and the mere thought of warming temps makes me anxious. Spring is coming!

The first spring wildflowers: hepatica, spring beauty, rue anemone, toothwort, and others, are referred to as ephemerals, the early bloomers. Their first-of-the-year brilliance is the color I look for, from monochrome to sudden pastels, bathed in the sun’s warmth that slowly dries mats of dead leaves. These plants appear quickly from the sun-flected forest floor, while the canopy overhead is still open.

In a few days, the flowers push into the cool spring air, fueled by storehouses of energy from the previous year. Some of them grow from hidden, below-ground stems called rhizomes, others emerge from corms or fibrous roots. Only after the plants have leafed out will photosynthesis boost survival. This strategy helps them persist in the light-hungry world of the chilly woods.

Once rapid growth has reached this point, we momentarily inspect these beauties. Don’t plan to return in a few days with a camera or flower book—they will have probably disappeared. “Short-lived” is their trademark— so enjoy them while you can.

Once these ephemerals have unfurled their leaves, they reap sunlight’s energy and carbon dioxide at a furious rate. The breathing holes in their leaves, the stomata, are opened wide.

One plant biologist and author, David Haskell, calls them the “fast-food junkies of the forest.”

38 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Bloodroot

Spring Beauty

Toothwort

SPRING Long to wait, the forest slowly stirs from a deep sleep.

The first blooms come quickly, much anticipated, here, then gone.

A hue of light blue.

It was worth the wait.

—William Sullivan, 1994 “They eat rapidly, rushing to get through the meal…before the branches overhead block out the light. They require bright sunlight to sustain this gluttony! Their hyped-up bodies cannot tolerate shade,” he says.

It’s the trilliums that grow at a slower rate, another much admired spring flower. The toadshade trillium, not as common I find as the prairie or sessile trillium, is accompanied by a trio of dappled leaves, found among the hepatica and spring beauty. But it is not in the race. Toadshade trillium’s leaves have few enzymes with which to harness sunlight, so they cannot match the ephemeral growth rate. The lesser numbers of enzymes require less energy, though, so it can persist into the shade of late spring.

Research on the wildflower community reveals more nature relationships. This information, once thought as trivial, can and does affect us gardeners, amateur horticulturists, and plant lovers who attribute soil health to overall forest health. Flowers create more than beauty.

Their growing roots reinvigorate the dark soil, absorbing and holding nutrients that might be removed by spring rains. Each root tip secretes a nutritious gel that collects on

hairy fibers. Bacteria, fungi spores, and singlecelled organisms exist here, creating food for nematodes, mites, and microscopic insects.

These are fed on by larger insect predators like centipedes and pill bugs, eaten by mice and shrews. These healthy creatures provide food for the larger wildlife: foxes, hawks and owls, coyotes, snakes, and raccoons. The food chain involves a variety of plants and animals; and in diversity, states a biologic axiom, lies stability.

The window of time between snowmelt and when trees leaf out is unpredictable, often uncertain. Some years it can last weeks—then warming temperatures can quickly move into heated days. The ephemerals die back in the heat of summer, retreating underground until next year. These plants bloom, undergo pollination, and produce seed—the destiny of all plants—in a very short time.

My native plant order includes both seeds and ephemeral rootstocks, clumps of intermingled roots. They appear healthy and are promoted to survive shipment and growth. I learn that if I plant them upon arrival, they are likely to go into dormancy without flowering. If I plan for the order to arrive in fall, the roots will have time to become established and emerge to bloom in spring. Either way, it’s a bonus to this young forest that would otherwise take much longer to produce these fleeting beauties of spring. 

Design Your Own or choose from Ready Made Garments Hundreds of choices! • Something for all ages and sizes • T-Shirts • Hoodies • LS Tees • Hats

• Tanks • Jackets • Jerseys • Tye Dye

• Night Shirts • Swim Shorts • Beach Towels • Flip Flops

Corner of Washington and Van Buren Street (Across from Visitors Center) Nashville, IN • 812-988-6939

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 39

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

You will find traffic stopping items at 58 South!

