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Coordinates: 40°44′N 85°13′W / 40.73°N 85.22°W / 40.73; -85.22
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{{short description|County in Indiana, United States}}
{{short description|County in Indiana, United States}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2021}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2024}}
{{Infobox U.S. county
{{Infobox U.S. county
| county = Wells County
| county = Wells County
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| census yr = 2020
| census yr = 2020
| pop = 28180
| pop = 28180
| pop_est_as_of = 2023
| population_est = 28555 {{increase}}
| density_sq_mi = auto
| density_sq_mi = auto
| time zone = Eastern
| time zone = Eastern
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| district = 3rd
| district = 3rd
| ex image = Wells County Courthouse P4020318.jpg
| ex image = Wells County Courthouse P4020318.jpg
| ex image cap = Wells County Courthouse in Bluffton
| ex image cap = [[Wells County Courthouse (Indiana)|Wells County Courthouse]] in Bluffton }}
}}

⚫
'''Wells County''' is a [[County (United States)|county]] in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Indiana]]. As of the [[2020 United States Census]], the population was 28,180.<ref name=new-census/> The [[county seat]] (and only incorporated city) is [[Bluffton, Indiana|Bluffton]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=7 June 2011|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref>


⚫
'''Wells County''' is a [[County (United States)|county]] in the [[U.S. state]] of [[Indiana]]. As of the [[2020 United States Census]], the population was 28,180.<ref name=new-census/> Its [[county seat|seat of government]] is [[Bluffton, Indiana|Bluffton]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.naco.org/Counties/Pages/FindACounty.aspx|access-date=June 7, 2011|title=Find a County|publisher=National Association of Counties}}</ref> Wells County is included in the [[Fort Wayne Metropolitan Statistical Area]] and the [[Fort Wayne metropolitan area, Indiana|
Wells County is included in the [[Fort Wayne Metropolitan Statistical Area]] and the [[Fort Wayne, Indiana|Fort Wayne]]–[[Huntington, Indiana|Huntington]]–[[Auburn, Indiana|Auburn]] [[Combined Statistical Area]].
Fort Wayne—Huntington—Auburn Combined Statistical Area]].


==History==
==History==
The [[Indiana Territory|Territory of Indiana]] was established in 1800 and legitimized by the [[Northwest Ordinance]] of 1787. The governing structure established through this act began to create counties in the territory as it became increasingly settled. In December 1816, the [[Indiana|State of Indiana]] was admitted to the Union. Wells was named after famous frontiersmen [[William Wells (soldier)|William A. Wells]] who played a central role in the [[Northwest Indian War|Northwest Indian Wars]] and the activity surrounding [[Fort Miami (Indiana)|Fort Miami]] and [[Kekionga]].<ref>Captain William A. Wells was captured by [[Native Americans in the United States|Native Americans]] as a young boy and adopted by the [[Miami tribe|Miami]] chief [[Michikinikwa|Little Turtle]]. He eventually became a scout for Gen. [[Anthony Wayne|"Mad Anthony" Wayne]]. Capt. Wells was killed by [[Potawatomi]] allied with the British at the [[Battle of Fort Dearborn]] at the outbreak of the [[War of 1812]].</ref> It was initially assigned to [[Allen County, Indiana|Allen County]] for legislative and administrative affairs.{{Citation needed|date=April 2023}}
The [[Indiana Territory|Territory of Indiana]] was established in 1800 as legitimized by the [[Northwest Ordinance]] of 1787. The governing structure established through this act began creating counties in the territory as it became increasingly populated. In December 1816, the [[Indiana|State of Indiana]] was admitted to the Union. Wells was named after famous frontiersmen [[William Wells (soldier)|William A. Wells]] who played a central role in the [[Northwest Indian War|Northwest Indian Wars]] and the activity surrounding [[Fort Miami (Indiana)|Fort Miami]] and [[Kekionga]].<ref>Captain William A. Wells was captured by [[Native Americans in the United States|Native Americans]] as a young boy and adopted by the [[Miami tribe|Miami]] chief [[Michikinikwa|Little Turtle]]. He eventually became a scout for Gen. [[Anthony Wayne|"Mad Anthony" Wayne]]. Capt. Wells was killed by [[Potawatomi]] allied with the British at the [[Battle of Fort Dearborn]] at the outbreak of the [[War of 1812]].</ref> It was initially assigned to [[Allen County, Indiana|Allen County]] for legislative and administrative affairs.{{Citation needed|date=April 2023}}


