Tippecanoe County

Tippecanoe County is an administrative county in west-central Indiana covering about 500 square miles, with Lafayette and West Lafayette located along the Wabash River. The territory includes urban and rural areas, with Purdue University as its largest institution.

The county was established in 1826 and named after a Miami-Illinois word meaning buffalo fish. The region gained historical importance from the 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe, a key event in early American history.

Purdue University shapes how the region functions, drawing students and researchers from around the world. The university influences everyday life through its events, presence in the community, and role as a major employer.

Interstate 65 passes through and connects the county to Indianapolis and Chicago, making it easy to travel in both directions. Amtrak offers passenger rail service at Lafayette Station as an alternative to driving.

The Tippecanoe County Courthouse, built in 1881, displays Renaissance Revival architecture and stands on the National Register of Historic Places. The building features ornate details and decorative elements typical of that era.

Location: Indiana

Inception: January 20, 1826

Capital city: Lafayette

Shares border with: White County, Carroll County, Clinton County, Montgomery County, Fountain County, Warren County, Benton County

Website: http://county.tippecanoe.in.us

GPS coordinates: 40.39000,-86.89000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 22:00