Markle is located on what was previously the Richardville and Wildcat reserves, named after an Indian whose name was interpreted as “Wildcat”. President Tyler and Pish-e-Wah (Wildcat) signed the land agreement for the reserves on Nov. 6, 1838.
Later settlers inhabited the area and named it Tracy after their own surname. When the railroad was completed around 1878, new merchants moved to Markle and it experienced a boom. It was around this time that the town was renamed to Markle. The history of the railroad continues to impact Markle, as it is still considered by many to be one of the best shipping points on the Erie Railway between Huntington and Geneva.
Today, Markle is located jointly in Wells and Huntington counties, and its position along Interstate 69, U.S. Route 224, 116, and Indiana State Road 3 makes it an ideal location for industrial, retail, and commercial development. To add to the appeal, Markle is located within a 24-hour drive of 80 of the top 100 United States markets and, more specifically, near the center of the automotive manufacturing industry.
Therefore, it is no surprise that this community is built upon the manufacturing industry. Prominent businesses within Markle, include Wayne Metals, LLC, and Salamonie Mills, Inc. Markle also has strong roots in the healthcare industry, though, with major facilities such as the Markle Medical Center and Markle Health and Rehabilitation. These facilities pride themselves on meeting the community’s needs, and they are an extension of the community culture which permeates Markle.
This culture is also emphasized in the large community park located within Markle along Indiana State Road 3. The park was provided by the Markle Fish and Game Club, and it features: playground equipment, two ball diamonds, a swimming pool, and picnic facilities.
The park has been bringing Markle community members together since its installment. In fact, the playground was erected through a community effort and the Markle Business and Community Association continues to host activities at the park for the local community. One event that is particularly well-known is the annual Wildcat Festival (named after the town’s history).
The Markle Business Association and the Markle Economic Development Organization recently merged to become the Markle Area Chamber of Commerce. This newly founded organization will continue the tradition of developing the Markle Community for the benefit of local businesses and community members.
The town operates its own water and sewage utilities and is led by the three members of the Markle Town Council and the town Clerk-Treasurer.
About Markle
Markle Wildcat Festival
Markle Chamber of Commerce
Markle Ballpark
Markle Medical Center
Markle Health & Rehabilitation
Salamonie Mills
Wayne Metals, Inc.