In the winter of 1835, Col. John Vowter of [[Jennings County, Indiana|Jennings County]], Chairman of the Committee on New Counties, introduced a bill proposing that the assembly "lay out all the unorganized territory to which the Indian title had been extinguished in the state into a suitable number of counties". This bill would be approved later that year on February 7, effectively creating thirteen [[Northern Indiana]] counties, one of which was Wells.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Tyndall |first=John W. (John Wilson) |url=http://archive.org/details/standardhistoryo01tynd |title=Standard history of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana : An authentic narrative of the past, with an extended survey of modern developments in the progress of town and country |last2=Lesh |first2=O. E. (Orlo Ervin) |date=1918 |publisher=Chicago : Lewis Publishing Co. |others=Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center}}</ref>
In the winter of 1835, Col. John Vowter of [[Jennings County, Indiana|Jennings County]], Chairman of the Committee on New Counties, introduced a bill proposing that the assembly "lay out all the unorganized territory to which the Indian title had been extinguished in the state into a suitable number of counties". This bill would be approved later that year on February 7, effectively creating thirteen [[Northern Indiana]] counties, one of which was Wells.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Tyndall |first=John W. (John Wilson) |url=http://archive.org/details/standardhistoryo01tynd |title=Standard history of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana : An authentic narrative of the past, with an extended survey of modern developments in the progress of town and country |last2=Lesh |first2=O. E. (Orlo Ervin) |date=1918 |publisher=Chicago : Lewis Publishing Co. |others=Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center}}</ref>


On 2 February 1837, an act was passed by the state, authorizing Wells County to be organized independent of Allen County, and specifying 1 May for the date of the first meeting. However, that meeting did not take place, and so an act dated 20 January 1838 authorized the meeting of appointed commissioners to decide on a county seat. That vote was completed on 5 March 1838, selecting [[Bluffton, Indiana|Bluffton]].<ref>{{cite book|author1=Tyndall, John W|author2=Lesh, O E|publisher=Lewis Publishing Co.|year=1918|location=Chicago|title=Standard History of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana|url=https://archive.org/details/standardhistoryo01tynd/page/n5/mode/2up|pages=304–6}}</ref>
On February 2, 1837, an act was passed by the state, authorizing Wells County to be organized independent of Allen County, and specifying May 1 for the date of the first meeting. However, that meeting did not take place, and so an act dated January 20, 1838, authorized the meeting of appointed commissioners to decide on a county seat. That vote was completed on March 5, 1838, selecting [[Bluffton, Indiana|Bluffton]].<ref>{{cite book|author1=Tyndall, John W|author2=Lesh, O E|publisher=Lewis Publishing Co.|year=1918|location=Chicago|title=Standard History of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana|url=https://archive.org/details/standardhistoryo01tynd/page/n5/mode/2up|pages=304–6}}</ref>


==Geography==
==Geography==
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|units=imperial
|units=imperial
|clear=both
|clear=both
|source=The Weather Channel<ref name=WX>{{cite web|url=http://www.weather.com/weather/wxclimatology/monthly/graph/USIN0047|title=Monthly Averages for Bluffton IN|access-date=27 January 2011|publisher=The Weather Channel}}</ref>}}
|source=The Weather Channel<ref name=WX>{{cite web|url=http://www.weather.com/weather/wxclimatology/monthly/graph/USIN0047|title=Monthly Averages for Bluffton IN|access-date=January 27, 2011|publisher=The Weather Channel}}</ref>}}
In recent years, average temperatures in Bluffton have ranged from a low of {{convert|16|°F}} in January to a high of {{convert|84|°F}} in July, although a record low of {{convert|-24|°F}} was recorded in January 1985 and a record high of {{convert|104|°F}} was recorded in July 1980. Average monthly precipitation ranged from {{convert|1.83|in}} in February to {{convert|4.11|in}} in May.<ref name=WX/>
In recent years, average temperatures in Bluffton have ranged from a low of {{convert|16|°F}} in January to a high of {{convert|84|°F}} in July, although a record low of {{convert|-24|°F}} was recorded in January 1985 and a record high of {{convert|104|°F}} was recorded in July 1980. Average monthly precipitation ranged from {{convert|1.83|in}} in February to {{convert|4.11|in}} in May.<ref name=WX/>


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The county government is a constitutional body, and is granted specific powers by the [[Constitution of Indiana]], and by the [[Indiana Code]].
The county government is a constitutional body, and is granted specific powers by the [[Constitution of Indiana]], and by the [[Indiana Code]].


