Past Events in 2024 Front Porch Music Festival June 7th, 2024 Emma Clouse a museum volunteer and docent performed on our front porch for this June 2024 event. She was wonderful ! A Day at the Barn June 9th, 2024 Sid Davis welcomed the Historical Society members and guests to visit his barn. Mr. Davis is an avid collector of Hamilton County items and we were honored that he shared them with us. Mr. Davis shared some Forest Park pictures and an amusement ride. He told us of the many items that he had gotten from the ground using his metal detector. Some items date back to the Civil War. Prints from local artist Rodney Reveal of the Blue Ribbon Dairy and the Rainbow Roller Rink. The crowd of over 30 people were glad to see his collection and hear his stories.

Christmas at the Museum The Santa House on the Square is managed by the Hamilton County Historical Society. Kate Murray is full of Christmas Spirit all year long and works throughout the year on the Santa House and making it magical. If needed, you can contact her at: klward2004@yahoo.com And to all a good night........ May all your Christmas Wishes come true. History of Santa's House Dottie Ziess Young and Diane Zeiss Nevitt remember when their father Richard Zeiss built the first Santa House on the Courthouse Square in the 1960's. It was a cute little house that came apart for storage. In the late 1970's a second Santa house was built by Noblesville resident Don Roberts. The Hamilton County Historical Society and the staff from Hamilton County Building and Grounds; maintain and operate the Santa House each year.

Bicentennial Gallery Revisit 45+ Events Across Hamilton County's Nine Townships Historical photos provide a rich perspective of our history that words simply can't capture. During Hamilton County's Bicentennial, photographer Daniel Grose crisscrossed the county to photograph hundreds of people at Bicentennial happenings. From our opening celebration at The Palladium in Carmel to our closing Bicentennial Bash in December 2023, grant-funded programs welcomed an estimated 15,250 attendees.

Oral Histories Oral histories are a bread and butter resource for local historical societies like us. Here's how they help us connect: Capturing personal experiences : Local history isn't just about dates and big events. It's about the lives of everyday people. Oral histories capture the stories, experiences, and perspectives of those who lived through a particular time period in your local area. This can provide unique insights you wouldn't get from written documents. Preserving the past : Many historical events aren't well documented, especially those that impact marginalized communities. Oral histories ensure these stories are preserved for future generations. Filling in the gaps : Written records can be incomplete. Oral histories can fill in the gaps and provide context to existing documents. Local stories come alive : Oral histories make history relatable and engaging. Hearing firsthand accounts from community members makes the past more real for everyone. As we interview more families associated with the Hamilton County Historical Society and the Sheriff's Residence and Jail, we will add more stories here.

World's Fair 1934 Punch set for metal Look at us - Indianapolis Monthly Magazine this month ! Page 22 - Thank you for the mention Indianapolis Monthly!

Victorian Era Bedroom Set to approximately 1890 The Victorian age saw the end of the rope bed, and beds were now supported by wooden slats. Coil springs came about in 1865. Beds were made from metal or wood. They were usually high off the ground, due to cold drafts that were near the floor area. Beds were smaller then, not due to height or the myth that people slept sitting up, it just how they were made. Furniture changes over time as people’s taste changes. Reference: https://blogs.libraries.indiana.edu/wyliehouse/2018/01/18/sleep-tight-dont-let-the-bed-bugs-bite-a-myth-debunked/ This spinning wheel is an example of an early nineteenth century “walking wheel” made specifically for spinning wool.  The role of the spinning wheel in early homes is a big part of an often told story of the American past. When we see a spinning wheel, it raises images of a time when the country was young and life was very different from today. Most of us can imagine an image of a woman in an old-fashioned dress sitting by a cozy fire with her spinning wheel, spinning the yarn for her family’s clothes. Reference: https://huntington.org/educators/learning-resources/spotlight/object-story-spinning-wheel White Sewing Machines From the late 1800s until the 1950s, White machines were a common sight in countless homes across the US, particularly in the South. In 1858, Thomas White created the very first White models, which are still in use today. The young inventor, who was just twenty-two years old, found himself forced to sell his creations one by one in order to get the components necessary to build another! In a very short time, this enthusiastic young entrepreneur established the White Sewing Machine Company. Sears Roebuck & Co. and the firm created a partnership in the 1920s that led to the company being their only sewing machine manufacturer. Reference: https://cottonandcloud.com/white-sewing-machine/

