on Feb 10th, 2010Historic Fort Harrison: An Indianapolis Treasure!
Once an active military post, historic Fort Harrison is now home to a state park, world-class golf course and some of the most beautiful and unique Indianapolis real estate you’ll find!
The Early Years
Fort Benjamin Harrison has played an important role in the history of Indianapolis Indiana and the United States since the early years of the 20th century. In 1904, the U.S. Congress approved the purchase of land and the establishment of a military fort about 12 miles northeast of Indianapolis. The fort was named for the 23rd United States president and Indiana native, Benjamin Harrison. Construction on most of the buildings was completed in 1908. In the early days, travel from the fort to Indianapolis was via the interurban train station. During World War I, the fort became a mobilization center for national defense and a training center for 10,000 railroad specialists.
Between the World War I and II, the fort served as a Civilian Conservation Corps center for reforestation and soil conservation work. At the onset of World War II, the fort became a Midwest induction and logistical support center. In 1944, Italian and German prisoners of war from Rommels Afrika Korps arrived for detention at Fort Benjamin Harrison. The Midwest Disciplinary Barracks ultimately housed 6,200 prisoners. The fort was abandoned in 1947, but soon reopened as the Fort Benjamin Harrison Air Force Base. In 1949, Fort Benjamin Harrison became the Administrative and Training Center for the Army. The Defense Finance Center was dedicated in 1953 and the Defense Information School in 1966.
Today
Fort Harrison real estate is like nothing else in the Indianapolis area. Many of the charming residences, home to military families for more than 90 years, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Wide wrap-around porches, elegant moldings, exposed brick walls, built-in bookcases and cabinets, and a fireplace in every room are just some of the historic features of Fort Harrison homes. Most of these properties have been recently restored to include all the modern amenities buyers want without compromising the vintage beauty of the homes.
Although the fort is now known simply as Fort Harrison and is no longer an active 
military post, it continues to serve as the location for Defense Finance and Accounting Services, which manages payroll and services for the men and women serving in our nation’s armed forces. It is also home to a state park where visitors can enjoy horseback riding, miles of public hiking trails, and a championship golf course.