'''County Council:''' The legislative branch of the county government; controls spending and revenue collection in the county. Representatives are elected to four-year terms from county districts. They set salaries, the annual budget, and special spending. The council has limited authority to impose local taxes, in the form of an income and property tax that is subject to state level approval, excise taxes, and service taxes.<ref name=inc3623>{{cite web|author=Indiana Code|author-link=Indiana Code|url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title36/ar2/ch3.html|title=Title 36, Article 2, Section 3|access-date=16 September 2008|publisher=IN.gov}}</ref><ref name=inc2102>{{cite web|author=Indiana Code|url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title3/ar10/ch2.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041227171739/http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title3/ar10/ch2.pdf |archive-date=2004-12-27 |url-status=live|title=Title 2, Article 10, Section 2|access-date=16 September 2008|publisher=IN.gov}}</ref>
'''County Council:''' The legislative branch of the county government; controls spending and revenue collection in the county. Representatives are elected to four-year terms from county districts. They set salaries, the annual budget, and special spending. The council has limited authority to impose local taxes, in the form of an income and property tax that is subject to state level approval, excise taxes, and service taxes.<ref name=inc3623>{{cite web|author=Indiana Code|author-link=Indiana Code|url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title36/ar2/ch3.html|title=Title 36, Article 2, Section 3|access-date=September 16, 2008|publisher=IN.gov}}</ref><ref name=inc2102>{{cite web|author=Indiana Code|url=http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title3/ar10/ch2.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041227171739/http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title3/ar10/ch2.pdf |archive-date=December 27, 2004 |url-status=live|title=Title 2, Article 10, Section 2|access-date=September 16, 2008|publisher=IN.gov}}</ref>


'''Board of Commissioners:''' The executive body of the county; commissioners are elected county-wide to staggered four-year terms. One commissioner serves as president. The commissioners execute acts legislated by the council, collect revenue, and manage the county government.<ref name=inc3623/><ref name=inc2102/>
'''Board of Commissioners:''' The executive body of the county; commissioners are elected county-wide to staggered four-year terms. One commissioner serves as president. The commissioners execute acts legislated by the council, collect revenue, and manage the county government.<ref name=inc3623/><ref name=inc2102/>
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'''County Officials:''' The county has other elected offices, including [[sheriff]], [[coroner]], [[auditor]], [[treasurer]], [[recorder of deeds|recorder]], [[Surveying|surveyor]], and circuit [[court clerk]]. The officers are elected to four-year terms. Members elected to county government positions are required to declare [[political party|party]] affiliations and to be residents of the county.<ref name=inc2102/>
'''County Officials:''' The county has other elected offices, including [[sheriff]], [[coroner]], [[auditor]], [[treasurer]], [[recorder of deeds|recorder]], [[Surveying|surveyor]], and circuit [[court clerk]]. The officers are elected to four-year terms. Members elected to county government positions are required to declare [[political party|party]] affiliations and to be residents of the county.<ref name=inc2102/>


