A Little-Known Slice Of Indiana History Can Be Found In The Middle Of A Road

Anyone who knows even a little about Indiana knows that we’re steeped in some truly unique, off-the-wall history; we ARE more than just a bunch of corn, after all – we’re one of the oldest states in the US, and our history goes BACK. Way back. As a result, there are many amazing historical facts I could rattle through for hours (it’s fun, I promise – we should do that sometime). One of these facts involves one of the oddest roadside – er, roadcenter – stops in the world. This little-known slice of Hoosier history tells a fascinating tale, as long as you care to listen:

Sarah Stierch/Flickr

Although the town was originally platted in 1853, the township itself is much older - and as a result, the whole area is packed with history.

Sarah Stierch/Flickr

Take, for instance, one of the strangest places you'll ever see that, if you were to pass it one day without knowing it was there, you'd likely pass right by. It's not a roadSIDE attraction so much as in IN the road attraction... and it's not really an "attraction" at all.

Advertisement

Caleb Burdsall/Google Local

But up until the discovery of five extra bodies in there in 2016, this was simply known as the singular grave of Nancy Kerlin Barnett.

....and it's in the middle of the road. Literally.

Advertisement

Related Stories

Most People Don't Know That Much Of The Modern Vehicle Was Invented Right Here In Indiana

Numerous UFOs Were Sighted In Indiana Decades Ago And It's Among The Most Credible Sightings In History

The Little-Known Story Of River Otters In Indiana And How They're Making A Big Comeback

Google Earth

Here lies Nancy Kerlin Barnett, the wife of William Barnett (who, fun fact, was the great-great-great grandson of THE Pocahontas herself). The grave was actually above ground until 2016, when it was moved underground in the same spot.

Mario Faiman/Google Local

Her final wish was to be buried in her favorite place: up on the hill overlooking Sugar Creek, where she still lies today thanks to the moxie of her still-living descendants.

Michael Kappel/Flickr

He guarded the site, day in and day out, with a firearm, insistent that NOBODY would be touching - or moving - Ms. Barnett. Eventually, his wishes were honored, and the road was constructed AROUND Nancy's final resting place. I'd say that's fair.

In 2016, it was discovered that there were more people down there than just Nancy: the remains of six others, assumed to be relatives of hers, were buried there as well. Each body was carefully placed back underground on the same hill, and today, a marker memorializes them all.

Tom Gill/Flickr

If you’re planning to visit Franklin and need a place to stay, check out the offerings from our friends at Booking. If you thought this quirky slice of Indiana history was interesting, you might also love our offbeat attractions in Indiana road trip, too.