During the Civil War, Doctor James Ford served as a surgeon in the U.S. Army. After his time in the military, Dr. Ford operated a medical practice in his home. Mr. and Mrs. Ford bought property in 1838, and originally built a small one-room brick house for their small family. Over the years, the home was renovated several times, resulting in four additions. Today, the house stands two stories high and has been restored to its 1875 appearance. Visitors can gain first hand experience of daily life in the 19th Century at this Indiana attraction.
Interactive displays are part of what makes the Doctor James Ford Historic Home so unique. Upon entering the home a gruesome display greets the guests. The room is a surgical scene that shows how Dr. Ford may have performed surgery in his home, a practice very typical in that era. Visitors are free to explore the home in no particular order, but guided tours are also available. Recorded messages help onlookers by providing addition information about the home and the Ford family.
Another main attraction at the Doctor James Ford Historic Home is the beautiful Victorian flower garden. Guests can also check out Dr. Ford’s medicinal herbs garden. Gardeners and nature lovers especially love to linger around the garden, enjoying the scenery and relaxing near the beautiful fountain.
The entire home was decorated with close attention to detail. That was the goal of Richard Ford, the late Dr. Ford’s great grandson, who began restoration of the home in 2002. The parlor room of the home is a luxurious space that features gorgeous antique furniture. A small library and an antique photo viewer are just a few of the interesting artifacts found in the parlor room. The master bedroom of the home is brightly decorated with very regal red and gold wallpaper and classic oak furniture. Indianapolis kids can get a glimpse of life in the past at this historic Indiana site. They especially love to see the nursery room in the Dr. James Ford Historic Home, where dominoes and a rocking horse are the few toys on display.
Since 2005, the Doctor James Ford Historic Home has been a Hoosier destination, and a great day trip from Indianapolis. It’s located just two hours north of the Circle City. While you’re in the area, head east to Peru, Indiana and check out the International Circus Hall of Fame, or to Warsaw, Indiana to experience the Warsaw Biblical Gardens. Northeast Indiana is full of fun and exciting things to do, and it’s a great destination for a day trip from Indianapolis. A small admission fee is charged to enter the home, and group tours are available for a small fee as well.
Doctor James Ford Historic Home
177 West Hill Street
Wabash, Indiana
260.563.8686
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