Lick Creek (African-American Settlement), Indiana, Orange County, is a fascinating ghost town with a rich history that speaks to the resilience and determination of its settlers. Once a thriving community, Lick Creek now reflects the challenges and triumphs of African-American settlers in Indiana. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: Orange County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 38.5670° N, 86.4730° W
Elevation: Approximately 650 feet
Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
Established: 1817
Disestablished: 1902
Comments: Lick Creek was one of the earliest African-American settlements in Indiana, founded by free African-Americans who migrated from North Carolina. The settlement was part of a broader movement of free African Americans seeking opportunities and freedom in the North during the early 19th century.
It was a vibrant community with churches, schools, and businesses that served its residents.
Remains: Today, very little remains of the original settlement. Some foundations and the Lick Creek African Methodist Episcopal Church cemetery are still visible, with a few gravestones. The area is now largely wooded, with trails that hint at its past.
Current Status: Lick Creek is considered a historical site, though it is not actively maintained as a tourist location. It remains a point of interest for historians and descendants of former residents.
Remarks: The story of Lick Creek is a poignant reminder of the African-American experience in the 19th century. It highlights the challenges faced by free African-Americans, even in Northern states, and their contributions to the development of these areas.
Efforts have been made to preserve the cemetery and educate the public about the settlement’s historical significance.
