Step back in time as you listen to the train ticket collector share the story of Indiana’s first railroad and its historic station. Hear the echoes of steam engines and the hustle of travelers as you learn how Madison became a crucial hub for early rail travel. Let the past come to life through the voice of history, guiding you through the sights and sounds of this groundbreaking era. Schedule a visit to see the magic of the Madison Railroad Station yourself!

Located at 615 1st Street

Step inside Madison’s crown jewel, the Lanier Mansion, as Drusella Lanier shares stories of her family’s legacy and the grandeur of their home. Through her words, experience the elegance of the Greek Revival architecture, the lively gatherings in the parlor, and the daily life within these historic walls. Let her voice transport you to a time of wealth, innovation, and the spirit of 19th-century Madison. Schedule a tour to see inside the beautifully preserved National Historic Landmark yourself!

Located at 601 West 1st Street

Listen as Emily Todd Helm welcomes you into her Madison home and shares her unique connection to history as the sister of Mary Todd Lincoln, First Lady of the United States from 1861-1865. Through Emily’s voice, hear stories of family ties to the White House, the challenges of a nation divided by war, and her life in this charming river town. Step back in time and experience Madison’s history through the eyes of someone who lived it.

Located at 601 West Main Street

Step into the world of Francis Costigan through the eyes of his wife, who watched her husband transform Madison’s streetscape with his stunning designs. As she welcomes you into their home, she shares the joys and challenges of life alongside one of Indiana’s most gifted architects. Listen as she recounts the meticulous craftsmanship, the grandeur of his work, and the legacy he left behind in this beautiful river town. Schedule a tour to see inside the Costigan House & admire the architectural beauty yourself.

Located at 408 West 3rd Street

Step into Dr. Hutchings’s office and hospital as his voice brings to life the story of 19th-century medicine in Madison, Indiana. Hear about the groundbreaking treatments, the long nights caring for patients, and the evolution of healthcare in a growing river town. As you listen, imagine the bustling halls, the scent of medicinal herbs, and the dedication of a doctor who shaped Madison’s medical history. Don’t forget – you can schedule a tour of this site with Historic Madison, Inc.!

Located at 120 West 3rd Street

Step inside the Schroeder Saddletree Factory and hear the story of one of Madison’s most important industries. Through the voice of a factory worker, experience the sounds of saws and hammers shaping saddle trees that were shipped across the country. Learn how this workshop played a vital role in 19th-century craftsmanship, supplying the backbone of America’s saddles and connecting Madison to the nation’s booming horse trade. Take a virtual tour or schedule to see it in-person today!

Located at 106 Milton Street

Step into the African Methodist Episcopal Church and hear the story of a man who overcame the unimaginable. Born free but sold into slavery as a child, he fought for his freedom and found his way to Madison, where he helped build this very church. Through his voice, feel the weight of his journey—of loss, resilience, and faith—and how this sacred space became a refuge, a place of strength, and a testament to the unbreakable spirit of a community determined to rise. To learn more about the Georgetown neighborhood where the church is located as well as its role in the Underground Railroad, check out the Historic Madison Inc. website.

Located at 309 East 5th Street

Step into St. Michael’s Church and hear the story of faith, tradition, and resilience from the perspective of an early parishioner who helped build it. Listen as they recall the dedication of Madison’s German Catholic community, the hard work that built this sacred place, and the echoes of prayers that have filled its walls for generations. Through their voice, experience the church as more than just a building—it’s a symbol of devotion, unity, and the enduring spirit of those who called it home. Public tours are offered seasonally, so check the schedule to plan yours today!

Located at 519 East 3rd Street

Step into the Fairplay Fire Company, Indiana’s oldest volunteer fire department, and hear the story of bravery and brotherhood from the perspective of a volunteer firefighter. Listen as he recalls the urgent clang of the fire bell, the rush of boots on cobblestone, and the fierce determination to protect Madison’s homes and businesses. Through his voice, experience the pride of a community-built fire company, where neighbors stood ready to fight the flames and look out for one another, no matter the risk.

Located at 405 East Main Street

The Jefferson County Courthouse stands as a testament to Madison’s commitment to justice and civic pride. Completed in 1855, this grand Greek Revival structure was built to serve as the center of law and governance for the county. Its towering columns and stately design reflect the prosperity and ambition of the era, surviving fires, renovations, and the passage of time to remain a symbol of resilience. Nearby, the old jail, constructed in 1849, once held prisoners within its thick stone walls. Built to maintain law and order in the growing river town, it stands today as a reminder of Madison’s evolving justice system and architectural heritage.

Located at 300 East Main Street

Step inside the Schofield House and witness the moment when a group of determined men laid the foundation for Indiana’s first Masonic Lodge. Tired of relying on distant lodges in other states, they gathered in this modest Federal-style home in 1818, united by a vision to establish their own Grand Lodge. By candlelight, they drafted their charter, set their principles, and took the first steps toward shaping Indiana’s Masonic brotherhood. What began as a small meeting in a simple house became the cornerstone of Freemasonry in the state, a legacy that continues to this day.

Located at 217 West 2nd Street 

The Sullivan House is a striking example of Madison’s rich architectural heritage, showcasing the elegance of the Greek Revival style. Built in the mid-19th century, this historic home reflects the prosperity of the era with its grand columns, symmetrical design, and intricate details. Over the years, it has stood as a testament to the craftsmanship and vision that shaped Madison’s historic district, preserving the charm and character of the city’s past. Learn more about the property & inquire about scheduling a tour today!

Located at 304 West 2nd Street

Madison is home to some of the earliest modular homes in the country, dating back to the early 1890s and predating the well-known Sears kit homes. These prefabricated houses were built in sections and assembled on-site, offering an efficient and innovative approach to home construction for the time. Designed for practicality and durability, they provided affordable housing options while showcasing the craftsmanship and architectural trends of the late 19th century. Today, these homes stand as a testament to Madison’s early role in modular construction and its ongoing dedication to historic preservation.

Located at 218, 220, & 222 West 2nd Street

Madison has a long and storied history as a center for ironwork craftsmanship, dating back to the 19th century when skilled blacksmiths and foundries supplied the growing river town with decorative and functional metalwork. Local artisans crafted intricate wrought iron fences, balconies, stair railings, and storefront details that still adorn the city’s historic district today. With iron foundries producing everything from household tools to large-scale industrial pieces, Madison became known for the quality and durability of its metalwork. This tradition of craftsmanship continues to be a defining feature of the city’s architectural charm and historic preservation efforts.