The Woodward Chronicles

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , we honor the remarkable women who helped shape the heart, heritage, and future of Wabash County. From widely known figures to those whose stories have quietly endured, these women embody strength, resilience, and a pioneering spirit. We begin with the extraordinary life of Frances Slocum—a young girl taken during frontier conflict who went on to live a...

What happens when history, folklore, mystery, and a touch of the unexplained collide? In this captivating episode of The Woodward Chronicles , Wabash County Historian Emeritus, Ronald Woodward, takes listeners on a journey through some of the county's most curious stories, legends, and enduring mysteries. Have you heard the tale of the headless wanderer? The man wrapped in metal? Or the myster...

What happens when history, folklore, mystery, and a touch of the unexplained collide? In this captivating episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Wabash County Historian Emeritus, Ronald Woodward, takes listeners on a journey through some of the county's most curious stories, legends, and enduring mysteries. Have you heard the tale of the headless wanderer? The man wrapped in metal? Or the myste...

In this episode of The Woodward Chronicles, we trace the roots of Wabash County’s growth—from the arrival of the canal in the 1830s to the powerful expansion of railroads that transformed the region into a hub of opportunity. Early turnpikes and toll roads reveal the grit it took to move people and goods, while the formation of commercial clubs highlights a long-standing commitment to business att...

Before factories lined the riverbanks and industry powered progress, Wabash County’s economy was built by grit, ingenuity, and the natural resources of the land and water. In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , we explore the earliest forms of manufacturing in Wabash County—from the vital role of grist mills that turned local grain into food and commerce, to the production of corn liquor th...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Mr. Ronald Woodward lifts listeners into the fascinating history of aviation in Wabash County—a story that spans daring hot-air balloon missions, wartime innovation, and the rise of multiple local airports. With his trademark depth and warmth, Mr. Woodward explores: Hot-air balloons used during wartime , including how early ballooning technology influe...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Historian Emeritus  Ronald Woodward  takes us on a fascinating ride through the early days of the automobile in Wabash County. Discover how the arrival of cars transformed everyday life, hear about the county’s first roadway accidents, and learn the surprising story of automobiles that were once  produced right here in Wabash County . This captivating...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Historian Emeritus  Ronald Woodward  takes us on a journey to explore the good times enjoyed by those who came before. Wabash County today may feel quiet, but beneath the calm lies a rich history of amusement, spectacle, and community entertainment. In this episode, we explore the vanished amusement park with Indiana’s first roller coaster, traveling c...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Mr. Ronald Woodward dives into one of the most colorful and unexpected chapters in Wabash County history — the  local gold rush . Hear the story of  Charley Creek , where a lucky few discovered  $1,000 in gold flakes , sparking excitement and speculation across the county. Alongside the gold fever, Mr. Woodward shares tales of the county’s  rowdy past...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Mr. Ronald Woodward takes us back  thousands of years  to explore the  prehistoric era of Wabash County  — long before towns, trails, or even people. Discover the ancient landscape that once existed here, from the  murky depths of the Black Swamp  to the oceanic creatures that roamed these waters, including the not-so-fuzzy, straight-shelled  Nautiloid...

In this episode of  The Woodward Chronicles , Mr. Ronald Woodward explores a powerful and complex chapter in Wabash County’s history — the  time of abolition  and the rise of local  White Cap vigilantes . Discover how the  abolition movement in Wabash County was led by local Quakers , whose deep faith and commitment to equality guided their actions. Many of their  descendants still call Wabash hom...

Welcome to  The Woodward Chronicles , where stories of Wabash County’s past are told by the man who dedicated his life to preserving them. In this debut episode, meet  Mr. Ronald Woodward , former Wabash County Historian and the author of nearly  50 published books  capturing the people, places, and moments that shaped Wabash County. Listen as Mr. Woodward shares how he first came to Wabash, what...

Step into  The Woodward Chronicles , where Wabash County’s history comes alive. In this debut episode, meet  Ronald Woodward , former County Historian and author of nearly 50 books chronicling the people, places, and moments that shaped our community. Hear how he came to Wabash, discovered his passion for history, and dedicated his life to preserving local heritage. Ronald Woodward has been bestow...