Anderson, Indiana, located in Madison County, is a prime site for business or for residence. It boasts an excellent university, an experienced workforce that is constantly being re-skilled, and a cost of living that has most people smiling. If you are considering moving to Anderson you will discover exactly what you are looking for.
History:
The city took its name from Chief William Anderson, and became the Seat of Madison County in 1827. Its early fortunes were somewhat erratic though, with the Town being incorporated in December 1838, and then reverting to Village status a year later. In 1849, it was incorporated for a second time because of many new commercial ventures starting up. However, Anderson reverted to Village status in 1852 again. Events finally smiled when the Indianapolis Bellefontaine Railroad arrived in town. This led to the third and final incorporation of Anderson as a City on August 28, 1865. The discovery of natural gas in 1887 was a major milestone and attracted many new enterprises keen on using this cheap new resource. Fortunes dipped again in 1912 when the gas deposits ran out and many businesses moved on elsewhere. This galvanized the City Planners into action and the local economy was once again on track thanks, to the arrival of clothing factories, and many other new forms of commerce too. Automobile production rose to prominence with 17 different types of automobiles produced in Anderson. Moreover, with necessity being the mother of invention, the City became synonymous with several new devices too – the gas regulator and the stamp vending machine being just two of many useful inventions that spring to mind.
Tourism:
From historic Theatres like the Paramount and ancient Great Mounds, to live horse racing - from scenic parks to exciting casino action. Anderson and Madison County, Indiana is where you will feel at home. The city also has great conference and banqueting facilities, sporting arenas and recreation venues. Add to that an array of accommodation offerings, shopping centers and a huge variety of restaurants, and you have everything you want for a peaceful retreat or a great get-a-way with family and friends. Check out The Anderson/Madison County Visitors & Convention Bureau website before you finalize your travel plans.
Economy:
A low cost of living combined with a rich multicultural quality of life saw Anderson grow to the 10th largest city in Indiana as well as becoming the County Seat of Madison. Forbes has endorsed this by ranking Anderson 98th on their "List for 100 Best Places for Businesses among Smaller U. S. Metro Areas" in 2007. The Retail Sector is the largest employer accounting for 25 percent of jobs, with Health Services following up with 14 percent. The City Planners are implementing programs aimed at correcting the effect on local commerce and industry of the shutdown of the General Motors plant in the middle of the recession.