Prairietown 50th Anniversary

50 years of memories celebrating history, culture and early Hoosier life.

The Village on the Prairie: 50 Years of Prairietown

Founded in 1974 by Indianapolis industrialist Eli Lilly, Prairietown at Conner Prairie brings 19th-century Indiana to life. Lilly’s dedication to history and preservation inspired this immersive experience, showcasing trades, foodways, music, and daily life of the era. Prairietown has become a central feature of Conner Prairie, celebrated for its engaging portrayal of the past through talented interpreters, and its ongoing impact on the community. In 2024, Conner Prairie celebrates 50 years of Prairietown’s history and legacy, honoring the vision that started it all through the documentary, “The Village on the Prairie”.

The Village on the Prairie: 50 Years of Prairietown

Founded in 1974 by Indianapolis industrialist Eli Lilly, Prairietown at Conner Prairie brings 19th-century Indiana to life. Lilly’s dedication to history and preservation inspired this immersive experience, showcasing trades, foodways, music, and daily life of the era. Prairietown has become a central feature of Conner Prairie, celebrated for its engaging portrayal of the past through talented interpreters, and its ongoing impact on the community. In 2024, Conner Prairie celebrates 50 years of Prairietown’s history and legacy, honoring the vision that started it all through the documentary, “The Village on the Prairie”.

The Village on the Prairie: 50 Years of Prairietown Screening
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Join us at Flix Brewhouse in Carmel on February 27 for a special public screening of The Village on the Prairie: 50 Years of Prairietown! Celebrate the rich history and impact of Conner Prairie’s beloved Prairietown with this inspiring hour-long documentary.

With your ticket, enjoy dinner, a drink ticket, and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages as part of the experience. This event is perfect for history enthusiasts and families alike, though we recommend it for guests ages 10 and up.

Seating is limited, so secure your spot today for an unforgettable evening!

See Prairietown through the years

Explore our Collections page to learn more about the important artifacts housed at Conner Prairie. From material culture of the 19th Century to architectural history throughout Prairietown, these items are quintessential to Indiana history. Explore more about the history of Conner Prairie.

See Prairietown through the years

Explore our Collections page to learn more about the important artifacts housed at Conner Prairie. From material culture of the 19th Century to architectural history throughout Prairietown, these items are quintessential to Indiana history. Explore more about the history of Conner Prairie.

Read our 50 Commitments to the present and future

Prairietown is the cornerstone of the Museum’s immersive experiences that have impacted visitors from around the world. To commemorate this landmark anniversary, Conner Prairie focuses on 50 Commitments to the community that will highlight the work the Museum has done and continues to do to provide avenues for cultural enrichment, foster learning, spark curiosity and enhance the human experience.

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