Indiana is a state rich with history, culture, and family values. All of these traits are evident in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This city of 220,000 residents dates back to the late 1700’s, when President George Washington ordered General “Mad” Anthony Wayne to overthrow the Indian stronghold of Miamitown. Chief Little Turtle and Blue Jacket had previously defeated two respected generals. The last of which, General Arthur St. Clair, suggested that building forts along the way would provide the men with better protection. General Wayne and President Washington agreed. General Wayne’s eventual success can be attributed to General St. Clair’s revelations. After the defeat of Chief Little Turtle and Blue Jacket, Fort Wayne was erected to provide the soldiers with a safe haven. The first fort was barely able to sustain the men through the rough winter. With a minimal amount of furniture and supplies, they managed to survive.
As a result of their struggle, three separate structures, which were built under the same name of Fort Wayne, were constructed. Therefore, the Indiana city was born, complete with businesses, furniture stores, and schools. The area now embraces its past, and celebrates the heroes that made this Indiana city possible. Chief Little and Blue Jacket are both remembered with statues, as well as memorials, which honor their heritage. In addition, Chief Menominee has received a monument in his name, which commemorates his life and remembers his passing during the Trail of Death. Although the original structure has been moved, Fort Wayne’s location is preserved with memorial markers, as well as a stone well. Today, the city boasts a thriving population and family friendly atmosphere that has earned it numerous awards. Fort Wayne has been named both the All-American City and the City of Livability, which are two very distinguished titles.
Fort Wayne is the perfect spot to take your family on vacation, and select a new furniture piece to bring home. The beautiful scenery, rich history, and friendly atmosphere are matched only by the unique shopping available, such as exquisite furniture stores. Your little ones will enjoy the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, The Lincoln Museum, and Science Central, Indiana’s “playground for the mind.” Afterward, you and your spouse can take part in grown-up activities, such as the Fort Wayne Museum of Art or shopping at one of Indiana’s enticing furniture stores. If this idea tickles your fancy, then you must check out Glenbrook Square. This venue is Indiana’s largest shopping venue with three department stores and 175 specialty shops selling everything from jewelry to furniture.
Indiana is home to many famous “Hoosiers”, like James Dean, Steve McQueen, David Letterman, Florence Henderson, and the legendary Larry Bird. In addition, the young ones will enjoy visiting the homeland of Johnny Appleseed, an often-told story about John Chapman and his desire to plant apple trees in a new territory. It is thought that he tried to provide a feeling of home to those that had struck out to inhabit an untamed world. Just like store bought furniture during this time, fruit trees were rare in this new territory. John Chapman planted his trees in and around Indiana and sold them for pennies or trade. Sadly, Johnny Appleseed passed away near Fort Wayne, Indiana after catching, what was known as “winter plague.”
The word “Hoosier”, the famous nickname of Indiana residents, has been used for over a century and a half, however its origins are a bit fuzzy. There are at least five different theories regarding its original meaning, but residents, wear their nickname proudly. While on your visit to Fort Wayne, you and your family might try asking some of the locals, what “Hoosier” represents. You can have fun figuring out what the overall consensus is. As you stop in at one of the Fort Wayne, Indiana shops, selling furniture or a restaurant for a bite to eat, ask the residents their opinion. You will probably here, some of the normal responses, but you might be surprised. Many people feel the nickname originates from a contractor, whose name was Hoosier and preferred to hire men from Indiana. There are also some more colorful stories about the Indiana rivermen, who transported merchandise, like furniture, up and down the river. These individuals were known for their fighting or “hushing” ability. Some people think the nickname is a derivative of their skills.
Regardless, your shopping trips will allow you to find many souvenirs to remember your visit to Fort Wayne, Indiana. You might even decide to bring back something different from this trip, such as furniture, instead of the usual “Hoosier” regalia. There are numerous antique stores in Fort Wayne, so the perfect way to remember your trip might be having a special furniture piece shipped home ahead of you. Unlike a t-shirt that will sit in the closet for years, a beautiful piece of furniture will remind you of your trip on a daily basis. The furniture can then be passed down for generations, as a way of sharing your trip to Fort Wayne, Indiana with your children and the more to come.
Rich with history and full of activities for the entire family, Fort Wayne, is the perfect vacation spot. The numerous museums will allow you to explore the cities past, and enjoy works of art from famous artists, such as Picasso. In addition, you can explore the many shopping centers in order to discover the perfect piece of furniture to take home. Fort Wayne lives up to its title of All American City. The antique furniture stores allow you to bring a bit of this city’s past home with you. When you use furniture that you purchased on your vacation, you can bring back the memories of your trip.
