The Tribune-Star
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A dedication ceremony for an Indiana State Historical Marker is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday at 514 North College St., in Rockville. The State Historical Marker commemorates Juliet V. Strauss of Rockville, a popular Hoosier columnist who worked to save the land that became Turkey Run State Park. The text follows for the State Historical Marker titled “Juliet V. Strauss”:
Popular columnist writing as “The Country Contributor,” Strauss (1863-1918) idealized simple rural life and traditional roles for women in a time of national shifts in class and gender relations. Began writing for hometown newspaper, Rockville Tribune, 1880, for Indianapolis News, 1903, and for Ladies Home Journal, 1905, which reached a million readers worldwide.
Through her columns and influence, Strauss worked to save old-growth forest, called Turkey Run, from destruction by lumber company. Turkey Run became Indiana’s second state park during Indiana’s centennial celebration, 1916, at a time of heightened national interest in conservation. Indiana women’s clubs dedicated a statue to her efforts at Turkey Run, 1922.
Strauss lived at the home at 514 North College St., which she called “Grouch Place.” Strauss biographer Ray Boomhower will offer brief remarks and project participants will be recognized. For more information about the dedication ceremony contact Betty Lea Hatheway at 812-236-1821.
State Historical Markers commemorate significant individuals, organizations, places, and events in Indiana history. These markers help communities throughout the state promote, preserve, and present their history for the education and enjoyment of residents and tourists. For more information about the Indiana Historical Marker Program, and other Indiana history resources, visit the Indiana Historical Bureau’s website at www.IN.gov/
history or call 317-232-2535.
