New Castle

For a small, seemingly ordinary east central Indiana town, big things have happened near, in, and to New Castle during its nearly 200-year history. From military generals on key battlefields of history to floor generals on Indiana's beloved basketball courts, it has made its mark. Consider that New Castle has been home to high-ranking Civil War, World War I, and modern-day military officials. One of the earliest automobile factories was built here, the iconic American Beauty Rose was grown here, and the collectible Hoosier kitchen cabinet was made here. Not one, but two Mr. Basketballs grew up in New Castle and generated sell-out crowds in what has been documented as the world's largest and finest high school gymnasium. Current US president Barack Obama, former US president Bill Clinton, former first lady Barbara Bush, and former US vice presidents Dan Quayle and Charles Fairbanks have all made headline-making visits here.