Elkhart, Indiana (Images of America)

Some 200 years ago, when the Potawatomi Indians were still among the region's primary inhabitants, there was a winding river that was christened "Coeur de Cerf"-the heart of a stag. Legend has it that the earliest settlers were captivated by a small island that resembled an elk's heart. By 1832, Havilah Beardsley began to lay the foundation for what would soon be known as the village of Elkhart. The little island which inspired the Elkhart name would later be called "Island Park." There were only a few dozen lots in that first plat, but by 1858, Elkhart was incorporated as a growing and bustling new city. Today, Elkhart is recognized as being one of northern Indiana's most enterprising communities, as well as one of the most culturally diverse. Throughout its long and illustrious history, Elkhart has been blessed with a celebration of successes, in fields ranging from musical instruments to pharmaceuticals to recreational vehicles. The images in this book offer a glimpse into the events that helped shape Elkhart into the marvelous city it has become, truly, the "city with a heart" in both name and spirit.