About Versailles

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Introduction

Co-founder of the Walgreen Pharmacy chain, James Tyson, was a native of Versailles. After his death in 1941 he left a legacy to residents that has since built a gym, library and church, along with many smaller community projects.

Summary

Founded in 1818 on a hundred-acre tract, Versailles was named in honor of founder John DePauw’s native city in France. Versailles is located in rural Ripley County, in the southeastern corner of Indiana 52 miles from Cincinnati. 1800 residents reside in the 1.5 miles of the town. This is beautiful, peaceful countryside with many miles of country roads. Picturesque Laughery Creek flows through the area. As the county seat, Versailles is home to the Ripley County Courthouse and other government, political, historic and social activities.

Transportation

Heading west out of Cincinnati along U.S. Rt. 50, you’ll travel a scenic 50 miles to reach Versailles. Greater Cincinnati International Airport is 42 miles away, with regional airports, North Vernon, and Greensburg/Decatur less than a 20-minute drive.

Hospitals

Versailles residents can drive a short distance in either direction to reach two regional community hospitals: Margaret Mary Community Hospital 16 miles away in Batesville, or King’s Daughters Hospital and Health Services 22 miles away in Madison.

Shopping

Most of your shopping needs can be served in town, but for more extensive shopping a ride in the car is necessary.

Recreation

The Ripley County Historical Society is well known for its archives, historical information, and museum. Many historical homes and buildings line the Versailles streets, including the Fernando G. Taylor House (where the Ripley County Tourism Bureau office is located) and Tyson United Methodist Church, which are both on the National Register of Historic Places. Signs for Morgan's Raid are located on and near the square to mark the famous raid of 1863, and a driving tour of the raid is available. Recreation takes many forms here; the Southeastern Indiana YMCA is located in nearby Batesville. Versailles State Park, located just outside town off U.S. 50, is the second largest state park in Indiana. Annually the park draws over 400,000 people for camping, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, and more. The park also hosts an annual Bluegrass festival. The historic Busching Bridge near the park entrance was built in 1885. With festivals and farmers markets, as well as old-fashioned pursuits like muzzle loading and turkey calling, there’s a country feel to life here.