FACTS What You Need to Know IS IT FREE? We are a donation-based organization, so we do not have an admission fee. IS THIS APPROPRIATE FOR KIDS? We have kids come in all the time! The exhibits and jail cells are appropriate for children. Some graffiti in the juvenile cell block is graphic, however, it has been blocked from view. IS THIS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? WHAT WILL I SEE HERE? The first floor of the museum is wheelchair/stroller accessible, with a ramp at the side door into the kitchen. However, the upper floors of jail cells and house are only accessible by stairs. We have so much to offer for all ages and all interests! Our building was the Sheriff's Residence and Jail for Hamilton County from 1876 to 1977. Check out our "Our History" page to see more details. PARKING Parking is free around the square with a three hour time limit during the week - Monday through Friday. If you will be in town for longer than three hours, we suggest you park in the Levinson parking garage, just one block south of our museum. Four hour free parking in there. https://www.cityofnoblesville.org/department/division.php?structureid=294 WHAT KINDS OF MATERIALS DO YOU HAVE IN YOUR COLLECTION? We have many items relating to Hamilton County history, including genealogy, veteran records, old photographs of locations throughout the county, school yearbooks, sheriff information, and more! We collect artifacts as well as paper documentation, and we have a library with many resources for you! Contact us with questions. FAQ: FAQ

Researching your home's history. Investigating the history of your home. The first place to start would be at the local library - Hamilton East Public Library. Visit the Crossroads Discovery Center [formerly the Indiana Room] Also helpful is to visit the Library of Congress site and look at their collection of Sanborn fire maps. About this Collection at the Library of Congress: The Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps Online Checklist provides a searchable database of the fire insurance maps published by the Sanborn Map Company housed in the collections of the Geography and Map Division. The online checklist is based upon the Library's 1981 publication Fire Insurance Maps in the Library of Congress and will be continually updated to reflect new acquisitions. Fire Insurance Maps in the Library of Congress. 1981 The Sanborn maps are arranged by state, then city and release data. The online checklist also contains links to existing digital images from our collection and will be updated as new images are added. Sanborn Keys & Colors Fire insurance maps are distinctive because of the sophisticated set of symbols that allows complex information to be conveyed clearly. In working with insurance maps, it is important to remember that they were made for a very specific use, and that although they are now valuable for a variety of purposes, the insurance industry dictated the selection of information to be mapped and the way that information was portrayed. Knowledge of the keys and colors is essential to proper interpretation of the information found in fire insurance maps. Baist Atlases, also produced for fire insurance purposes, include similar maps drawn on a smaller scale. Consult a local library or the Indiana State Library for original or microfilm copies. Check Indiana Memory for digitized maps. If there has already been research on your home in the past, it may be helpful to visit Indiana DNR SHAARD site. Indiana State Historic Architectural and Archaeological Research Database (SHAARD) and Indiana Historic Buildings, Bridges, and Cemeteries (IHBBC) Map Visit Indiana Landmarks site for more assistance. HISTORIC HOMES FAQ & DIY Consulting City Directories City directories are an easy source to consult for the names of a home’s occupants (as opposed to owners), as well as approximate construction dates. These directories typically also give the principal resident’s occupation. Published for cities of various sizes, the directories were inaugurated in some towns as early as 1855. If you have completed a chain of title, compare the names on the title to the city directories. From 1914 forward, most Indiana city directories contain an index by street address as well as occupant’s name. If you don’t know the names, research in pre-1914 directories becomes a tedious hunt through column after column of names as you search for your address. However, online, digitized versions can save you time if they allow you to search for names and addresses. Examining Census Data Beginning in 1850, census records include the names and number of people living in a house. In addition to revealing where inhabitants were born, their race, sex, age, and marital status, later records sometimes tell their occupations. Your local library or historical society may have census records, and many are available online free of charge or through subscription services such as Ancestry.com. The Genealogy Division of the Indiana State Library has several helpful links related to census records including a list of those available online. This file contains many helpful links: PDF From Hamilton East Public library Local help may be found at the: Noblesville Library - Discovery Center Noblesville Preservation Alliance [there may be an option for paid research] An appointment may be necessary How to list your home or property as a Historic Property The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service's National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archeological resources. The National Register nomination process usually starts with your state historic