Our porch review has attracted many of you already.

We enjoy offering today’s fashion. You’ll find affordable items that are wearable every day or for those special occasions. Our accessories, hats, and scarves complete the outfit or add new fresh looks to your existing wardrobe. Our Fitflops will bring comfort to your tired and weary feet—come hear the testimonies!

58 South Apparel 58 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Brown County Playhouse 812-988-8440 • fiftyeightsouth@gmail.com

A family-friendly pizza place PIZZA • SALADS • CALZONES

140 W. Main Street • (812) 988-8800 In the heart of Nashville by the Village Green area at the intersection of Main and Jefferson Streets.

Dine-In or Carry-Out

Sun.–Thurs. 11am–9:00pm; Fri. & Sat. 11am–10:00pm

We appreciate our loyal customers!

Our market fresh product selections are the result of your requests.

This season we display: Flags & Gazing Balls, Dog & Cat themed items, Tervis Tumblers, Swan Creek, Woodstock Chimes, Melissa & Doug, Stony Creek Lighted Vases, Simply Southern T’s & Ivory Ella, Lizzie James and Katie Lofton, Our Favorite Handcrafted Jewelry

Located in the heart of downtown Nashville next to Out of The Ordinary and across from the Brown County Playhouse

Did we mention all the hats, scarves, and fashion jewelry?

Rhonda Kay’s 69 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN 812-988-2050 • rhondakays@msn.com

40 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Hotel & Conference Center Located across from the NEW Brown County Music Center

Open Daily at 11 a.m.

Open Year-Round for Lunch & Dinner

Fresh made to order starters, salads, sandwiches and house specialties

Brown County’s only “Husband Day Care” Back Door Alley Entrance

Guinness on tap • Full bar • Specialty drinks • Bloody Mary • Islander • Margarita

Full menu available in Bar • Large TV Out of the Ordinary Restaurant & Hickory Sports Bar

61 South Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN Across the street from the Brown County Playhouse

(812) 200-1999 •

OutOfTheOrdinaryRestaurant

Balcony Rooms Coming in 2021:

N Outdoo a ty a a

92 w franklin st • nashville, in • 812.988.0336

sunday 12-4, tuesday—saturday 11-5, Tuesday evening 6:30-8:30 come see us in antique alley, next to brown county pottery online store: claypurl.com

Conference facility–up to 500 560 State Road 46 East, Nashville, IN 812-988-2284 • SeasonsLodge.com March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 41

Old State Bank Building

Frank M. Hohenberger photos courtesy The Lilly Library, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana

except me, I opened it myself. I’ve owned the building almost 29 years, but I’ve never known the history. The time capsule has all this information,” she said.

Returning the building back to its original condition is taking longer than expected, made more difficult by the ongoing COVID pandemic.

By August, Hoff had located a specialty firm called Precast Solutions, of Whitestown, Indiana, to make new concrete blocks to look like the original ones. The company used blocks from the old building to make forms to cast new, identical blocks.

According to the 1995 Brown County Interim Report, the building was made of “rusticated beveled edge concrete blocks with a rock-face treatment” and has “a high, stepped parapet façade” with “State Bank” carved on a tablet above the entrance.

Although the report refers to it as “Farmer’s Trust Bank,” information recovered from the time capsule referred to it as “Nashville State Bank.”

When they were tearing down the wall blockby-block, they found a second time capsule. It was packed with letters and other items from 1905, the year of construction.

Continued on 44

T

he former State Bank building on East Main Street, just east of the courthouse, is one of those iconic Nashville profiles that have been with us for more than a century.

Last April, when a car crashed into the historic facade, destroying the door and damaging the front walls, local history buffs and longtime residents worried that the unique look of the building would disappear from Nashville’s horizon.

For the building’s owner, Linda Hoff, it was an emotional blow and the beginning of a year-long journey of discovery. She would rebuild—better than it was before —and in the process, discover some answers to questions.

