Central Business District Walking Tour Preview

1

Main Street

Many small businesses and shops line Main Street. You can find anything from clothing to a sweet treat. Businesses may change, but the facade of these historical buildings have remained nearly the same since their construction.

2

Shipley's Tavern

322 West St. c. 1865 This is Madison’s oldest (standalone) tavern in town since its opening in 1867. It earned the name of Shipley’s in the 1940s when the Shipley family purchased it. The business has changed hands many times since then, but the name has stuck. On the side of the building is a massive mural painted in 2009 by Tiffany Black. It highlights parts of the town throughout history. It is still an active tavern.

3

Madison Courier

The Madison Courier was established in 1837 and was family owned from 1849 to 2020. It is the second oldest newspaper in Indiana and is still published today.

4

Feedmill

301 West St. Despite not being a feedmill anymore, the equipment for processing feed remains. Look to the roof of the building to see various original machinery. It was once known as Irwin’s and then Lamson’s.

5

The Clearinghouse

100 E. Second St. c. 1935 This building formerly housed the Irwin Farmer’s Store and Irwin Motor Co. It was a Hudson automobile and Reo truck dealership. It still has its garage doors on the south side. It’s one of Madison’s only examples of the architectural style of Art Moderne.

6

Madison Hotel

Corner of Second St. & Mulberry St. The Madison Hotel was torn down by the 1940’s. It was also known as the Jefferson Hotel. It is now a large parking lot.

7

Central Hotel

301 Mulberry St. c. 1834 This is Madison’s oldest and longest running hotel and tavern. The tavern portion was originally on the second floor while the lobby and parlor area were on the first floor. The building retains its ornate features on the exterior. It is still an active tavern.

8

The Hentz Bakery

316 Mulberry St. c. 1830 The bakery was run by the Hentz Family from 1912 to 1980. It was an important staple to downtown Madison. Front counter with baked goods pictured on the back. On the side of the building is a large mural painted in 2021 that shows off the sense of community in Madison.

9

Former Bus Station

208 E. Second St. It was a Greyhound Bus Station and a White Star Bus Station. It now houses the Thomas Family Winery.