site. Indiana DNR Historic Preservation Application forms for Historic Site in Indiana How are Properties Evaluated? To be considered eligible, a property must meet the National Register Criteria for Evaluation . This involves examining the property’s age, significance, and integrity. Age and Integrity: Is the property old enough to be considered historic (generally at least 50 years old) and does it still look much the way it did in the past? Significance: Is the property associated with events, activities, or developments that were important in the past? With the lives of people who were important in the past? With significant architectural history, landscape history, or engineering achievements? Does it have the potential to yield information through archeological investigation about our past? National Register Listing Process Nominations can be submitted to your SHPO from property owners, historical societies, preservation organizations, governmental agencies, and other individuals or groups. Official National Register Nomination Forms are downloadable or from your State Historic Preservation Office. National Register Bulletins can also provide guidance on how to document and evaluate certain types of properties. Sample Nominations provide additional useful information. The SHPO notifies affected property owners and local governments and solicits public comment. If the owner (or a majority of owners for a district nomination) objects, the property cannot be listed but may be forwarded to the National Park Service for a Determination of Eligibility (DOE). Proposed nominations are reviewed by your state’s historic preservation office and the state’s National Register Review Board. The length of the state process varies but will take a minimum of 90 days. Complete nominations, with certifying recommendations, are submitted by the state to the National Park Service in Washington, D.C. for final review and listing by the Keeper of the National Register of Historic Places. The National Park Service makes a listing decision within 45 days. Local Help - Noblesville Preservation Alliance An appointment may be necessary to meet with them.

Minutes of our Meetings We provide minutes of our Board meetings for you to view. 2023 Board Meeting Dates* January 2023 Minutes March 2023 May 2023 July 2023 September 2023 February 2023 Minutes April 2023 June 2023 August 2023 October 2023 November 2023 December 2023 OCT - NOV - DEC 2022 Newsletter JAN - FEB - MAR 2023 Newsletter APR - AUG 2023 Newsletter

The Trial of DC Stephenson T he trial of DC Stephenson took place in Hamilton County Indiana 100 years ago. This was one of the most significant legal trials in our county’s history. DC. Stephenson felt he was above all laws due to his leadership of the Klan in Indiana and the support of many politicians. He was charged with rape and murder of Marge Oberholtzer and it was her detailed testimony before her death that was instrumental in the outcome of the trial. We acknowledge that at the time of the trial, there was significant local support for the KKK, but when justice was in the balance 12 men found Stephenson guilty ushering in the collapse of the KKK. The Hamilton County Historical Society and many other organizations are providing educational programs for our current citizens; providing educational programs not to celebrate but to examine a difficult history and reflect on how far we have come in the last century and how much further we still need to go. Hamilton County https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hamilton-co-historic-jail-and-courthouse-guided-tour-stephenson-trial-tickets-1111621031429?aff=oddtdtcreator The Hamilton County Current Article*The Hamilton County Historical Society condemns the actions and beliefs of the KKK. One hundred years ago, a trial took place on our grounds, and thanks to the citizens of Hamilton County, a horrific hate organization was dismantled and lost its grip on Indiana. We are providing spaces for our current citizens not to celebrate, but to examine a difficult history and reflect on how far we have come in the last century and how much further we still need to go. We are working with the Current and asking them to correct this and future stories on this subject. 2025 EVENTS Annual Meeting - December 7th, 2025 2:00 - 4:00 Noblesville Presbyterian Church Hamilton County and the Civil War Presenters: Kevin Yaney- Civil War Expert and Novelist Jason Shonkwiler - Civil War Expert and Civil War Reenactor We will be serving: Smoked meat [pork and beef] vegetables, fruit and cake Kevin Yaney SRO Jason Shonkwiler March 9th, 2025 2:00 PM - This event has passed. The Orphan Trains and who they brought to Noblesville in 1929 Come join us at the Hamilton East Public Library to learn about the fascinating history of the Orphan Trains and the impact they had on Noblesville in 1929. Discover the stories of the children who were brought to our community and the lasting legacy they left behind. This in-person event is a unique opportunity to delve into a lesser-known chapter of our town's history October 3rd and 4th 2025 - Haunted Jail - This event has passed. The Hamilton County Historical Society relies on the generosity of our community to thrive. If you enjoyed the Haunted Jail, we invite you to contribute a donation using one of the following links: $5 Donation $10 Donation $25 Donation Oct 21, 2025 - Homstead at Fieldgate Farm - This event has passed.