A time capsule was found in a corner of the building. “It was a Mason jar. No one has seen it

42 Our Brown County March/April 2021

~by Jeff Tryon

courtesy photo

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 43

BANK BUILDING continued from 42 In October, skids of the custom-made blocks were delivered to the site, but construction could not begin right away because workers discovered there was no footer to support the wall. Hoff learned that back in 1905 the builders had placed the block directly on the ground.

After a reinforced-concrete footer was poured, restoration was further delayed by a shortage of corner blocks. The crew finally was able to start laying the 100-pound blocks on the first of December and they were finished just sixteen days later.

There is still more work to be done.

Craftsmen will plaster walls and ceilings, replace interior woodwork, and repair the floors.

Some electrical work must also be completed.

Local custom furniture and cabinetry builder Darrin Kean is recreating the wooden door and transom. Hoff will return the large plate glass window that was there when she bought the building in 1993. The gargoyle light fixtures will be re-attached, and the “State Bank” carving will be recreated.

Farmhouse

Hoff shared a few details from the time capsules.

“It was established in January of 1905 and opened July 17, 1905,” she said. “A story in the old paper stated that the Nashville State Bank was being built with concrete and William M. Waltman was the VicePresident of the bank.” The jars contained lists of the current local officials and how many schoolhouses were in the county at the time. Hoff hopes to reveal the complete contents of her historic finds to the public during a Victorian themed celebration some time after the building has been completely restored.

Over the years, the notable building has been a U.S. Post Office, a realty office, a candy and gift store, a dress shop, an antique store, a scooter and wheelchair rental store, and more recently a plant store. It is probably best remembered as the jewelry store, Touch of Silver and Gold, located there for 24 years before moving across the street.

Hoff operates the State Bank Arts Affair in the rear of the building and rents out the front spaces. She hopes to find the right tenant for the restored space as soon as the project is completed. 

Farmhouse Cafe ...a country drive to an unexpected dining pleasure · LUNCH ·

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Next to Artist Colony Inn, Back-to-Back Complex

thurs.–mon. 11 to 5 (Closed Tue. & Wed.) 812-988-7305

LUNCH: DAILY · 11–4 PM DINNER: TUESDAY–SATURDAY · 5–8 PM

farmhousecafeandtearoom.com · Like us on 44 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Fashion Apparel •Jewelry and Purses 59 East Main Street, Suite B • Nashville, IN • 812-988-8707

Foxfire

Gift & Home • Gifts and Home Decor • Memoriam Gifts • Swan Creek Candles • Kitchen Accessories • Baby Gifts • Holiday Decor • Garden Decor 59 East Main Street, Suite A • Nashville, IN • 812-988-7388 March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 45

Williamson Hamblen, first violin maker in Brown County (1910). photos courtesy of Brown County Historical Society/ Rhonda Dunn

T

he centers of Brown County life at the turn of the last century were the villages and crossroads that were webbed together with deeply rutted muddy roads. Travel and material goods were limited to what could be carried by horseback, busker wagon, or carriage. The pioneer way of life continued after other counties adopted new ways, with folks “makin’ do or doin’ without.”

But the early 1900s brought rapid changes. In 1905, the Illinois Central Railroad built a line from Indianapolis to Effingham, Illinois with the line running through Morgantown and across the southwest corner of Jackson Township. With Helmsburg as the main station; a daily schedule of two train runs from Indianapolis and two from Effingham brought mail and freight, as well as passengers eager to take in the unspoiled landscape and country air.

The colony of fine artists rooted itself in Brown County and then blossomed at this time. Cars first appeared in Nashville in 1913, and better roads soon followed. Hard-surfaced State Road 135 north from Nashville to Morgantown was built. State Road 46 connecting to Bloomington was vastly improved and brought many curious Indiana

46 Our Brown County March/April 2021

University students to the county.

In the Tool Room of Nashville’s Pioneer Village is a display case containing a homemade musical instrument that was fashioned from a cigar box. It was created

by Louis Henderson of Brown County a bit more than a century ago. The curator for the Brown County Historical Society’s collections, Barbara Livesey, notes that the collection catalog has it listed as a banjo, but that Louis himself played it with a bow. She concludes: “Therefore, it’s an oddshaped fiddle.”

