Knightstown, Indiana, was named in honor of Jonathan Knight, a significant figure who served as both an engineer on the National Road and a U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania.
The town itself was established and platted by Waitsell M. Cary in 1827. His decision to name the burgeoning settlement after Jonathan Knight reflects Knight's prominence and likely his contributions or association with the National Road, a vital transportation artery that played a crucial role in the development of many early American settlements. This connection to a distinguished engineer and politician provided the town with its lasting identity.
Key Figures in Knightstown's Naming
The naming of Knightstown involves two primary individuals, each playing a distinct role in the town's early history:
| Role | Person | Year/Context |
|---|---|---|
| Town Founder/Platter | Waitsell M. Cary | 1827 |
| Namesake | Jonathan Knight | Engineer on National Road, U.S. Congressman from Pennsylvania |
This dual connection highlights the importance of both local founders and national figures in shaping the geography and identity of nascent American communities.
For more details on the town's history, you can visit the Knightstown, Indiana Wikipedia page.
