Fortunately we do know the meaning of the name “Indiana”. Not surprisingly it means, land of the Indians. Indiana joined the union back in 1961 when it became the 19th state. It is the smallest state west of the Appalachians. It is bordered by Kentucky, Illinois, Michigan and Ohio. It has its own little slice of Lake Michigan.
Indiana produces steel, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, automobiles, electrical equipment, transportation equipment, chemical products, rubber, petroleum and coal products, and factory machinery. It grows corn, soybeans, melons, grapes, tomatoes tobacco and mint. It fattens and processes hogs, and cattle and has dairy and chicken farms.
Hoosiers are fond of sports. The state has a long association with motor racing as in the Indianapolis 500. It boasts many college and professional sports teams with names like Hoosiers, Bulldogs, The Indians, Pacers and the Colts (known for their fanatical fans). They are also home to the famous Ft. Wayne “Mad Ants”.
Notable Indianans include: Dan Janzen, Johnny Appleseed, Dan Quayle, Justice Supreme Court Justice, John Roberts, James Dean, Anne Baxter, Carol Lombard, Irene Dunn, Brendan Fraizer, Shelly Long, Steve McQueen, Karl Malden, Red Skelton, Crystal Gayle, Adam Lambert, Michael Jackson, John Mellencamp, Cole porter, David Letterman, a bunch of heavy metal musicians, Orville Redenbacher, Halston, Jimmy Hoffa, Will Shortz and a truly staggering number of other people too numerous to mention here.
Thank you Hoosiers.
Nancy McDermott
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