It is another example of early Brown Countians “makin’ do or doin’ without.” Being true to their Appalachian forebears, they would not do without music.

An outstanding player and maker of violins/fiddles was Williamson Hamblen. He was born in Lee County, Virginia on October 3, 1846, and moved to Brown County with his parents in 1857. Since the age of 6, he taught himself to play the violin.

Though his formal schooling was thin at best, his musical ability was widely-known, and he was sought after to play at events. When he was 37 years old, Hamblen began making violins. Shortly before his death he built the instrument he considered his masterpiece.

Fife and drum corps were part of the musical heritage of Brown County, performing for political campaigns and parades. Newspaper records have cornet bands organized in

Deep Musical Roots almost every community, with bands from Needmore, Nashville, Helmsburg, Pikes Peak, and Trevlac playing for Old Soldiers Reunions, Old Settlers Reunions, and parades. Newspapers have accounts of fiddling contests being sure crowd draws at these events. Cash prizes and the notoriety of being the best fiddler around attracted many musicians for a rousing, toe-tapping show.

Square dances were an important component of Brown County social life during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Noted in Dillon Bustin’s If You Don’t Outdie Me, Allie Ferguson and Mollie Lucas reminisced about weekly dances held in Nashville during their youths.

In February 1926, Hamblen Township musicians Mary and Vincent Beisel, known to their friends as Diner and Doc, were photographed by Frank Hohenberger with their fiddle and guitar. The Beisels headed a contingent of musicians and dancers known as the “Brown County Fiddlers” and recreated a Brown County backwoods barn dance at the Palace Theatre in Indianapolis.

They were so well received in Indianapolis that they were booked on a tour of the midwestern vaudeville

~by Julia Pearson

Pikes Peak Cornet Band. (1907).

Brown County Fiddlers first string band (1926).

circuit in a new act called “Brown County vs. Broadway.” Oddy Green, who was known for his ability to play “Pop Goes the Weasel” while holding his fiddle behind his back, was part of this act.

Continued on 48

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 47

MUSICAL ROOTS continued from 47 Hohenberger recorded in his diary that Ruth Bond told him they had better musicians in Helmsburg. Hohenberger himself accompanied Doc Winter to the Harry W. Heckman cabin where there was a “blowout” dance with 150 in attendance, people he referred to as a “lot of natives—one family of 33 children and grandchildren.” A native fiddler with one wooden leg, Mrs. Anderson played, “keeping time with her peg.”

Throughout the county, the living room rug in many homes was rolled up for dancing come Saturday nights and there were ample musicians among the neighbors to provide the tunes and calling. In the 1930s and 1940s commercial dance halls opened in and around Brown County featuring music from local bands. The Weed Patch String Band were regular players at the Saturday night dances at the Helmsburg Dance Hall.

In 1939, a network of old-time musicians named themselves the Van Buren String Busters. The original group had just four members: local fiddler Louis Henderson with Lonzie Gredy, Faun Clark, and Jack Hendricks. A couple years later, the group was led by Doc Beauchamp. During the World War II years,

Hills O’ Brown Realty

Cigarbox banjo/fiddle at the Brown County History Center.

Beauchamp’s square dances were called to the accompaniment of Louis Henderson, fiddler; Wilma Anthony Spiker, banjo; and Hesper “Hep” Anthony Beauchamp, guitar.

The traditions grounded by these local musical artists laid a bedrock foundation for the Brown County Jamboree and Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Festivals that grew after them. The Brown County Jamboree was a live weekly country music show between April and November. It was purchased in 1951 by the father of bluegrass, Bill Monroe, and is now widely recognized as the oldest continuously running bluegrass festival worldwide. Bean Blossom: The Brown County Jamboree and Bill Monroe’s Bluegrass Festivals by Thomas A. Adler is recommended for music lovers and lovers of Brown County. 

