This coming week in Indiana’s history …
1856 – Retta Matthews was born in Arlington. A gifted artist, she moved to Paris to develop her talent. In a few years, she returned to her home state and became known for fine sculpture. She was one of three women chosen to create statues to be displayed at the 1893 Chicago Exposition. Her “Indiana” statue was exhibited, along with “Nymph” by Janet Scudder of Terre Haute and “Education” by Frances Goodwin of New Castle.
1900 – The Indianapolis News “Newsboy Band” met at the Cyclorama on West Market Street for the first rehearsal. During its 62-year existence, over 3,500 musician-newsboys participated in the band. They performed at both the St. Louis and Chicago World’s Fairs.
1919 – Harry S. New, United States Senator from Indiana, spoke to a large audience at the courthouse in Madison. He criticized President Woodrow Wilson’s proposed plan for a “League of Nations.” He also spoke to the Madison Rotary Club where he discussed the government control of railroads.
1925 – Eugene Savage was the guest of honor at the Riley Room in the Claypool Hotel in Indianapolis. Savage, who had gained fame as an artist and sculptor, spoke fondly of his boyhood in Fountain County. At the Statehouse, the large mural in the chamber of the House of Representatives was created by Savage.
1965 – Tornadoes struck several states in the Midwest. Now known as the “Palm Sunday Tornadoes,” they struck in 20 counties in Indiana. Communities hit included Goshen, Dunlap, Russiaville, Kokomo, Berne, and several others. The death toll in the state was 137 with over 1,700 injured.
1990 – Ryan White died at age 18. An AIDS patient, his courageous struggle for acceptance caught the attention of the world. He was befriended by many, including President Ronald Reagan, First Lady Nancy Reagan, Elton John, Elizabeth Taylor, Bobby Knight and John Mellencamp.