A LONG HISTORY AND BRIGHT FUTURE: INDIANA LIMESTONE

Much of the nation’s dimension limestone is produced in a narrow outcrop of the Salem Limestone (Mississippian) in south-central Indiana. This building stone has graced thousands of important, even iconic, structures since the 1820s. Known as “Indiana Limestone” and other trade names, the buff- to gray-colored carbonate grainstone has good physical properties and excellent performance records in buildings. It occurs in thick beds and has a physically uniform and relatively chemically pure composition. Limestone mining has had a major impact on the economic, historical, and cultural landscapes in south-central Indiana and on the architectural heritage of the United States.

Although reserves are large, land-use pressures are leading the industry to consider more sustainable practices. Sustainable mining requires maximizing the use of resources and reusing mined lands. The limestone belt is rife with rectangular mines, abandoned mills, and enormous piles of waste blocks. Several groups are seeking ways to use waste materials, especially fines generated by milling.

Efforts are underway to put mined lands to use by promoting geotourism. A popular driving tour features limestone-related sites. Several small towns hold limestone festivals and June has been designated “Limestone Month,” featuring more than 30 events, including a stone carving symposium. A limestone heritage park was suggested by local civic and tourism interests to showcase the stone and its history. Recently, a large archive of historical limestone images was obtained by Indiana University. This venerable industry may see renewed importance.