Kathryn Richardson Branch Manager 812-327-7462

Debbie Fleetwood Broker 812-327-6862

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Bob Kirlin Broker 812-720-0222

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Annette Hardin Broker 812-371-2048

Real Estate Activity Continues and We are still actively seeking new LISTINGS!

Call your agent above TODAY! 48 Our Brown County March/April 2021

Brown County Getaways

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BROWN COUNTY

Hometown Proud Local Grocery Store Serving Beautiful Brown County Since 1975!

• Certified Angus Beef • Large Beer and Wine Sections • Organic Grocery • Dairy • Picnic Supplies • Produce • Full Service Bakery/Deli • Frozen • Custom Cake Decorating • Wine • Custom Deli Trays, Veggie Trays

text NA SHV

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Ever-Growing Selection of Gluten-Free Products

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK TO GET THE WEEKLY AD Brown County IGA

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30 Hawthorne Dr. • Nashville • East SR 46 at light • 812-988-4546 March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 49

GRANDPA JEFF’S

Trail Rides Relax on a journey with Grandpa Jeff. ff.

Take in the scenery and wildlife.

No two rides will ever be the same —sunny summer days, fall colors, winter snowfalls, spring blossoms.

Trail Rides, Pony Rides, Hay Rides Cattle Drives, and Custom Excursions

At least one hour notice.

Trail Ride Reservations can be made by phone, e-mail, or through our website.

Grandpa Jeff personally trained our horses to take exceptional care of your family and friends of all ages.

call or text www.GrandpaJeffsTrailRides.com cell (812)272-0702 info@GrandpaJeffsTrailRides.com 5889 S. Skinner Rd. Morgantown, Indiana

Your Headquarters for the Great Outdoors CAMPING SUPPLIES: Tents, Camping Lights, Sleeping Bags, Grills, Fire Starters, Coleman Heaters & Lanterns, Cooking Utensils • Fishing Tackle • Horse Tack • RV Replacement Parts • Bee Keeping Supplies • Maple Syrup Supplies • Pet & Livestock Food • Antiques We Fill Propane Tanks

WE SELL & DELIVER BULK MULCH & TOPSOIL Salt Creek Plaza • Nashville (812) 988-8888 • www.BearHardware.com Mon.–Sat. 7:30am–7:00pm • Sun. 10:00am–4:00pm

50 Our Brown County March/April 2021

S

ince 2003, Our Brown County has been publishing a semi-regular feature called “The Sampler,” stories about eating out in Nashville and Brown County.

Now, over 50 of those stories have been gathered up in a new anthology, “The Restaurant Sampler Collection: Restaurant reviews from Nashville and Brown County, Indiana,” available on Amazon.com.

The dining experiences described by author Jeff Tryon include trips to the restaurants along the main drag of Nashville like the Nashville House, Hobnob Corner, Artist’s Colony Inn, and Brown County Inn, and to the ones off the beaten path such as Brownie’s in Bean Blossom, the 19th Hole at the Salt Creek Golf Course, the Farmhouse Café, and the Gatesville General Store.

Along the way, the reader gets a feel for the ambience, glimpses of the décor and, most importantly, finds an informed discussion of the menu, the service, and how the food turned out.

It provides a good read for anyone interested in Brown County, dining out, or restaurants in general.

Tryon readily admits that the whole thing was “an excuse to eat out with my wife and whoever else I can wrangle into coming with me on these assignments, usually members of my family. I hope everyone will enjoy these little vignettes of all the various places we can eat out in Brown County.”

Tryon can also be heard offering occasional commentary on WFHB’s monthly radio program “The Brown County Hour.” 

Arts Village Brown County ART VENUE

Brown County State Park Added to the National Register

Every item in our store is

HANDMADE IN NASHVILLE Specializing in:

• Live Edge Hardwood Benches • Tables • Sun Catchers • Cutting Boards • Serving Trays Many other beautiful items Digitally Carved Signage Custom Work Available Customized Wedding Gifts

B

Hand-poured Candles Made in our store 59 East Main Street (Old School Way Alley) Nashville, IN

EST 1927

Brown County’s Most Historic Restaurant Serving our famous fried biscuits and apple butter, fried chicken and other traditional favorites all made in our own kitchen from scratch.