{{PresHead|place=Wells County, Indiana|whig=no|source1=<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS|title=Atlas of US Presidential Elections|last=Leip|first=David|website=uselectionatlas.org|access-date=21 May 2018}}</ref>}}
{{PresHead|place=Wells County, Indiana|source=<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://uselectionatlas.org/RESULTS|title=Atlas of US Presidential Elections|last=Leip|first=David|website=uselectionatlas.org|access-date=May 21, 2018}}</ref>}}
<!-- PresRow should be {{PresRow|Year|Winning party|GOP/Whig vote #|Dem vote #|3rd party vote #|State}} -->
<!-- PresRow should be {{PresRow|Year|Winning party|GOP vote #|Dem vote #|3rd party vote #|State}} -->
{{PresRow|2024|Republican|11,006|2,850|280|Indiana}}
{{PresRow|2020|Republican|10,855|2,928|297|Indiana}}
{{PresRow|2020|Republican|10,855|2,928|297|Indiana}}
{{PresRow|2016|Republican|10,005|2,586|695|Indiana}}
{{PresRow|2016|Republican|10,005|2,586|695|Indiana}}
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|2010= 27636
|2010= 27636
|2020= 28180
|2020= 28180
|estyear=2023
|estref=
|estimate=28555
|estref=<ref name="USCensusEst2023">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/popest/data/tables.html|title=Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=April 2, 2024}}</ref>
|align-fn=center
|align-fn=center
|footnote=US Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=U.S. Decennial Census|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref><br />1790-1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref> 1900-1990<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/in190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref><br />1990-2000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327165705/http://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-date=2010-03-27 |url-status=live|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref> 2010-2013<ref name=QF/> 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/wellscountyindiana/PST045218|title=QuickFacts. Wells County IN|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=July 26, 2019}}</ref><ref name=QF>{{cite web|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/18/18179.html|title=Wells County QuickFacts|access-date=25 September 2011|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-date=7 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607092214/http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/18/18179.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> 2020<ref name=new-census>[https://www.census.gov/library/visualizations/interactive/2020-population-and-housing-state-data.html 2020 Population and Housing State Data | Indiana]</ref>
|footnote=US Decennial Census<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=U.S. Decennial Census|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref><br />1790-1960<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mapserver.lib.virginia.edu|title=Historical Census Browser|publisher=University of Virginia Library|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref> 1900-1990<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/cencounts/in190090.txt|title=Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref><br />1990-2000<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100327165705/http://www.census.gov/population/www/cen2000/briefs/phc-t4/tables/tab02.pdf |archive-date=March 27, 2010 |url-status=live|title=Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=July 10, 2014}}</ref> 2010-2013<ref name=QF/> 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/wellscountyindiana/PST045218|title=QuickFacts. Wells County IN|publisher=US Census Bureau|access-date=July 26, 2019}}</ref><ref name=QF>{{cite web|url=http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/18/18179.html|title=Wells County QuickFacts|access-date=September 25, 2011|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-date=June 7, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607092214/http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/18/18179.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> 2020<ref name=new-census>[https://www.census.gov/library/visualizations/interactive/2020-population-and-housing-state-data.html 2020 Population and Housing State Data | Indiana]</ref>
}}
}}


==2010 Census==
==2010 Census==
As of the [[2010 United States Census]], there were 27,636 people, 10,780 households, and 7,684 families in the county.<ref name=DP>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US18179|title=Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data|access-date=10 July 2015|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213020926/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US18179|archive-date=13 February 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The population density was {{convert|75.1|PD/sqmi}}. There were 11,659 housing units at an average density of {{convert|31.7|/sqmi}}.<ref name=DC>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY10/0500000US18179|access-date=10 July 2015|title=Population, Housing Units, Area, and Density: 2010 - County|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200212204438/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY10/0500000US18179|archive-date=12 February 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The racial makeup of the county was 97.3% white, 0.4% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, 0.3% black or African American, 0.8% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.0% of the population.<ref name=DP/> In terms of ancestry, 38.4% were [[Germans|German]], 12.3% were [[English people|English]], 10.8% were [[Irish people|Irish]], and 10.3% were [[Americans|American]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0400000US18%7c0500000US18179|title=Selected Social Characteristics in the US – 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates|access-date=10 July 2015|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200214002503/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179|archive-date=14 February 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>
As of the [[2010 United States Census]], there were 27,636 people, 10,780 households, and 7,684 families in the county.<ref name=DP>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US18179|title=Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data|access-date=July 10, 2015|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200213020926/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_DP/DPDP1/0500000US18179|archive-date=February 13, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The population density was {{convert|75.1|PD/sqmi}}. There were 11,659 housing units at an average density of {{convert|31.7|/sqmi}}.<ref name=DC>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY10/0500000US18179|access-date=July 10, 2015|title=Population, Housing Units, Area, and Density: 2010 - County|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200212204438/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/DEC/10_SF1/GCTPH1.CY10/0500000US18179|archive-date=February 12, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> The racial makeup of the county was 97.3% white, 0.4% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, 0.3% black or African American, 0.8% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.0% of the population.<ref name=DP/> In terms of ancestry, 38.4% were [[Germans|German]], 12.3% were [[English people|English]], 10.8% were [[Irish people|Irish]], and 10.3% were [[Americans|American]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0400000US18%7c0500000US18179|title=Selected Social Characteristics in the US – 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates|access-date=July 10, 2015|publisher=US Census Bureau|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200214002503/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP02/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179|archive-date=February 14, 2020|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Of the 10,780 households, 33.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.1% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 28.7% were non-families, and 24.8% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 3.00. The median age was 40.2 years.<ref name=DP/>
Of the 10,780 households, 33.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.1% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 28.7% were non-families, and 24.8% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 3.00. The median age was 40.2 years.<ref name=DP/>


