A strong community is one which prepares for the future while remembering what got it there in the first place. So many things have made central Indiana what it is today, but the National Road (Washington St, to many of us) had a significant influence on not only Indianapolis, but many Hoosier communities from Terre Haute to Richmond.
Starting in Cumberland, MD and extending to Vandalia, IL, the National Road was the first major improved highway in the US and served as a main thoroughfare for many looking to go west from the East Coast in the 19th and early 20th century. For many towns in Indiana, it has served as the main street, while in Indianapolis, much of our historic downtown dots the way.
Since 1994, the Indiana National Road Association (INRA) has worked to preserve the history along the way in Indiana and promote the communities that line the path. With the effects of COVID hitting these communities, INRA’s mission is needed now more than ever. As we enter 2021, the board of INRA is focused on helping the towns and businesses along the way, promoting them to travelers and others looking for a slice of the Midwest. This includes the release of a new Indiana National Road Virtual Driving Guide and a new website.
But we need your help!
While INRA is a healthy all-volunteer organization, we need more hands to help us accomplish what we hope to do next year. As such, we are looking for young, talented additions to our Board of Directors who will bring their creativity, passion and knowledge in marketing, history, fundraising or any other way you might be able to help. All skills are welcome!
Currently, we meet virtually once per month and our meetings last no longer than an hour. Currently, we have two to three key events per year, but we are always looking for new ways to achieve our mission.
Interested in joining us? Contact us at indiananationalroad@gmail.com and let us know how you’d like to be involved. You can learn more about INRA (and how to join) at www.indiananationalroad.org.
Come and help us protect, preserve and promote Indiana’s section of the Historic National Road!
Larry Messing
Board President
Indiana National Road Association
Bio
Larry Messing has served as Board President of the Indiana National Road Association (INRA) since 2019. In his full-time work, he serves as the Director of Development for the Society of Professional Journalists. A resident of Irvington, he has a passion for history, fundraising, marketing and bourbon.
