Culture, History & Festivals
Sullivan is a community with deep roots, rich traditions, and a strong sense of hometown pride. From historic architecture and treasured landmarks to local festivals, public art, and community events, Sullivan offers residents and visitors a chance to experience the character and culture that make our city unique. Whether you are exploring our historic downtown, attending a festival on the City Square, or learning about the people and places that shaped our community, Sullivan’s history continues to be an important part of everyday life.
Sullivan County Courthouse
Located at the center of Sullivan’s historic downtown square, the Sullivan County Courthouse serves as both the seat of county government and a centerpiece of community activity. Constructed in the early 1920s, the courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized for its impressive Beaux Arts architecture.
Designed by Walter Heath and John Bayard, the three story structure features a stunning interior rotunda that extends from the first floor through the third floor, creating one of the courthouse’s most memorable architectural elements. Its location at the heart of downtown continues to make it a gathering place for civic events, celebrations, and daily community life.
Sullivan County Home
Often referred to historically as the “Poor Farm,” the Sullivan County Home is located just east of the city along East Washington Street. The structure is recognized by both the National Register of Historic Places and Indiana Landmarks for its historical and architectural significance.
Built in the late 1800s by the Fort Wayne architectural firm Wing and Mahurin, the building combines Romanesque Revival and Queen Anne styles. Before modern welfare programs and retirement facilities existed, county homes provided care for elderly and disadvantaged residents. With its prominent tower, corner turret, and wrought iron entrance, the Sullivan County Home remains one of the community’s most recognizable historic landmarks.
Sherman Building
Located on the downtown City Square at 24 South Court Street, the Sherman Building has long been one of Sullivan’s architectural treasures. Constructed in 1915 for Cuthbert J. Sherman by the F.J. Nicholas Company, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural and engineering significance.
At the time of its opening, the Sherman Theater was considered one of the finest entertainment venues in Indiana, featuring marble staircases, mahogany woodwork, ceramic tile flooring, and elegant slag glass chandeliers. The theater hosted vaudeville performances, films, and touring productions throughout much of the twentieth century.
The three story brick building also included retail storefronts and a ballroom, helping make it a center of social and commercial activity in downtown Sullivan. Today, the building continues to serve the community in a new role while preserving its historic character.
Sullivan County Public Library
Located just west of the courthouse square at 100 South Crowder Street, the Sullivan County Public Library is one of Indiana’s historic Carnegie libraries.
In the early 1900s, members of the Sullivan Women’s Club helped establish a public library board and secure funding for the project. Industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie contributed $10,000 toward construction after local supporters secured the site and matching funding.
Dedicated in 1905, the limestone building was designed by architect Paul O. Moratz and is known for its distinctive domed roof, an uncommon feature among Carnegie libraries. Today, the library continues to serve residents with educational programs, community events, and resources for all ages while preserving one of Sullivan’s most beautiful historic buildings.
For more information about programs and services, visit Sullivan County Public Library.
George L. Mesker Building Fronts
Downtown Sullivan is home to several historic metal storefront facades manufactured by the George L. Mesker Company of Evansville, Indiana.
From the late 1800s through the early 1900s, the Mesker Company produced decorative sheet metal and cast iron storefronts for communities across the country. Marketed as affordable, fire resistant, and visually impressive, thousands of these facades were installed throughout Indiana and the Midwest.
Visitors exploring downtown Sullivan can still spot several Mesker fronts today. Many include the original manufacturer’s stamp somewhere near ground level, making them a fun part of Sullivan’s architectural history to discover while walking the square.
Sullivan Area Art Guild Gallery
The Sullivan Area Art Guild Gallery, located at 16 South Court Street on the west side of the downtown square, showcases the creativity and talent of local and regional artists.
Since opening its gallery space in 2013, the Art Guild has become an important part of Sullivan’s cultural community. The gallery features paintings, ceramics, photography, handcrafted furniture, jewelry, and other works created by area artists. Many pieces are available for purchase, and the gallery regularly hosts classes, exhibits, and special guest presentations.
The gallery is typically open Fridays through Sundays and welcomes visitors throughout the year. Be sure to visit their Facebook page.
Sullivan Rotary Corn Festival
The Sullivan Rotary Corn Festival is one of the city’s most anticipated annual traditions. Held each September, the multi day festival brings the community together for live entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors, local traditions, and family activities centered around the downtown square.
Festival highlights include the annual parade along Section Street, live concerts at Sullivan Central Plaza, the popular turtle races, and a variety of activities for all ages. The event continues to attract visitors from throughout the region while celebrating Sullivan’s strong community spirit.For schedules and festival updates, visit Sullivan Rotary Club.
Heart of Sullivan
Heart of Sullivan is a volunteer driven civic organization dedicated to supporting community pride, downtown activity, and local events throughout the year.
The organization hosts several popular annual events, including:
Plaza Palooza
Held at Sullivan Central Plaza near the end of summer, Plaza Palooza is a free outdoor concert event featuring live music, food vendors, beverages, and a community gathering atmosphere.
Taste of Sullivan
Hosted each fall, Taste of Sullivan gives residents and visitors an opportunity to sample food and specialties from local restaurants, caterers, and vendors while enjoying live entertainment.
Victorian Christmas
Victorian Christmas transforms downtown Sullivan into a festive holiday destination with carriage rides, holiday lighting displays, downtown shopping specials, seasonal entertainment, and visits with a Victorian themed Santa Claus.
Through these events and many others, Heart of Sullivan continues to strengthen community connections and celebrate the traditions that make Sullivan a special place to live and visit. Learn more about Heart of Sullivan and stay up to date about local events by following their Facebook page.