Fountain Square

"FTN SQR," written and recorded by Ray Wyatt

Change can make or break a community, and Fountain Square has experienced more than its fair share of it. At the beginning of the 20th century, Fountain Square was the southside’s main commercial center, it had several theatres, a grocery store, a bakery, a pharmacy, and much more. A large population of German, Irish, and Italian immigrants contributed to the success of the economy. It was the American dream, people from different places coming together to make a better life in the States.

Unfortunately, the neighborhood was soon met by decline. The highway cut through, resulting is the destruction of many houses and businesses. Many of the immigrants moved to prospering neighborhood farther south, and many of the theatres closed their doors, which could have been the nail in the coffin.

However, over the last 10 years, those who are still passionate about the community have worked to build it backup to its former glory. Houses and historic buildings have been renovated to look like new, and the neighborhood has been able to restore its original fountain. Fountain Square is now know for its restaurants, art scene, and of course, duckpin bowling.

When hard times hit this neighborhood, it would have been easy to let it go. Nevertheless, long time residents worked in conjunction with new neighbors to make Fountain Square into the Indianapolis Cultural District that is is today.

Next time you find yourself on the southeast side, swing by Fountain Square. See what change can do for a community.