The Military Park in Downtown Indianapolis, IN was donated to the city of Indianapolis by Congress and has served more than one purpose for the city. The first state fair of Indianapolis was held on the park in 1832. The military importance of this park became known in 1846 when over 300 troops were drilled by General Lee Wallace for the Mexican War. During the Civil War, the park was once again used for the staging of the military troops. In the 1860s, much of the park was destroyed by military animals and any resemblance it had to a park were lost. In 1916, it was given the name of Camp Sullivan Park. By 1969, its acknowledgment of a military park was noticed by it nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.
Eventually, George Merritt, a neighbor to the park initiated plans to the city to renovate the park and acknowledge it as a Military park as well as an urban park for the city. With the help of some city council members, the plans were carried out and the renovation was eventually completed. The plans included a central fountain and sidewalks with patterns of military badges. Military artifacts were put on display in the park. A huge military pond was also created.
In the 1980s, different organizations donated the money and time to restore some of the deterioration that had occurred to the park. Lights were installed, trees planted and landscaping was completed to make this park an area that would attract people. Today it's used for many outdoor events. It's a great place to sit and eat or listen to music or participate in activities.
Located on the corner of West and New York Street, the Military Park is also the site for many different events and activities. The Indy Jazz Festival is held at the Military Park. The Indy Irish Festival is also held at the Military Park.
