Greenwood, Indiana is located in Johnson County. Once a small community, it is now one of the largest cities in the county. Greenwood shares a border with Indianapolis, which means that it offers residents and visitors many wonderful modern attractions. With its natural areas, it also provides a reprieve from the faster pace of life in Indianapolis. Although Greenwood today is a vibrant and modern city, it started as much more rural area.
Greenwood's Origins
Greenwood traces its settlement history back to the early 1800s. However, it was inhabited before then by the Lenape, also called the "Delaware Indians." The Lenape lived peacefully in the area for many years, but their way of life was altered with the arrival of the first settlers. Upon arrival, the settlers established the Treaty of St. Mary's, which opened the door of opportunity for development in the central Indiana region where Greenwood is located. Unlike many areas of the country, which were settled by American immigrants, the first settlers to reach Greenwood were European-Americans. The first traces of a town started to appear shortly after the settlers' arrival. The area's inaugural house was a log cabin constructed by two men named John and Isaac Smock. The brothers, who were among the city's first inhabitants and were influential in its development, had the honor of having this new place named after them, even though the name was short-lived. For about five years after its foundation, the city was referred to either as "Smock's Settlement" or "Smocktown." In 1825, the town's name was changed, again temporarily, to "Greenfield." However, it was officially changed to "Greenwood" shortly after, when it was discovered that there was already a town called Greenfield in the same region. The city was officially incorporated in 1864.
Over time, the city's landscape shifted from agricultural and rural to more urbanized and developed. As with many towns and cities in the country, Greenwood's economy was stimulated largely by the arrival of the railroad. The railroad, which was completed by the late 1800s, connected Greenwood with towns and cities nearby and farther away. The railroad also brought more people and jobs to the area. One major employer was the Greenwood Franklin Company, followed later by JT Polk Canning, which canned and distributed vegetables sold across Indiana. Today, as evidenced by the fact that its town center belongs to the National Register of Historic Places, Greenwood has managed to honor its past while making way for the future. Although the original JT Polk Canning building is no longer in use as a factory, its interior now houses professional office buildings.
Greenwood's Events
Each year, Greenwood hosts a variety of fun, enriching, and engaging community events. Whether it's spending time with community members listening to good music, participating in the city's annual fireworks demonstration, or celebrating nature on Arbor Day, there is never a shortage of things to see.
Arbor Day Celebration
As Greenwood's town officials say, with the name of "Greenwood," it's to be expected that nature is part of the city's identity. To show its appreciation for the environment, the city hosts a community-wide celebration of Arbor Day each year. The city also gives away 1,000 trees on a first come, first-serve basis to encourage its residents to incorporate nature into their own backyards.
Summer Concerts
During the summer, many residents look forward to the start of the annual summer concert series. The concerts, which start in June, go through September. Each weekend, musicians take the stage to put on quality performances. Residents and visitors alike are welcome to enjoy the festivities, which includes family-friendly activities to make everyone feel included. The concerts take place in Craig Park.
Freedom Festival
If you want to see Indiana's "best fireworks," pay a visit to Greenwood's Freedom Festival. This festival draws more than 50,000 spectators each year. Held in late June, it celebrates America's history and independence with beer, craft vendors, food, and of course, fireworks.
Greenwood is clearly proud of the fact that nature is part of its identity. By keeping your yard in top shape, you can help the city honor its commitment to supporting the environment. Perhaps you just got a new tree from the Arbor Day celebration, and you're not sure how to start it. If so, let Lawn Love help. As your local lawn care experts, we are experienced with all aspects of lawn maintenance, and we'll get your property off to a healthy start. Contact us today.
