On a hot August day in 1988, five women from Pendleton gathered in the cozy dining room of the Grey Goose Inn, and made a decision that would change the future of their town. Ruth Berline, Sandi Butler, Loueva Hagemier, Zilpha Wood, and Helen Reske knew Pendleton’s rich history was in danger of fading away, and they couldn’t let that happen. So, they founded Historic Fall Creek, Pendleton Settlement—a group dedicated to preserving the unique heritage of their community.

Pendleton is a place full of pride for its history and culture, and the founding of HFC,PS was a way to make that pride official. Supported by local leaders like Charlene Daugherty, Letty Gray, Judy Wagner, Marilyn Watkins, and Maude Ward, the group quickly gained momentum. It wasn’t just the founders—they were joined by passionate residents who cared about preserving Pendleton's past for future generations.

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When Indiana became a state in 1816, Pendleton was part of the land that would form Madison County. The town was the site of many “firsts,” from the first white settler to the first mill, and even the first courthouse. One of its most infamous firsts? In 1825, three men were hanged for killing Native Americans, marking a dark chapter in the town's history.

The original board of HFC,PS understood that Pendleton’s history, architecture, and landmarks were worth saving—and they wanted to ensure everyone could experience and appreciate them. To do this, they reached out for professional guidance from the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana (HLFI), the second-largest preservation foundation in the country.

Under the advice of HLFI’s Michael Carter, the group took legal steps to incorporate and become a 501c(3) nonprofit. They were also encouraged to apply for the National Register of Historic Places, a designation that would officially recognize Pendleton’s cultural and architectural value.

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A surge of energy followed as the group worked hard to raise the necessary funds. This included hosting home tours in town, where residents opened their doors to help the cause. One of the key requirements for the National Register application was proof of community support, and the Pendleton Town Council showed their commitment by declaring the town a Historic District in June 1989.

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Thanks to widespread support, Pendleton’s National Register nomination was submitted, and in April 1991, the town was officially added to the State Register of Historic Sites. Just two months later, on June 27, 1991, Pendleton was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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To celebrate this monumental achievement, HFC,PS, Inc. threw a historic, settlement-style celebration at Falls Park—the very place where Pendleton's history began. The joy and pride of the community was palpable, knowing that their efforts had not only saved their past but had also secured it for future generations to explore and enjoy.

This wasn't just about preserving buildings—it was about preserving the soul of Pendleton. And thanks to the passion of its residents, the town's legacy lives on stronger than ever.

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