Greensburg's Famous Tower Tree (and Erdmann Family Tree?)

Ed and I were returning home from Cincinnati along I-74 and impulsively decided to exit at the Greensburg, Indiana exit to take a peek at their famous tree that grows out of the top of their courthouse tower.

For those who are unaware of this phenomena, the first tree sprout appeared in the early 1870s and its descendant presently grows majestically from an opening in the tower. Historical details are available at this "website". Pay special attention to the last paragraph where it describes the theory as to how the tree is watered! ;>

The square is amazing. It is two or three times the size of Lebanon's square and FULL of businesses. Yes, you have offices of attorneys and title companies, but there were craft supply stores, hardware stores, etc. that were BUSY! It seems rare nowadays to have the traditional courthouse square that is ALIVE. Some day, I would like to return just to shop.

THEN, we parked on the east side of the square and, as we got out of our car, I looked up to see our last name, "Erdmann", featured on top of one of the buildings. It was eery! I couldn't' help myself. I entered an attorney's office and explained my curiosity. The staff was wonderful in referring me to the county's genealogist, Mr. Russell Wilhoit.

I located his email address and wrote him to inquire the origin of the Erdmann family. He was wonderful! Immediately, he compiled some photocopies of obituaries of the Erdmann family revealing that Charles Erdmann was originally from Switzerland and came to Greensburg from Cincinnati. He opened a cigar factory that was called C. E. Erdmann & Sons. One of the sons was George E. Erdmann whose name is featured on the building that hosted their business. George's son, Morris, moved to Hammond, Indiana and I can't help but wonder if Ed's family originated from there. We'll definitely have to pursue it one day.

In any case, one never knows where an unplanned adventure may lead them. We began searching for a tree and may have found a family tree at the same time!

If time allows, always be willing to turn off the main road to see where a road less traveled may take you!

The Secret was presented on "Oprah" and is endorsed by a long list of respected and established individuals. Its message should not be challenged and it only makes sense.

I began reading the book "The Secret" over six months ago. At the time, it sounded too easy and/or perhaps I was too cynical at the time but, in any case, I put it down. Recently, I have been working to redefine my life. Part of that process was to rid myself of negativity and I picked up the book once again. Also, I acquired the DVD that portrays the book's content in a video format. I have decided to practice its teaching.

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I believe we are meant to share the good we are given. I am happy to have done so with this posting. Good wishes!