Fort Wayne, Indiana (Images of America)

In 1895, Fort Wayne officially celebrated the centennial of the construction of a Fort at the Three Rivers by General Anthony Wayne in 1794. For the belated birthday, Fort Wayne's streets were festooned with flags and bunting. Centennial arches
were erected throughout the city, and many events filled the week-long celebration. This photographic essay examines the century since the centennial. It outlines Fort Wayne's development in the twentieth century and conveys a picture of the city at the end of the century. The significance of the rivers in Fort Wayne's development is explored. A chapter on Calhoun Street focuses on the changes the twentieth century has produced in the downtown area. Changes in residential patterns, transportation, and leisure-time activities are emphasized.

The photographs for this collection have come from a variety of local sources, including the Allen County Public Library, the Cathedral Museum, Concordia Lutheran High School, Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, and the Allen County-Fort Wayne Historical Society. Ralph Violette has lived in Fort Wayne since 1970 and is an associate professor of history at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne. Join him on this wonderful photographic glimpse into the history of this unique American city.