Place Information
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Hamilton County is a county located in the U.S. state of Indiana. The county seat is Noblesville. The center of population of Indiana is located in Hamilton County, in the town of Sheridan. Hamilton County's roots are in agriculture. However after World War II, Indianapolis grew north and the county developed as a suburb. Many farm fields have been replaced over the past couple decades by both residential and commercial development. Today, the county is one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation. According to 2007 estimates by the U.S. Census, the County's population jumped from an estimated 182,740 in 2000 to 261,661 in 2007, 30% of the state's total population increase from between 2000 and 2007. It is the fastest growing county in Indiana out of 92. In 2006, Hamilton County was the 18th fastest-growing county in the nation (out of 3,141) based on census estimates between 2000 and 2005. In 2008, it was the 23rd fastest-growing county in the nation based on census estimates between 2000 and 2007. Recently, Hamilton County surpassed St. Joseph County in population, making it the fourth most populous in the state. In 2007, Hamilton County was home to 3 of the state's 20 largest cities. Carmel (8th), Fishers (10th), and Noblesville (19th). All three are expected to move up in the rankings by 2010. Geist and Morse Reservoirs are two man-made lakes in Hamilton County that offer residents and visitors recreational opportunities, such as boating, fishing and waterfront living. Today, Hamilton County is often called the playground of Indianapolis as many parks, museums, venues and recreational spots have become very popular amongst Indianapolis residents. The median household income of Hamilton County is more than $82,000, making it the most affluent county in Indiana. In June 2008 Hamilton County was named America's Best Place to Raise a Family by Forbes.com[1] due to its strong economy, affordable living, top ranked schools, and close proximity to Indianapolis.
History
The land containing Hamilton County was brought into the possession of the United States by the Treaty of St. Mary's in 1818. William Conner was the first white settler in the county. In the summer of 1822, after realizing there were enough settlers in the area, Conner and other settlers applied to the Indiana Legislature for a charter authorizing them to become a separate and independent county under Indiana law. The application was presented to the Legislature at the 1822-23 session and the act was passed and approved by the Governor on January 8, 1823. The act took effect on the first Monday in April (April 7), 1823. The County Commissioners first met on May 5, 1823 at the house of William Conner. Conner's house would also serve as the County Circuit Court. The county was named after Alexander Hamilton, the first secretary of the treasury. Timeline
Population History
Research TipsExternal linkswww.countyhistory.com/hamilton
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