Sheriff Marcus Passwater Jr. 1959 - 1966 Mark Passwater in the jail office Marcus “Mark” Passwater Jr. served as Hamilton County Sheriff from 1959 to 1966. Mark was the son of Marcus Elijah Passwater Sr. and Eva Randall. He was born in Wayne Township, Hamilton County on 9 September 1920. His parents were living with his grandparents on his father’s side, Corydon Whetsel Passwater and Clara Belle Mowrey. Mark’s father was working on the family’s farm. When Mark was nine years old, his father was a farmer in Delaware Township, Hamilton County and Mark attended the schools in that area. Mark’s grandmother, Rosa Randall, lived with them. She was a widow. Between 1930 and 1940, the family moved to Noblesville Township, Hamilton County where Mark Sr. farmed and Mark Jr. worked as carpenter for a contract company. Mark was 19 years old. On 16 February 1942, Mark registered for the World War II draft in Noblesville. He was 21 years old and stated he worked for the Delco Remy Company in Anderson. When asked for physical characteristics that would aid in identification, Mark stated he had a scar over his left eye. Mark and Marjorie on a date On 17 October 1942, Mark married his high school sweetheart, Marjorie Marie Clark, daughter of John Herbert Clark and Edith Emily Bale, at her aunt’s home in Westfield. After their honeymoon, they settled in Noblesville with Mark working for the Delco Remy Company in Anderson and Marjorie working for the Public Service Company in Noblesville. Marjorie and Mark Passwater 1944 WWII pilots wore wings prior to flying overseas. Their first son, Alan Clark Passwater, was born on 20 July 19 1944 in Indianapolis, Indiana. By this time, Mark was serving as a Lieutenant in the U. S. Army Air Corp. Mark and Majorie’s daughter Judith Ann was born 27 May 1946 in Noblesville. Their second son, Steven H. Passwater, was born 1948. By 1950, the family was living in Wayne Township, Hamilton County. Mark was the manager and part owner of the Stony Creek Gravel Company from 1946 to 1951. In 1951, Mark decided that a change in jobs would be good and he was hired by Roland Guilkey, Hamilton County Sheriff at the time, to serve as his Deputy Sheriff. This began Mark’s law enforcement career. 1953 Plymouth with red lights, siren, and spotlight L-R: Passwater children: Judy, John, Alan (rear) and Steve Interestingly, Sheriff Guilkey and his new deputy had to design and create their own uniforms from old WWII uniforms. They had a shield on the arm sleeve. The state had not yet issued state mandated uniforms. They also had to buy their own guns and drive their own family cars. They fitted the cars with sirens and flashing lights. It was not until about 1957 the state had to provide at least one car for a sheriff’s department and standard uniforms for the sheriff and his deputies. Their third son and fourth child, John Mark Passwater, was born in 1952. Tragedy hit the family when Marjorie was diagnosed with polio in 1952. Her youngest child, John, was just two months old. Her son Steven suffered a mild seizure of infantile paralysis. A few days later, Marjorie was struck with the disease leaving her completely paralyzed and wholly dependent on an iron lung to live on for weeks at a time. Already dangerously ill, Marjorie contracted double pneumonia and was near death for weeks. Mark never gave up hope that his beautiful wife would survive and overcome her paralysis. Marjorie Passwater 1958 About 1955, the family moved into a new home on Indiana State Road 32, east September 1952 of Noblesville. The Passwater family home was designed by Mark to help his wife perform household tasks from her wheelchair. The kitchen and dining area were left open so Marjorie could move about freely. Electoral outlets were installed at chair level. To help his wife iron clothes, Mark fitted an ironing board with pulleys so Marjorie could raise and lower it while she was seated in her wheelchair. The kitchen cabinets were lowered so that Marjorie could reach them from her wheelchair. The winter sheriff's uniform first showing of the Star badge. 