The early west-central Indiana town of Crawfordsville saw the passage of several Native American tribes, as well as French traders and missionaries, traveling along Sugar Creek. Flourishing as the county seat, the city was buoyed by the railroad, horses, and higher education, and is most well known for Wabash College, outstanding American authors such as Lew Wallace (Ben Hur), and the Federal Land Office. Overcoming hardships along the way, the residents' fortitude and commitment to the city's growth enabled them to persevere and establish this lucrative and charming community.

Crawfordsville, founded in the early 1820s, has a diverse history for a small town located in rural, west-central Indiana. The town was the site of an important land office, which attracted many settlers, as well as speculators, to the area. Crawfordsville became known for its intellectual and progressive atmosphere and earned the nickname of the "Athens of Indiana," especially for the numerous residents with literary accomplishments. Wabash College was established in Crawfordsville in 1832, and the institution's teachers and students have contributed greatly to the development of the town's culture and prestige. In addition to its authors and poets, Crawfordsville has had its share of musicians, artists, soldiers, and statesmen who have played a role far beyond the borders of Montgomery County, of which Crawfordsville is the seat. Images of America: Crawfordsville is a photographic tour of the people and places that have marked this town from its early days. Some 200 historical images capture the town's development, along with its interesting, and often unique, accomplishments.

Crawfordsville, Indiana, has a rich history of spiritualism and paranormal lore. In the late 1800s and early 1900s mediums were trained in the city, and spiritualism was preached from the street corners. Spirit photography was all the rage, and many flocked to town to have their photos taken with ghosts. The Crawfordsville Monster caused a nationwide stir after terrorizing the town for several days and being spotted by more than 100 people. Urban legends also abound in this small city, including legends like the cursed chair of Oak Hill cemetery, Spooky Hollow and the Old Hospital. Authors Christopher and Christina Hunt share these tales and others devoted to the mysterious past and darkly thrilling secret life of the heart of Montgomery County.