The Fascinating History of Carmel, Indiana

Carmel, Indiana is 14 miles north of Indianapolis and part of the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Learn about its rich history from National Candy Day to Bill McShane's nickname.

The Fascinating History of Carmel, Indiana

Carmel, Indiana, located in Hamilton County, is 14 miles north of Indianapolis and part of the Indianapolis metropolitan area. It was established in 1846 when Indiana already had a post office called Bethlehem. The city was originally known as Bethlehem, but the name was changed to Carmel due to the already existing post office. The city of Carmel has a rich history that dates back to the McShane property and its growth as a travel stop on the road to Indianapolis.

Whether you're a longtime resident or just a visitor, Carmel feels way too charming to be a big city. The city's small-town feel makes it easy to form meaningful, lasting friendships.

Join us in studio for a fascinating look at Carmel's history with historian Katherine Dill, executive director of the Carmel Clay Historical Society; and lifelong Carmel residents Nancy Childs and Karla Katterhenry.

History of Carmel

Carmel is a city in southwestern Hamilton County, adjacent to Indianapolis. Its boundaries include Boone County (Zionsville), to the west, and White River to the east. Its center is 15 miles north of Indianapolis.

The population of Carmel has grown rapidly over the past few decades and is expected to continue growing. Many factors have contributed to this growth, including our highly rated schools, safe neighborhoods and proximity to employment opportunities in Indianapolis.

Our government has responded by providing more police and fire services, expanding roads and building the Civic Square at South Range Line Road. This project consolidated all city and township services into one location.

Over the years, we have also added many roundabouts to our city, all of which are designed to improve traffic safety and aesthetics. Some of these roundabouts have been decorated with art, such as the one at City Center Drive and Third Avenue SW near the Palladium.

History of the Fire Department

One of the most fascinating things about Carmel is that firefighting history has a home here. At the Carmel Fire Buffs Museum on 210 First Avenue SW, visitors can learn about the history of the fire service in Hamilton County through exhibits such as classic fire trucks and other equipment from the 1920s to 1960s.

The Carmel Fire Department and Carmel Police Department both operate from a single location in Civic Square on South Range Line Road. This helps to address the growing needs of residents and business in Carmel by combining city services into one facility.

Chief David Haboush and Division Chief of Community Relations John Moriarty recently talked about the Safe Haven Baby Box that was installed at Station #45 in December of 2018. This device is a great tool for preventing child abductions because it can be used to safely surrender babies.

Women’s History Month is coming to a close and the women of the Carmel Fire Department are showing that they are ready to break the glass ceiling. This is an incredible accomplishment and we appreciate them all for their hard work!

History of the City of Carmel

Carmel Clay is a great place to live, work and play. With a rich heritage and a commitment to excellence, it’s no wonder people love it here.

During the American Bicentennial in 1976, a group of local residents formed the Carmel Clay Historical Society to gather historical information about their town and county. Located in the historic 1883 Monon Depot, the society has been able to preserve much of the history of Carmel Clay through a variety of projects.

One of the most important was the development of the City Center Redevelopment Area plan in 1998. This plan was designed to create a community hub and a gathering spot for people in Carmel, both residents and visitors.

As part of the redevelopment, City Center has become home to many of Carmel’s attractions, restaurants and shops. Several annual events and festivals also have helped boost tourism in Carmel. The City has also invested in parks and recreational facilities to attract new residents and business to the city.

History of the Town of Bethlehem

The town of Bethlehem, originally known as “Bethlehem in Cass County,” was founded in 1837 by Daniel Warren. Initially, it was a small farming town, but by 1976, it was incorporated and given city status.

During the early years of Bethlehem, there were many trials and tribulations experienced by the pioneers. Despite this, they persevered and eventually built a community that is still growing today.

One of the oldest and most important churches in the town is the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. This church was founded in 1879 by a group of Swedish immigrants.

The church is located at 136th and Olio Road of U.S. In 1999, the church moved to its present location and continues to serve the local community. It also hosts many events throughout the year. In addition, the church has a food bank and provides support for many local charities. The church is a part of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Currently, there are a total of 693 members in the congregation also School students are key part of the history in the 20th century, there is also a Gallery of Indiana State in northwest Indiana, and is part of Carmel Art Association, across Carmel Mission and Indiana Wesleyan University.

It was a small community that was known for its many shade trees. The arrival of the railroad brought big changes to Carmel and it soon became a leading supplier of coal, cement, tile, harnesses and other products through the Carmel Supply Company in the 1920s to 1940s. Sports journalists gave Bill McShane, a local athlete, several nicknames such as Carmel Meteor, Blazing Bill, Bullet Bill and Carmel's One-Man Track Team. However, the one that stuck was the House Carmel Comet and carmel Valley in the United States, near Indiana University, oposite to San Francisco, near Pacific Grove.

He raced for three coaches in four years and trained on grass because Carmel didn't have a track. In honor of National Candy Day on Wednesday, the good people at Werther's Original Caramels convinced Carmel officials to change the name of the city for 24 hours to Caramel. They also invited candy lovers to enjoy fun, games and candy candy on Wednesday. Over the past two months, Carmel residents have raised money for aid to Ukraine and sent medical supplies abroad through a non-profit organization called Indiana Supports Ukraine.

In August, they hope to organize a Ukrainian festival with food, dance and music together with the organization Indiana Supports Ukraine. As Carmel continues to evolve, it's important to pause and appreciate where the city comes from and honor its humble origins.


It was a small community that was known for its many shade trees. The arrival of the railroad brought big changes to Carmel and it soon became a leading supplier of coal, cement, tile, harnesses and other products through the Carmel Supply Company in the 1920s to 1940s. Sports journalists gave Bill McShane, a local athlete, several nicknames such as Carmel Meteor, Blazing Bill, Bullet Bill and Carmel's One-Man Track Team. However, the one that stuck was the Carmel Comet.


He raced for three coaches in four years and trained on grass because Carmel didn't have a track. In honor of National Candy Day on Wednesday, the good people at Werther's Original Caramels convinced Carmel officials to change the name of the city for 24 hours to Caramel. They also invited candy lovers to enjoy fun, games and candy candy on Wednesday. Over the past two months, Carmel residents have raised money for aid to Ukraine and sent medical supplies abroad through a non-profit organization called Indiana Supports Ukraine.


In August, they hope to organize a Ukrainian festival with food, dance and music together with the organization Indiana Supports Ukraine. As Carmel continues to evolve, it's important to pause and appreciate where the city comes from and honor its humble origins.


Lorene Batteiger
Lorene Batteiger

Unapologetic web scholar. Lifelong zombie ninja. Certified travel evangelist. General pizza aficionado. Devoted beer ninja. Unapologetic travel advocate.

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