History

Salem, a mere clearing in the woods when settlers began the job of establishing a seat for the newly-formed Washington County, was to grow through the years as a center of industry, commerce, agriculture, education and a caring community that continues to provide a safe haven to thousands of residents who are proud to call it home.

When the first settlers arrived, they found themselves surrounded by dense forests, but the confluence of two streams -- now known as Brock Creek and Blue River -- was an attraction they could not pass. It was here, with an abundance of rolling land, raw materials, wildlife and water, that they decided to establish this new town.

William Lindley, a land surveyor who had already built a cabin just south of Blue River, hosted a group or men who were sent to pick a site for the town. His expertise helped them decide on the location of present day Salem.

While meeting with them and during discussion for a town name, Mrs. Lindley suggested Salem, as that had been the name of the Lindley’s hometown in North Carolina. Her suggestion was accepted.

In a short time word had spread about the new town. Pioneers crossed the Ohio River and made their way along buffalo and deer trails to the accumulation of cabins and sheds that were popping up around an early form of the present day town square.

Salem officially came to be in 1814 -- two years before Indiana became a state. It was here that local government ruled a county that included parts of Orange, Scott, Jackson and a corner of Lawrence counties. Later the county was reduced in land area to its present size