New signage honoring Plum Prairie’s history & Reverend Barney Stone installed in Noblesville

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Historical signage celebrating the history of Noblesville’s Plum Prairie neighborhood and Reverend Barney Stone has been installed as part of the Reimagine Pleasant Street project.

Local leaders are celebrating the rich history and character of Noblesville and Hamilton County throughout the Pleasant Street corridor. This historic signage will inform and highlight the importance of the Plum Prairie neighborhood and the legacy of Reverend Barney Stone, who was the longtime pastor of the First Baptist Church and one of the first formerly enslaved persons to settle in Noblesville.

Hamilton County Historian David Heighway (left) speaks as Mayor Jensen looks on. (Photo provided)

Noblesville Preservation Alliance Executive Director Joshua Glassburn-Ruby speaks as the mayor looks on. (Photo provided)

“Recognizing our past while celebrating our future is at the heart of the Reimagine Pleasant Street project and our city,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen said. “This signage pays homage to Reverend Stone and is a tribute to the Plum Prairie neighborhood and what it means to our community. We’re thrilled to see this project come to life as we continue to highlight the character of Noblesville.”

The Plum Prairie neighborhood, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was home to a growing African American community in Noblesville. The area was once home to several industries, including the American Strawboard Company, Rupp & Son Bucket Factory, and Standard Canning Company.

The Plum Prairie Neighborhood sign (left) and Reverend Barney Stone sign (right). (Photos provided)

Barney Stone served in the Union Army and later pursued an education and became a minister. He moved to Noblesville with his family in the 1890s and pastored the First Baptist Church at Fifth and Cherry streets. He also served as a circuit court bailiff and chaplain for the Grand Army of the Republic.

“I am so grateful for Mayor Jensen’s unwavering commitment to an inclusive history of Noblesville,” Noblesville Diversity Coalition Advisory Board President Dana Randall said. “By honoring the invaluable contributions of Reverend Barney Stone and the Plum Prairie neighborhood, you have helped ensure that every story is told, every voice is heard, and every legacy is honored. Looking back and sharing our diverse heritage is one way to create a more inclusive and welcoming community where everyone belongs.”

The first phase of the project, which is the segment from River Road to 11th Street, is open to traffic. Construction for Phases 2 and 3 has begun.

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen speaks to the crowd gathered for the unveiling. (Photo provided)