IOOF Building 

Around 1912, this impressive brick structure stood as the I.O.O.F. (Independent Order of Odd Fellows) building in downtown Fortville. Built in 1896, its distinctive architecture with arched windows, detailed brickwork, and a steep gabled roof made it a centerpiece of Main Street. The I.O.O.F. lodge was more than just a meeting hall—it was a hub of community life, hosting social gatherings, charitable events, and organizational meetings that supported families in times of need. The ground floor often housed local businesses, such as the millinery shop seen in the photo, while the upper floor was reserved for lodge activities. Buildings like this reflect Fortville’s growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when fraternal organizations played a central role in small-town civic and social life. Today, the I.O.O.F. building remains a reminder of Fortville’s strong sense of community and its rich architectural past.