Crawfordsville Main Street and city officials gathered Tuesday to dedicate a new commemorative sign at Marie Canine Plaza, recognizing the donors and partners who helped shape the downtown space and its continued improvements.
The sign, installed at the plaza on East Main Street, acknowledges the community collaboration behind the site and recent upgrades, including the replacement of the original fountain with a new centerpiece inspired by the historic Crawford Hotel, which occupied the block from 1900 to 1973.
The 2024 fountain incorporates architectural elements from the former hotel, including “C.H.” emblems cast from a salvaged entrance crest, connecting the modern plaza to its historic roots.
Crawfordsville Main Street Executive Director Jami Harrington said the new sign reflects both the history and the people who made the project possible.
“Today we decide to dedicate this new sign to celebrate many individuals, donors, and partners who helped bring this vision to life,” Harrington said. “Your generosity and belief in Crawfordsville made it possible to create and maintain spaces like this. This sign is more than just a marker. It stands as a reminder that the community came together to make great things happen.”
Harrington also recognized Becky and Brad Hurt, longtime supporters and former members of Crawfordsville Main Street, for their role in revitalizing downtown. The couple has spent decades rehabilitating buildings and operating retail storefronts, helping spur additional investment from other property owners.
“They were the groundwork of all of Crawfordsville Main Street’s existence,” Harrington said. “People like them care.”
Several donors attended the ceremony, including Crawfordsville Main Street’s first president, Les Hearson, who is also among those recognized for contributing to the sign.