Come check out our Old Country Store, beautiful new patio, expanded menu and HOHENBERGER BAR 15 South Van Buren Street 812-988-4554 www.nashvillehousebc.com

courtesy DNR

rown County State Park’s recent addition to the National Register of Historic Places makes it the state’s largest historic district.

Listing as a historic district recognizes an area that has a high degree of historical integrity in its buildings, structures, and landscapes. To be eligible, a district is required to have been associated with events, developments, or people that were important in the history of the state or country. In addition, districts on the National Register must be at least 50 years old and look much the way they did in the past.

The state park first opened in 1929. In the park’s early years, with growing interest from the public, several facilities were developed, including Abe Martin Lodge and overnight cabins. A large portion of the facilities work done shortly thereafter came via the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), whose members built many of the other existing buildings, shelters, roads, vistas, trails, and Ogle Lake, as well as the west lookout tower.

CCC Veterans Company 1557 started its work in the park in 1934, planting forests of trees to help address the severe erosion on hillsides that had been cleared by settlers for timber years before the land was acquired by the state.

Now, with nearly 16,000 acres, Brown County State Park is the largest state park in Indiana and one of the most popular.

Researchers for the nomination documented nearly 70 buildings, sites, and structures that contribute to the park’s historical significance. 

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 51

Visit

Morgantown

A Woodland Castle tle

10 miles north of Nashville on scenic State Road 135 A 3 bedroom 2.5 bath custom cabin.

Hiking trails, mountain biking trails, hot tub, outdoor games, outdoor seating, fire pit, and a charcoal grill allow for nature pursuits of all energy levels. Bring your fishing gear so you can reel them in at the shared catch and release pond.

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75 W. Washington St., Morgantown, IN 46160

www.TheClockConnection.com Like us on Facebook Open Tue-Fri 11-5pm & Sat 10-2pm Closed Sun & Mon 812-597-5414 . houseofclocks@att.net

ANTIQUES CO-OP 129 W. Washington St. • Morgantown, IN 46160 (In the old hardware store building)

Country Primitives Advertising Antique Garden Old Paint Early Smalls Open 6 Days (Closed Mon.)

Furniture, Art Architectural Elements Pottery The Odd and Unusual and A General Line Like us on Facebook

(812) 597-4530

Layaway Available

ART Beyond Crayons Creativity beyond the classroom Pick your • Art Lessons for All Ages Palette: • Group Painting Parties

• Birthday Paint Parties • Home Schooled Instruction

Judy D. Wells • owner, K–12 Licensed Educator • judydenisewells@gmail.com 59 S. Marion St. • Morgantown, IN • (317) 403-7147 Flexible hours including weekends and evenings

52 Our Brown County March/April 2021

* Log Cabins * Game Rooms * Hot Tubs * Private Pools * * Pet Friendly * * Lake Fronts *

Call, Book Online, or Stop in!

812.988.6554 • 30 Washington St. • Nashville, IN Like and Follow Us! MoonDanceVacationHomes.com

Nashville, Indiana’s #1 Fun Attraction

COPPERHEAD CREEK

GEM MINE Pan for Gems Fossils Arrowheads

Fun and Educational for All Ages

BROWN COUNTY

ROCK and FOSSIL SHOP

5000 lbs. of NEW Beautiful & Unique Specimens for 2021

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Brown County Karen Marshall 812-345-7461

Michael Rebman 812-988-4447

“A Lil’ Taste of Heaven” SERVING BREAKFAST AND LUNCH

Featuring Fabulous:

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Fresh In-Store Donuts “Smack Dab in the Heart of the Village” Nashville, Indiana

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Broasted Chicken

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812-988-1822

The Iris Garden rests comfortably in the heart of the village of Nashville.

Simply walk out of your door to explore the wonderful shops, restaurants, wineries, and breweries without having to drive anywhere.

