Under $100K Sunday – c.1915 Indiana Foursquare For Sale Under $70K – The Bennett House

Own a piece of Lawrence County limestone history! Known as the Bennett House, Indiana Limestone has owned the home since its construction in 1930. Although in need of a full renovation, the features of this property are truly stunning. With original trim work, solid wood doors, hardwood floors, an original claw foot tub and stately limestone accents, this project would truly be a labor of love.

If interested in a property, please contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.

176 Lafayette St, Oolitic, IN 47451    $69,900

The realtor’s 1930 build date is incorrect as Rex Bennett and his family was living in the home  per the 1920 US Census which was actually taken in 1919. Rex Erwin Bennet (1891-1961) lived here with his wife, Lucy Mae Benge Bennett (1896-1997, m.1913), and their children, Vivian, Mary, Gayle, Dorothy Bud, Wayne, Mick and Alice. Rex began his career with the limestone company as a bookkeeper and retired as supervisor of properties.

Oolitic, Indiana, got its name from the geological term “oolite,” which refers to a type of sedimentary rock composed of small, spherical grains called ooids. These grains are typically formed in warm, shallow marine environments and are made up of concentric layers of calcium carbonate. The town of Oolitic is located in an area known for its rich deposits of oolitic limestone, which has been extensively quarried and used in construction.

The presence of this distinctive limestone, which is highly prized for its durability and aesthetic qualities, played a significant role in the naming of the town when it was established in the late 19th century. The name “Oolitic” directly reflects the local geology and the importance of the limestone industry to the town’s history and economy.

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Oolitic, Indiana, is a small town located in Lawrence County, in the southern part of the state. It is situated just a few miles north of Bedford, the county seat, and is part of the Bloomington Metropolitan Area. Here’s a description of Oolitic:

Overview:

• Population: Oolitic is a small, close-knit community with a population of around 1,100 residents. The town has a friendly, small-town atmosphere where many residents know each other.

History and Industry:

• Limestone Industry: Oolitic is deeply connected to the limestone industry, which has been a cornerstone of the local economy for over a century. The town is located in the heart of Indiana’s “Limestone Belt,” an area famous for its high-quality oolitic limestone. This type of stone has been used in many famous buildings across the United States, including the Empire State Building and the Pentagon.
• Town Name: The town’s name reflects its geological roots, as “oolitic” refers to the type of limestone found in the area.

Geography and Setting:

• Rural Charm: Oolitic is set in a rural, picturesque part of Indiana, surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and quarries. The town’s natural surroundings make it a quiet and scenic place to live.
• Proximity to Bedford: The town’s location near Bedford provides residents with access to additional amenities, such as shopping, dining, and healthcare facilities, while maintaining a quieter, more laid-back environment.

Community and Lifestyle:

• Community Spirit: Oolitic has a strong sense of community, with local events and gatherings helping to bring residents together. The town’s small size fosters a neighborly atmosphere.
• Schools: Oolitic is served by the North Lawrence Community Schools district, which provides education to the town’s children.
• Parks and Recreation: The town has a few local parks and recreational areas, and its proximity to outdoor attractions like the Hoosier National Forest offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature.

Challenges:

• Economic Dependence on Limestone: Like many small towns with economies tied to a specific industry, Oolitic’s fortunes have fluctuated with the health of the limestone industry. Economic diversification can be a challenge.
• Limited Amenities: As a small town, Oolitic has limited commercial and entertainment options. Residents often travel to nearby Bedford or Bloomington for a wider range of services and activities.

Overall, Oolitic, Indiana, is a quaint and historically significant town with deep ties to the limestone industry, offering a quiet, rural lifestyle with a strong sense of community.

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