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Lafayette, Indiana

Welcome to Lafayette, a vibrant city nestled along the historic Wabash River, where innovation meets rich heritage. From its beginnings as a critical hub on the Wabash and Erie Canal, Lafayette grew into a major railroad center, a legacy still visible today. We're proud to be neighbors to Purdue University, a world-class institution that enriches our community with its spirit of discovery and global connections.
Founded 1825 | Population 70,373 | Peak 70,373 (2024) | County Tippecanoe County

Top Events in Lafayette, Indiana

1
1825 City Platted: William Digby surveyed and platted the townsite, marking Lafayette's official start.
2
1853 City Incorporated: Lafayette officially became an incorporated city, signifying its growing importance.
3
1887 Monon Shops Arrive: The establishment of the Monon Railroad Shops brought significant industrial growth.
4
1913 Great Flood Impacts: A devastating flood caused widespread damage and prompted community rebuilding.
5
2000 Downtown Renaissance: Significant investment began revitalizing the historic downtown district, creating vibrant spaces.
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Latest News in Lafayette

Mar 19, 2026
Tragedy Strikes After Police Discover Toddler Dead In A Closet 
A tragic case of alleged neglect in Indiana has left a 2-year-old girl dead
May 19, 2016
She was Tears Indiana Woman Upset After Trooper Accuses her Doing Meth
Indiana, IN – On a routine traffic stop that turned into a nightmare, an Indiana woman found herself in tears after a state troo…
May 9, 2016
Thousands Indiana Residents Lose Food Stamp Benefits
Indiana – On May 9, 2016, a wave of frustration swept through the state as thousands of Hoosiers suddenly found themselves cut o…
Mar 5, 2016
Trump Blasts Free Trade During Indiana Rally Video
Indiana, March 5, 2016 — Donald Trump didn’t hold back during a packed rally here, where he took aim at free trade agreeme…
Jun 8, 2015
Indiana Food Stamp Enrollment Down After State Enacts Work Welfare
Indianapolis, Indiana – Back in early 2015, Indiana’s decision to tie welfare benefits to work requirements started showin…

Historical Timeline of Lafayette

1825 Government
City Platted
1843 Transport
Canal Completion
1853 Government
City Incorporated
1869 Culture
Purdue University Founded
1887 Economy
Monon Shops Open
1913 Economy
Great Flood
1965 Transport
Interstate 65
2000 Culture
Downtown Revitalization

Did You Know? — Lafayette

1
Lafayette is named after the Marquis de Lafayette, the French hero of the American Revolutionary War.
2
The city was a crucial stop on the historic Wabash and Erie Canal, connecting the Great Lakes to the Ohio River.
3
Lafayette was once home to the massive Monon Railroad Shops, a major employer and cornerstone of its industrial past.
4
Just south of Lafayette lies Prophetstown State Park, preserving the cultural and natural heritage of the area, including the site of the Battle of Tippecanoe.
5
Purdue University, a world-renowned public research university, is located directly across the Wabash River in West Lafayette, significantly impacting the twin cities.
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Famous People from Lafayette, Indiana

SP
Sydney Pollack
Actor, Character Actor · Born Jul 1, 1934 · Died May 26, 2008 (age 73)
AR
Axl Rose
Pianist, Singer-Songwriter · Born Feb 6, 1962 · Age 64
IS
Izzy Stradlin
Composer, Lyricist · Born Apr 8, 1962 · Age 63
RE
Ray Ewry
Athletics Competitor · Born Oct 14, 1873 · Died Sep 29, 1937 (age 63)
ED
Embeth Davidtz
Actor, Stage Actor · Born Aug 11, 1965 · Age 60

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