Who was George Pogue and what happened to him? Where did the Pogue’s Run waterway go? Let’s explore!

In conjunction with Spark Monument Circle, the White River Festival, and Reconnecting to Our Waterways, Big Car Collaborative invites you to stoke your imagination and trek with us through the heart of downtown Indianapolis circa 1915. Together, we will hunt for the historical path Pogue’s Run once carved, meandering to the White River.

All adventurers will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to the Spark Welcome Trailer on the east side of Monument Circle for an brief, fun and informative historical overview of George Pogue (c.1763–1821), Indy’s humble beginnings, and the story of Pogue’s Run.

A 90-minute walk will lead explorers along the historical banks of Pogue’s Run as previously charted by Pittsburgh based artist Sean Derry. Explorers will navigate old-timey maps along our modern city thoroughfares while pondering what life was like for residents along the White River tributary in centuries past. Explore the mysterious disappearance of George Pogue, and the similar disappearance of the waterway bearing his name. Take an opportunity to purchase provisions during our journey.

You will ultimately walk away with:

• A broader understanding of the network of waterways Indy was built upon.
• A connected experience to Indy’s historical origins.
• Consideration for what must go into the responsible creation of a sustainable urban environment.

Participants are encouraged to dress in c. 1915 period appropriate clothing, so don your parasols, feathered hats, suspenders, bowler hats, and canes. All ages are welcome! Strollers are welcome! This event is free and open to the public.

*Join us the night prior for The Long Blue Line: Discussion with Artist Sean Derry at Flat 12 Bierworks. Artist Sean Derry will explain his experience painting the blue line across Indianapolis, marking the historic path of Pogue’s Run.

Rethink Reconnect Reclaim – Creative Placemaking Series (Fall, 2015)

This event takes place as part of Rethink Reconnect Reclaim – Creative Placemaking Series (Fall, 2015)
Let’s identify what it looks like to take control of our environments and spur forward-thinking artistic exploration for the greater good of our communities and our waterways. Big Car Collaborative, Reconnecting to Our Waterways, are collaborating to bring together some of the brightest minds in the fields of Environmental Art, Creative Placemaking, and Tactical Urbanism. In pursuit of a better city, let’s reimagine our public spaces and bringing new energy to Indy’s waterways.