Thorntown, Indiana – A treasured piece of Thorntown’s history is stepping into a new chapter. Lions Park, formerly managed by the

Thorntown Lions Club, is now officially part of the Thorntown Parks System. Following the club’s closure in December 2024 due to declining membership, the park was generously donated to the town, ensuring its continued legacy as a beloved gathering space for the community.

Now under the management of Thorntown Parks and Recreation, Lions Park remains a key recreational hub along the scenic Big 4 Trail, providing both residents and visitors with a place to relax, explore, and connect. The park features a shelter house, open green spaces, and a large BBQ pit at the north end, which will be overseen by the Knights of Pythias beginning in summer 2025.

A Hub for Community Events and Growth

The transition of Lions Park into the town’s park system paves the way for new and expanded community events. The Holiday on Main celebration will now be hosted at the park, bringing festive cheer to Thorntown with the continued tradition of the Angel Tree Project in 2025. Additionally, Lions Park remains an integral part of the Festival of Turning Leaves, held the last full weekend of September each year. The park will serve as the home base for the pancake breakfast, cornhole tournaments, and BBQ pit events, strengthening its role as a gathering place for both longtime residents and new visitors.

Thorntown’s Parks Board is also exploring improvements to enhance visitor experience. One of the key initiatives includes a year-round public restroom facility, with research underway to determine feasibility and funding options.

Honoring the Past, Looking to the Future

Beyond its recreational value, Lions Park holds historical significance—it sits on land once traversed by the railroad, and local lore suggests that Abraham Lincoln himself may have ridden through the area. In honor of its roots, the park will retain the Lions Park name as a tribute on the Lions Club’s impact on the town.

In addition to expanding its programming, the town hopes to include Lions Park in Thorntown’s annual Volunteer Day, held in both spring and fall. This initiative would encourage community members to come together and help maintain and enhance the park.

“Our town is growing, and with that growth comes an opportunity to enhance our parks and community spaces,” said Thorntown Clerk Koren Gray. “While we are saddened by the dissolution of the Lions Club, we are incredibly excited to carry on the legacy of Lions Park. This space will continue to bring people together, support local events, and welcome visitors to our town.”

The park’s shelters remain free for public use, but reservations are required. Those interested can book a shelter by emailing shelterrental@thorntown.in.gov or calling 765-436-2205.

With its deep-rooted history and bright future, Lions Park is set to remain a vibrant part of Thorntown’s community landscape, supporting both quality of life and economic development as the town continues to grow.