Nashville BP State Roads 46 & 135 270 S. Van Buren St. in Nashville

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 53

Stories, Gossip, and Tall Tales ~by Mark Blackwell

B

rown County has a tradition of oral culture otherwise known as stories, lies, gossip, and tall tales. Way before storytelling was documented by Frank Hohenberger’s famous photograph of the Liar’s Bench; storytelling was a way of disseminating the news and a means of entertainment.

A good portion of Brown County conversations begin with, “Did I ever tell you about…” or “Didja hear about…” as in, “Didja hear about Cletus? He got bit by a rattler. It

54 Our Brown County March/April 2021

was pretty sad.” To which the soon-tobe recipient of the punchline would reply, “What happened? Did he die?” The bestower of the report then says, “No, Cletus survived but it killed the snake.”

Not just current events and gossip was communicated orally, local history was, too. I guess you could say there are two histories of Brown County.

You can find history in books like A History of the Counties of Morgan, Monroe and Brown, Indiana. Those accounts of the past tend to be kind of dry. The proper history books tell you about the first settlers and when Nashville (Jacksonburg) was first platted out. They tell about who the founding fathers were (they don’t get much into the founding mothers) and who was on the tax rolls.

The history I like comes down through generations of storytellers. That’s where the legends of Booger Holler and Stone Head and stories about Bear Wallow come from.

But it wasn’t just history and happenings that folks talked about—they talked about the weather, too.

As I sit here writing this little essay, I am snowed-in from one of the bigger winter storms of recent memory. This is the kind of snow that gets so deep you don’t want to let your dog out to pee.

He might sink in a drift and you run the risk of not finding him until spring, along with your lawn mower, leaf rake and snow shovel.

I am reminded of a story I heard somewhere or another about a Brown County blizzard that happened way back in the dim mists of history. In fact, it

happened so long ago that it didn’t get written down, at least until now.

What I remember is how things was sorta mild that winter right up ‘til a tremendous freeze came on all of a sudden. Nobody knows how cold it really got because thermometers were all busted by the mercury dropping so fast that they went right through the little glass ball at their bottoms. It was so cold that if you took a lantern outside the flame would freeze. It was so cold that people couldn’t carry on conversations because when they spoke the words froze up in midair before they could get heard. Then came the snow.

It was a noisy storm because the snowflakes, whipped up by a fierce gale, were making high pitched crackling sounds slamming into each other. The snow was so thick coming down that it caused a white-out of proportions not seen again to this day. The visibility was down to about three inches in front of your face. It was so bad that the birds—that weren’t just treading air—were being knocked out from being blown into trees. It went on for days.

Still the blizzard didn’t let up. The snow load got so thick that it filled the hollers clear up to the ridge tops. After some time Brown County was as flat as a billiard table. If you had snowshoes, you could’ve walked clear across the county on the level.

I heard there was a holler way back in the country that froze so deep and so solid that it took more than a few years to thaw out.

And when it finally did, they found a wooly mammoth hibernating at the bottom.

I won’t swear to the absolute veracity of the account. It might be that some of the particulars could have been somewhat understated. I wasn’t on hand for the event but that’s the way I heard it.

Next time you have some time on your hands and you find yourself over by the courthouse, you might just sidle up to one of the fellers sittin’ on the bench and ask ‘em, “What’s the news in Brown County?”

I expect you’ll get a story. 

COMMON GROUNDS COFFEE BAR It’s like a coffee shop in a living room (with things to amuse you)

Hot, Cold & Frozen Drinks • Selection of Teas Froothies (our fruit smoothies) Famous for Cheesy Eggs & Toast • Pastries • Quiche 66 N. Van Buren, Nashville (Molly’s Lane behind the red door) Opens 8:00 am M-Sat; 9:00 am Sun (Closed Wed) 812-988-6449

201 N. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN Private Bedroom with King Bed Dining Area and Fully Equipped Kitchenette Living Room with Queen Sofa Sleeper • Private Porch/Balcony Fireplaces and Whirlpool Baths Available

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www.hiddenvalleyinn.net

Celebrating 20 Years

FREE in-store demos!