1966 About 1957, the state provided standard uniforms for the sheriff and his deputies. The shield badge that Sheriff Guilkey and Deputy Passwater created was changed to the standard Star badge on the arm sleeve. The sheriff’s department received its first state prescribed car. It was a Plymouth with red flashing lights, a siren, a spotlight, and a two-way radio. In January 1958, Marjorie was named Indiana’s “Polio Mother of the Year.” Through the help of her family physician, the Shrine Horse Patrol, and the Hamilton County Chapter of the Infantile Paralysis, Marjorie was able to visit the Georgia Warm Springs Foundation which was originated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Marjorie underwent additional therapy, intensive treatment, and was fitted for new braces in hopes that she would be able to walk. Her courage and determination were an inspiration to all who knew her. Mark and her children strived to help her live as normal a life as possible. Marjorie Passwater polio lift assist with son John. On Easter day in April 1958 after a three-month stay at Warm Springs, Marjorie stood on her feet erect for the first time in six years. She was aided with special shoes, braces, and crutches. It was a strenuous battle, but Majorie preservered through encouragement from her family and friends. When she returned home, her children were eager to be with their mother and besieged her with questions about her stay at Warm Springs. It was customary for a barber to come to the jail to trim the hair of the prisoners. When it was his turn to do this, Don Mosbaugh, a Noblesville barber, went to the jail in 1958 for that purpose. Whether it was a gag or for real, Sheriff Guilkey forgot about the barber and left him locked up. A few hours later, he remembered Don and went to free him. He found Don playing pinochle with the prisoners. When Roland Guilkey ended his term as the Hamilton County Sheriff, Mark decided to campaign for the open job in May of 1958. He came to the campaign with three qualifications for the job: He combined youth with experience. He was 37 years old with eight years in law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff. Although reared on a farm, he was also a businessman having managed a gravel company. A Sheriff in Hamilton County needs such diversified experience. Born and reared in Hamilton County he was a good citizen. He was a veteran of World War II having served in the U. S. Army Air Corps. He served his country well. He was involved in a variety of civic activities. He served as a precinct chairman and voted in every election. He was a member of the VFW, Clarksville Masonic Lodge, and the Sheriff’s Association. He was a member of the Bethel Methodist Church. In addition, he was a family man with four children. In the May 1958 primary, Mark received the biggest vote (5251 votes) although he had three competitors. He would become the next Hamilton County Sheriff in 1959 taking over his “boss’s” job when Roland Guilkey left at the end of 1958 to serve as the County Clerk. When Clifford McCory resigned as an Indiana State Trooper, Mark immediately appointed him as 1st Deputy Sheriff. Cliff and his wife Frances moved into the Sheriff’s Residence with their two sons, Murray (17) and Jerry (7). Since Marjorie was physically unable to serve as the prison matron, Frances became the official matron of the jail. Mark and his family continued living in their specially designed home in the Durbin area. With the appointment of Cliff McCory, the sheriff’s department had six officers: Donald Swails Jr, Lewis Smith, Donald Perkins, and Leo Porter. Roland Guilkey served as a special deputy while also serving as the Clerk of Hamilton County. In February 1962, Mark filed to run again for Hamilton County Sheriff. Unlike his last run for office, he faced only one competitor, Edwin Beery of Washington Township, in the May primary. He won that primary so that he ran under the Republican ticket. Grayson “Bizz” Thistlewaite in the 2nd floor courthouse office with Cliff McCory answering the jail radio in 1962 In November of this same year, Mark won a second term to serve as sheriff defeating James L. Nolton. In Mark’s second term, Cliff McCory became chief deputy. Grayson B. “Bizz” Thistlethwaite, a WWII Coast Guard veteran and the marshal of Sheridan, joined the department. Max Truesdel, another WWII veteran, who was serving in the Carmel Police Department brought the number of deputies to three in Mark’s second term. In 1959, the General Assembly set a limit number of deputies that counties can have. Three deputies were permitted in counties with a population between 29,999 and 39,999. Among a multitude of duties, the sheriff’s department handled investigations of county traffic accidents, served court papers, and transported prisoners to state institutions. In 1965, fabricated jail cells were installed on the second floor of the old jail. These were made by inmates of the Michigan City Penitentiary. Paint