What’s it like in Brookville?
Brookville is a scenic small town tucked into the hills of southeastern Indiana, where the Whitewater River and Brookville Lake meet. Whether it’s the historic downtown, a walk along the river, or a day out on the lake, Brookville knows how to make a quiet first impression.
Small Town Breakdown No. 31: Brookville, Indiana
In 2025 we are highlighting 52 small towns across the state of Indiana in 52 weeks. For our 31st small town breakdown of the year, we’re going from Fortville in Hancock County to Brookville in Franklin County. Brookville is 1 hour and 30 minutes southeast of Indianapolis, 20 miles south of Connersville, and 45 minutes northwest of Cincinnati.
The History of Franklin County and Brookville, Indiana
Franklin County was formed in 1811 from parts of Dearborn, Clark and Jefferson counties, and was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin.
Brookville, the county seat, was founded even earlier in 1808, making it one of the oldest towns in the state. It sits both on “the first high ground” at the juncture of the East and West Forks of the Whitewater River and then 70-80 feet lower along the river plain. Locals refer to them as “the hill” and “the bottom.” The Whitewater Canal was completed in 1836 and connected Brookville to the Ohio River, helping turn the town into a regional trading hub.
As of the 2024 census, Brookville’s population was 2,655, making it the largest town in Franklin County and the 188th-largest in the state.
Things to Do In or Near Brookville, Indiana
Brookville is best known for Brookville Lake, one of Indiana’s largest reservoirs. With 5,260 acres of water and thousands of acres of surrounding land, it’s a go-to destination for boating, fishing, camping, hiking, and beach days.
On the lake’s east side, Mounds State Recreation Area offers scenic overlooks and plenty of trails. And on the north end with its own 200-acre Whitewater Lake, Whitewater Memorial State Park is perfect for horseback riding or a family picnic.
The annual Franklin County Fair is held every July and is complete with livestock shows, tractor pulls, a demolition derby, flat drags, carnival rides, fair food and more.
If you’re a history buff, explore downtown Brookville’s antique stores and historic architecture that led it to being added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. Or you can head south of town on U.S. Highway 52 to check out the Little Cedar Grove Baptist Church that was constructed in 1812. It’s the oldest church in Indiana still standing on its original foundation.
Places to Eat or Grab a Drink in Brookville, Indiana
If you’re thinking of breakfast or caffeine, Coffee on Main is the spot. Locals rave about the muffins, coffee, service and cozy atmosphere. They’ve got over 160 Google reviews and a 4.9-star rating.
Next up is El Reparo, a Mexican restaurant with big flavor. Their tacos, margaritas and prices are tough to beat, and they’ve piled up nearly 800 Google reviews with a 4.5-star rating.
The family-owned Dairy Cottage has been around since 1958 and serves up chicken dinners, sandwiches, hoagies, seafood and a full menu of sweet treats, including their classic Cyclones.
Going to Brookville Lake? Ainsley’s Cafe and Harbor Bar, although a Liberty address, is located right on the eastern shoreline with lake views, live music, and savory bites like burgers, seafood, steaks and wraps.
Indiana Governors Who Lived in Brookville
Brookville has served as home to four Indiana governors, including three that served consecutively.
James Brown Ray was Indiana’s fourth governor from 1825-31. He was born in Kentucky, studied law in Cincinnati, and eventually established a legal career in Brookville before becoming governor.
Noah Noble was Indiana’s fifth governor from 1831-37. He was born in Virginia, moved to Kentucky during his youth, and later in 1816 to Brookville, where he worked in the land speculation business. While in office as governor, he played a major role in canal and road development across the Hoosier State.
David Wallace was Indiana’s sixth governor from 1837-40. He was born in Pennsylvania, moved to Ohio and then Brookville before going on to graduate from West Point in 1821.
Abram Hammond was Indiana’s 12th governor from 1860-61. He was born in Vermont but moved to Brookville when he was six years old.
That’s it for small town breakdown No. 31 of 2025. Where should we head next?
