Bluffton Lodge #145

The ‘bluff’ over the Wabash River was originally settled around 1838. Bluffton was incorporated in 1851 and was a primitive village, subject to floods of the Wabash and outbreaks of malaria in its early years. The railroad came to town in 1869 allowing the transport for Bluffton’s numerous wood-products and brought prosperity to the town. Ditching of the numerous swamps in the vicinity reduced the hazards of floods and malaria. In past years, pianos, windmills, furniture, shoes, radios, gloves, washing machines, and television tubes were important local products. Today, industries such as methanol production, aluminum, submersible motors, and other technologies are increasingly significant.

Bluffton, the county seat of Wells County, enjoys the distinction of having been designated many years ago as the “Parlor City of Indiana.”

This fitting name has endured for the last 40 years and no other city of the state has ever attempted to dispute Bluffton’s right to the title.

The city well merits the reputation of being the most beautiful and well-kept city of the Hoosier state. It is picturesquely situated on the south bank of the far-famed Wabash River, crowning high bluffs from which it derives its name and which give it a commanding view of the surrounding country.

It is a veritable paradise, combining health, wealth, beauty, comforts and pleasures, and with its miles of finely-paved streets, handsome public buildings, many beautiful and modern residences, broad and well-kept lawns, hundreds of stately shade trees, modern disposal plant, and perfect model of cleanliness and health, the city is indeed a place of beauty and attractiveness which have won renown as the “parlor city” of the entire state.

The appellation of “Parlor City of Indiana” is traced back to the beginning of the century, possibly two years earlier, following completion of the first big contracts for street paving with modern hard surface material. A visitor to the city first applied the name.

—The Bluffton Evening News-Banner, September 15, 1937

Bluffton Lodge # 145 F.&A.M.