made by inmates of another prison was used to paint the bars and floors of the newly installed cells. Huge cans of food prepared by inmates in other prisons were used to feed the Hamilton County prisoners. Sometimes, food was also donated by local restaurants at the end of the work day. At the end of his second term, Mark stepped down from the Sheriff’s Department to begin his service as the County Health Sanitarian. In 1967, Cliff McCory took over as the new Hamilton County Sheriff. Marjorie Passwater passed away on 21 December 1973. Mark Passwater passed away on 3 December 2006. Both are buried in Crownland Cemetery, Noblesville, Hamilton County, Indiana. The Passwater family legacy in Hamilton County is deeply intertwined with a history of service, resilience, and community impact. Marcus "Mark" Passwater Jr., who served as Sheriff from 1959 to 1966, left a lasting imprint on the county through his dedication to law enforcement and civic engagement. His wife, Marjorie, recognized as the State's Polio Mother of the Year in 1958, embodied strength and grace in the face of adversity. Their children, Alan, Judith, Steven, and John, grew up in the Sheriff's Residence, surrounded by a unique blend of law enforcement culture and community life. Playing with other law enforcement families and engaging in activities around the square, they experienced firsthand the responsibilities and challenges of their father's role as Sheriff. Marjorie's battle with polio and Mark's unwavering support and innovative solutions, such as adapting their home for her wheelchair accessibility, exemplified their commitment to overcoming obstacles together. The family's move to a new home designed by Mark to facilitate Marjorie's daily tasks showcased their unity and resilience in the face of adversity. The Passwater family's involvement in civic activities, church, and community events underscored their deep-rooted connection to Hamilton County. Mark's military service, civic leadership, and dedication to his family left a lasting impact on the community, shaping the values and principles that defined the Passwater family legacy. Today, the Passwater family's story serves as a testament to strength, compassion, and service, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of integrity, community engagement, and familial bonds that defined the legacy of Marcus and Marjorie Passwater in Hamilton County. Mark and Marjorie Passwater family L-R: Mark, John, Judy, Marjorie, Steven, Alan 1958 What was it like being the son of the Sheriff? Steve and John Passwater shared stories of playing with the Guilkey and McCory kids in the Sheriff’s Residence. They would play wiffle ball outside and basketball with a basketball hoop in the basement on rainy and winter days. There were lots of toys to play with on the second floor and a black and white TV to watch in the room which is now decorated as the parlor. When in high school, they would walk to the jail and stayed there until their dad got off at 6pm to take them home. They also walked around the square and visited the existing stores. Kids at school knew their dad was the sheriff but didn’t make too big a deal about it. It was something that was just known. Since the family car was used as the patrol car, they sometimes rode in it when an emergency occurred calling the sheriff to action. When the state began to provide licensed standard patrol cars, they sometimes rode in those but not as often. When at the jail during lunch time, they would deliver the meals prepared by Frances McCory to the prisoners. Steve recalled delivering a lunch tray to a prisoner when he was 10 or 11, a young kid. After pushing the food tray into the cell, the prisoner said something unintelligible to him. He told the officers on his way back to the kitchen for another food tray. The officers told him that he was very drunk and just not making sense at all. They told him not to worry about it. The next day, Steve learned that the prisoner killed himself that night. How does the current jail differ from the way the jail was in 1959-1966? In the past, the room layout was quite different. What is currently the kitchen used to be an office. Prisoners would pass through this office on their way to the courthouse. The space was bustling with officers working, lawyers meeting clients, and people stopping by for various reasons. The area that now serves as the gift shop was once the kitchen. Frances McCory, the jail matron, prepared meals there for the prisoners. She went the