History of Peru

Foundation and First Mentions

The city of Peru was officially founded in 1834 by William N. Hood. Situated on the picturesque banks of the Wabash River, it almost immediately became the administrative centre of Miami County. Before the arrival of settlers, these lands were historically inhabited by the indigenous Miami people, whose heritage can still be traced in the region's history.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small settlement into a developed city was driven by a successful combination of geographical and economic factors:

• Waterways: Proximity to the Wabash River and the construction of the Wabash and Erie Canal played a decisive role, connecting the city to major trade routes of the USA.
• Railway Hub: Subsequently, the development of the railway network strengthened the city's status as a significant logistics centre in Indiana.
• Trade and Industry: Convenient logistics facilitated the rapid growth of the grain trade and the development of local manufacturing.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The most vibrant chapter in the city's history was its transformation into the "Circus Capital of the World". In the late 19th century, entrepreneur Ben Wallace organised winter quarters for his circus here. Soon, other major troupes followed his example. This event radically changed the cultural and economic landscape of the city, making the circus industry a cornerstone of the town and gifting the location a unique identity that endures to this day.

Chronology of Events

• 1834 — William N. Hood officially founds the city of Peru, choosing a strategically important location on the riverbank.
• 1837 — The opening of a section of the Wabash and Erie Canal connects the settlement to major trade routes and accelerates its development.
• 1854 — The laying of the first railway line through the city turns it into a significant transport hub for the region.
• 1884 — Ben Wallace organises winter quarters for his circus here, marking the beginning of the city's unique circus history.
• 1891 — Cole Porter is born in the city; he would later become one of the most famous composers and songwriters in the USA.
• 1913 — The Great Flood causes damage to infrastructure but leads to a massive modernisation of the city's flood protection system.
• 1920s — The city reaches the peak of its fame as the "Circus Capital of the World", hosting the country's largest troupes for the winter.
• 1942 — The opening of a naval air station (later Grissom Air Force Base) nearby gives a new impulse to the regional economy.
• 1960 — The Peru Amateur Circus is founded, allowing local youth to preserve and continue the traditions of professional performers.
• 1971 — The opening of the International Circus Hall of Fame cements the city's status as a guardian of circus heritage.
• Present time — The city hosts the annual Circus City Festival, attracting tourists from all over the world.

Stages of Formation and Development

The history of the city of Peru is an example of how geographical location and the enterprising spirit of residents can turn a small settlement into a unique cultural centre of the USA. Below are the key milestones that defined the modern appearance of the city:

• The Wabash and Erie Canal Era. The launch of navigation on the canal in the 1830s became the first powerful driver of the economy. This event integrated the city into the national trade network, ensuring rapid population growth and commercial development through the transit of grain and goods.
• Railway Industrialisation. From the mid-19th century, the city transformed into an important railway hub. The intersection of several lines attracted industrialists and allowed for the opening of factories, which strengthened the economic stability of the region and reduced dependence on river navigation.
• The "Circus Capital" Phenomenon. The establishment of winter quarters for major circuses in the late 19th century created a unique economic niche. This not only provided jobs for hundreds of artists and craftspeople but also formed a distinct cultural brand that continues to serve the city's image today.
• Urban Planning Reform after 1913. The consequences of the devastating flood forced authorities to reconsider their approach to city planning. The construction of a modern levee system and infrastructure updates made the city safe for living and investment.
• Military-Industrial Impulse. The opening of the airbase (now Grissom) in the 1940s brought federal funds and new jobs to the region, becoming an important factor of demographic and economic support in the post-war years.
• Development of the Experience Economy. The creation of the Hall of Fame and the annual circus festival in the second half of the 20th century allowed for the monetisation of rich historical heritage, turning culture and tourism into significant items in the city budget.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of the city of Peru represents a classic example of Midwest development, where the functionality of a trade hub combines with the civic grandeur of an administrative centre. Urban development proceeded from the Wabash River inland, forming a compact historical centre with a regular grid of streets, characteristic of American cities of the 19th century.

Eras and Architectural Styles

The city's appearance was formed during periods of economic upturn, reflected in the changing architectural trends:

• Late 19th Century (Victorian Era). The main part of the commercial centre is built up with buildings in the Italianate style. They are characterised by brick facades, tall narrow windows with arched tops, and decorative cornices with brackets. This is the legacy of the railway boom and the flourishing of trade.
• Early 20th Century (Era of Prosperity). During this period, monumental public buildings appeared in the city. The predominant styles became Neoclassicism and the Second Renaissance Revival, symbolising the stability and grandeur of state institutions in the USA.
• Industrial and Circus Heritage. A special layer of architecture consists of functional structures—huge barns and circus winter quarters. These structures, although utilitarian in essence, are unique monuments to the era when the city was the circus capital of the world.

Iconic Buildings and Districts

Several key objects play a decisive role in forming the visual image of the city:

• Miami County Courthouse. The undisputed architectural landmark of the centre. Built from limestone, the building stands out with majestic columns, intricate carving, and a tall clock tower. It is a striking example of civic architecture designed to inspire respect for the law.
• Historic Commercial District. The central streets of the city have preserved a cohesive ensemble of two- and three-storey brick buildings from the turn of the century. A walk through this district allows one to see authentic shopfronts and architectural details preserved from the times when the businesses of circus owners and local merchants flourished here.

Notable Personalities

The history of the city of Peru is rich with talented people whose names are known far beyond the state of Indiana. From Broadway legends to stars of the circus arena, these individuals have made an invaluable contribution to the culture and history of the USA.

• Cole Porter
  Composer and Songwriter
  The city's most famous native, who became an icon of 20th-century American music. Porter gave the world dozens of Broadway musicals and timeless hits such as "Night and Day" and "I've Got You Under My Skin". Tourists often visit his burial site and childhood home to pay tribute to the great maestro.
• Ben Wallace
  Circus Tycoon and Entrepreneur
  The man thanks to whom the city received the title "Circus Capital of the World". In the 1880s, he organised extensive winter quarters for his circus here, creating unique infrastructure and jobs. His legacy lies at the heart of the modern city's tourism identity.
• Emmett Kelly
  Circus Artist, Clown
  A legendary performer who created the world-famous character of the sad clown "Weary Willie". His career was closely linked to the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus, which was based in the local winter quarters. Kelly is considered one of the most influential clowns in the history of the global circus industry.
• Ole Olsen
  Comedian and Vaudeville Actor
  Born here, this artist became famous as part of the celebrated comedy duo "Olsen and Johnson". Their eccentric shows conquered Broadway and Hollywood in the 1930s and 40s. Olsen became a symbol of success for those from the American heartland in the entertainment industry.
• Clyde Beatty
  Wild Animal Tamer
  A famous trainer of lions and tigers, whose name became a household word. He honed his skills working with animals in the city's winter quarters. Beatty not only performed in the arena but also became a hero of films and books, popularising circus art.
• Kyle Macy
  Basketball Player and Coach
  An outstanding athlete and graduate of the local high school. Macy achieved great heights in basketball: he became a 1979 Olympic champion and had a successful career in the NBA. For Indiana, where basketball is often regarded as a "second religion", he is a significant sporting figure.