Griffith

Beneath the vast Indiana sky, lies the town of Griffith. Griffith is a town brimming with history, nestled within the bustling Chicago metropolitan area. This town earned a curious nickname, “The Town That Came to the Tracks.” Griffith’s story is interwoven with the railways that shaped its destiny. Founded in 1854, Griffith officially became a town in 1904, named after Benjamin Griffith. The town’s growth has been a fascinating rollercoaster. The population surged dramatically throughout the early to mid-20th century. Now Griffith stands as the 11th largest town in Indiana by population. In the heart of Griffith, three landmarks whisper tales of the past. The Griffith State Bank, the E.J. and E. Griffith Interlocking Tower, and the Griffith Grand Trunk Depot. These historical gems are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, standing as proud reminders of Griffith’s heritage. Griffith’s geographical location also adds a unique dimension to its story. It sits 630 feet above sea level, its boundaries embracing remnants of the ancient Calumet shorelines of Lake Michigan. Griffith also experienced a unique shift in its township. In 2018, residents voted overwhelmingly to leave Calumet Township and join North Township, seeking relief from high property taxes. This move altered the town’s administrative landscape. Beyond its rich history, Griffith boasts a diverse educational system. Griffith Public Schools serves most of the town. The district includes Griffith Senior High School, Griffith Middle School, Beiriger Elementary School, and Wadsworth Elementary School. In addition, St. Mary Catholic Elementary & Junior High School offers another educational option. Interestingly, residents in the southeastern section fall under the jurisdiction of the Lake Central School Corporation, highlighting the town’s unique blend of administrative districts.