extra mile, creating special dishes for Thanksgiving and even treating juvenile prisoners to special treats. Steve recalled one instance where a young child received a banana split before being transported to a juvenile detention center. After enjoying it, he fashioned a ship from sticks and left a heartfelt note for his mother, expressing his love. Frances made sure the note reached her. Over the years, Frances must have prepared thousands of meals for Hamilton County prisoners. As for what is currently the first responders’ room, it used to be Cliff and Frances McCory’s bedroom. Additionally, there was a garage for working on patrol cars and an area dedicated to fingerprinting and booking prisoners. Behind the jail, where the memorials now stand, was a parking lot. What types of crimes were committed by the prisoners? Usually, the crimes were intoxication, domestic abuse, burglaries, non-payment of child support, and such crimes of a similar nature. One man was charged with disorderly conduct when he continually had conversations with the prisoners while he was outside on the lawn. Now and then, prisoners charged with murder were there awaiting transportation to court when there was a change in venue. Marcus “Mark” Passwater Jr Served 1959-1966 This Oral History was written by Nancy Massey Hamilton County Geneologist Board Member Hamilton County Historical Society Family photos supplied by Steve Passwater Sources: Oral Interviews with Steve and John Passwater on Sunday, September 17, 2023 in the old jail. Year: 1930; Census Place: Delaware, Hamilton, Indiana; Page: 8A; Enumeration District: 0008; FHL microfilm: 2340325; household of Marcus Passwater Sr. Ancestry.com Year: 1940; Census Place: Noblesville, Hamilton, Indiana; Roll: m-t0627- 01050; Page: 1A; Enumeration District: 29-19; household of Marcus Passwater Sr. Ancestry.com Year: 1950; Census Place: Wayne, Hamilton, Indiana; Roll: 5141; Page: 27; Enumeration District: 29-33; household of Marcus Passwater Jr. Ancestry.com Marcus Passwater Jr birth certificate Indiana Archives and Records Administration; Indianapolis, Indiana; Birth Certificates; Year: 1920; Roll: 016 Ancestry.com Marcus Passwater Jr death certificate Indiana Archives and Records Administration; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Death Certificates; Year: 2006; Roll: 34 Ancestry.com Marcus Passwater and Marjorie Marie Clark marriage "Indiana Marriages, 1811-2019," database with images, FamilySearch (https://www.familysearch.org/ark:/61903/1:1:VXP5-8DF : 3 August 2022), Marcus Passwater and Marjorie Marie Clark, 17 Oct 1942; citing Hamilton, Indiana, United States, Marriage License, Indiana Commission on Public Records, Indianapolis; FHL microfilm 004186017. FamilySearch.org WWII draft for Marcus Passwater National Archives at St. Louis; St. Louis, Missouri; Wwii Draft Registration Cards For Indiana, 10/16/194003/31/1947; Record Group: Records of the Selective Service System, 147; Box: 596 Ancestry.com “Marjorie Passwater Named State’s Polio Mother of the Year,” The Noblesville Ledger Noblesville, Indiana, Tuesday, January 7, 1958 · Page 1 Newspapers.com “Stands Erect First Time in 6 Years,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Monday, April 7, 1958 · Page 1 Newspapers.com “Obituary for Marcus Passwater Jr.” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Friday, December 8, 2006 · Page 2 Newspapers.com “Marriage notice for Passwater and Clark,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Saturday, October 24, 1942 · Page 6 Newspapers.com “Obituary of Marjorie Passwater,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Saturday, December 22, 1973 · Page 16 Newspapers.com “County Inmates to Have a Traditional Turkey Dinner,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Wednesday, November 24, 1965 · Page 1 Newspapers.com “Remodeling of County Jail Gets Underway,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Friday, June 25, 1965 · Page 1 Newspapers.com ‘New Cell Block Being Installed at County Jail,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Friday, June 25, 1965 · Page 1 Newspapers.com “Arrested for PI, Jobless Painter Hangs Himself,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Monday, June 22, 1959 · Page 1 Newspapers.com “Mrs. Mark Passwater Stricken with Polio,” The Noblesville Ledger, Friday, 26 September 1952, p. 1 Newspapers.com “Sheriff’s Dept. To Get New Car From Don Hinds,” The Noblesville Ledger, Noblesville, Indiana, Tuesday, November 13, 1962 · Page 1 Newspapers.com