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Customized

• Anklets • Bracelets • Necklaces OFFLRY E Watches JEW Sterling Silver Rings 1000’s of Pendants

Blue building in Antique Alley S. Jefferson St. • Nashville, IN March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 55

INFO PAGES

• Individual Income and Business Taxes • Business Set Up • Business Financial Statements • Payroll Preparation and Payroll Taxes

Locally owned since 2010 138 S. Jefferson St. Suite C • P.O. Box 953 Nashville, IN 47448

ACCOUNTING / TAX PREP

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56 Our Brown County • March/April 2021

Reach thousands of readers for just $70 an issue (6 a year)

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Plum Creek Antiques Open-Air Market Bean Blossom • Fruit Jars • Garden Art • Furniture • Iron Things, • Lots of Junk and more 5 minutes north of Nashville (intersection of SR 135 & SR 45) (812) 988-6268

$2 Bag • Salt Creek Plaza • Nashville Mon.–Sat. 7:30 am–7:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am–4:00 pm

Tax Preparation, Tax Planning, Bookkeeping, and Payroll

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Mosaic Tables and Small Paintings Available at Spears Pottery in Nashville, IN (On South Van Buren Street next to the Nashville House)

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INFO PAGES

March/April 2021 • Our Brown County 57 Continued on 58

Indiana Seamless Free Estimates

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Continued from 57

INFO PAGES

58 Our Brown County • March/April 2021

TEAM

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LANDSCAPING

We Can Do It All!

Complete Landscaping/ Design Services

BOATS • TRUCKS • MURALS • LOGO DESIGN •

• HOMES • BANNERS • BILLBOARDS • STORE FRONTS

SIGNS THAT DELIVER: Digital Print & Vinyl to Hand Lettered, Carved & Gilded

812-822-2933 • RamblinDogDesign@gmail.com

BROWN COUNTY YMCA

BUY 1 GUEST PASS, GET 1 FREE 1 per person, expires 12/31/21

Swimming Pool Fitness Center Gymnasium Exercise Classes

Personal Training Swim Lessons Day Camp Climbing Wall

812-988-9622 • www.browncountyymca.org

YOUR CATEGORY

WELLNESS

Open at 5:30 a.m. Mon.–Fri.

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Licensed Plumbing Contractor since 1981 Bonded • Insured #CO89000011

Repair, Remodel, Pump Service, Water Conditioning, Drain Cleaning, Water Heaters

812-988-0248 • Nashville, IN THRIFT • CONSIGN • AUCTION

SIGN MAKER

All Types of SIGNS by CHRIS A. SHUSTER

Associate Broker Cell: 812-360-3889 • shaht@mibor.net

812-988-4485 • www.MargAndBrendaTeam.com

helmsburgsawmill@gmail.com • facebook.com/helmsburgsawmillinc

• Mulching - Seeding NEED HELP? • Weeding - Pruning • Tree / Shrub Planting • Fences - Walkways • Retaining Walls • Mowing / Trimming (812) 988-7232 • Flower / Herb Beds

Brenda Longtin CSSS, CDPR

BIDDERS JUNCTION

Thrift & Consignment Shop and Auction House Includes: thrift store items, handmade goods, jewelry, books, records, movies, housewares, clothing, primitive, unique and collectible treasures, pre-owned and antique furniture

Auction House accepting consignment items for sell at auction.

Currently online auctions. Live outdoor ones next spring.

4359 State Road 46 East • Nashville (Gnaw Bone) Wednesday – Sunday • 812-636-5003

Your Ad Can Appear Here

Reach thousands of readers for just $70 an issue (6 a year)

(discounts for multiple issues)

Contact Cindy at ourbrown@bluemarble.net or call 812-988-8807

nashville Spice c o.

OVER 450 SPICES, RUBS & BLENDS Gourmet Jams & Sauces · Mustards · Hot Sauces Artisan Salts & Sugars · Beekman 1802 · Kitchen Gifts & Accessories

NashvilleSpiceCompany.com 227 S. Van Buren Street · Nashville, IN · In Coachlight Square 812.200.1069