Muncie boulevard, mansions on national register

MUNCIE, Ind. (AP) - Muncie officials who are thrilled that an eight-year effort won national recognition for a historic boulevard and its mansions could soon seek another national designation for the famed thoroughfare.

Minnetrista Boulevard and its string of former Ball family mansions have won a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Now Minnetrista officials are considering seeking status as a National Historic Landmark.

Director of collections Karen Vincent tells The Star Press that such designations are important for the community and its sense of place. They also help recognize the influence of the Ball family and its jar company.

Work to win the historic places designation included research on the houses, their architectural styles, the families who lived in them and the history of Ball Corp.