INDIANA — Indiana Landmarks has released its 2025 list of the “10 Most Endangered” historic places in the state, highlighting structures on the brink of extinction. The annual list aims to draw attention to historic buildings and landmarks that are too important to lose, including a historic hotel, a classic gymnasium, and a turn-of-the-century neighborhood.
The list is a statewide effort to spur action and find solutions for properties facing demolition or severe neglect. This year’s list includes several repeat entries, underscoring the ongoing challenges in preserving Indiana’s architectural heritage.
Mineral Springs Hotel, Paoli
The Mineral Springs Hotel in Paoli, a former entry on the list, is back in the spotlight due to recent storm damage. Constructed in 1895, the hotel was a symbol of luxury, featuring electric lights and a steam-powered generator, aiming to compete with nearby resorts. It served as a community hub with a billiard hall, ballroom, and opera house before closing in 1958.
The vacant building has been deteriorating, and a March storm blew off its temporary roof, accelerating its decline. Indiana Landmarks hopes to find a developer with the vision and financial resources to restore the hotel, which could be a catalyst for revitalizing the entire courthouse square.
Shields Memorial Gymnasium, Seymour
Seymour’s Shields Memorial Gymnasium returns to the endangered list after first appearing in 2021. Built in 1941 by Works Progress Administration (WPA) workers, the massive gym was once one of Indiana’s largest. The property owner has indicated it may be auctioned, with no guarantees against demolition.
Despite strong local support for its preservation, the building’s prime location in the National Register-listed Walnut Street Historic District makes it a target for developers who might prefer to demolish it for new construction. Indiana Landmarks and Preserve Historic La Porte have offered to fund a study to assess renovation costs, but school officials have declined the offer.
Other Endangered Landmarks
West Side Recreation Club, South Bend: An important landmark and one of the last commercial remnants of a once-thriving black business district has a damaged roof that continues to compromise the structure, with parts of the upper walls at risk of collapse.
College Hall, Merom: A historic five-story building at the Merom Camp and Retreat Center is in urgent need of repairs to address crumbling masonry and failing systems.
Sposeep Building, Wabash: One of the city’s oldest commercial buildings, the rugged limestone structure is at risk of demolition if a viable reuse plan is not found.
Rudicel-Montgomery Polygonal Barn, Shelby County: This rare, 12-sided barn from 1910 is one of a dwindling number in the state and requires significant investment to be saved.
Kiwanis Field, La Porte: School officials have suggested that it would be more cost-effective to build a new stadium than to repair the 1950s Streamline Moderne fieldhouse.
Emily Kimbrough Historic District, Muncie: A proposal to install four roundabouts is a threat to the character and walkability of this historic neighborhood.
Traders Point Covered Bridge, Marion County: A rare 1880s covered bridge that was moved to private land in 1959 requires rehabilitation and a new home.