The median income for a household in the county was $47,697 and the median income for a family was $56,885. Males had a median income of $41,871 versus $30,031 for females. The per capita income for the county was $23,169. About 6.2% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 10.8% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179 |title=American FactFinder - Results |website=factfinder.census.gov |access-date=3 February 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200214002931/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179 |archive-date=14 February 2020 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
The median income for a household in the county was $47,697 and the median income for a family was $56,885. Males had a median income of $41,871 versus $30,031 for females. The per capita income for the county was $23,169. About 6.2% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the [[poverty line]], including 10.8% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179 |title=American FactFinder - Results |website=factfinder.census.gov |access-date=February 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200214002931/http://factfinder.census.gov/bkmk/table/1.0/en/ACS/10_5YR/DP03/0400000US18%7C0500000US18179 |archive-date=February 14, 2020 |url-status=dead}}</ref>


==Education==
==Education==
School districts include: [[Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District]], [[Northern Wells Community Schools]], and [[Southern Wells Community Schools]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220723231017/https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179.pdf |archive-date=2022-07-23 |url-status=live|title=2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Wells County, IN|publisher=[[U.S. Census Bureau]]|accessdate=2022-07-23}} - [https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179_SD2MS.txt Text list]</ref>
School districts include: [[Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District]], [[Northern Wells Community Schools]], and [[Southern Wells Community Schools]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220723231017/https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179.pdf |archive-date=July 23, 2022 |url-status=live|title=2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Wells County, IN|publisher=[[U.S. Census Bureau]]|accessdate=July 23, 2022}} - [https://www2.census.gov/geo/maps/DC2020/PL20/st18_in/schooldistrict_maps/c18179_wells/DC20SD_C18179_SD2MS.txt Text list]</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
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[[Category:Populated places established in 1837]]
[[Category:Populated places established in 1837]]
[[Category:Fort Wayne, IN Metropolitan Statistical Area]]
[[Category:Fort Wayne, IN Metropolitan Statistical Area]]
[[Category:Sundown towns in Indiana]]

Latest revision as of 21:06, 18 December 2024

Wells County
County
Wells County Courthouse in Bluffton
Wells County Courthouse in Bluffton
Map of Indiana highlighting Wells County
Location within the U.S. state of Indiana
Map of the United States highlighting Indiana
Indiana's location within the U.S.
Coordinates: 40°44′N 85°13′W / 40.73°N 85.22°W / 40.73; -85.22
Country United States
State Indiana
Founded1837
Named forWilliam A. Wells
SeatBluffton
Largest cityBluffton
Area
 • Total
370.25 sq mi (958.9 km2)
 • Land368.09 sq mi (953.3 km2)
 • Water2.16 sq mi (5.6 km2)  0.58%
Population
 (2020)
 • Total
28,180
 • Estimate 
(2023)
28,555 Increase
 • Density76/sq mi (29/km2)
Time zoneUTC−5 (Eastern)
 • Summer (DST)UTC−4 (EDT)
Congressional district3rd
Websitewww.wellscounty.org
Indiana county number 90

Wells County is a county in the U.S. state of Indiana. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 28,180.[1] Its seat of government is Bluffton.[2] Wells County is included in the Fort Wayne Metropolitan Statistical Area and the Fort Wayne—Huntington—Auburn Combined Statistical Area.

History

[edit]

The Territory of Indiana was established in 1800 as legitimized by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787. The governing structure established through this act began creating counties in the territory as it became increasingly populated. In December 1816, the State of Indiana was admitted to the Union. Wells was named after famous frontiersmen William A. Wells who played a central role in the Northwest Indian Wars and the activity surrounding Fort Miami and Kekionga.[3] It was initially assigned to Allen County for legislative and administrative affairs.[citation needed]

In the winter of 1835, Col. John Vowter of Jennings County, Chairman of the Committee on New Counties, introduced a bill proposing that the assembly "lay out all the unorganized territory to which the Indian title had been extinguished in the state into a suitable number of counties". This bill would be approved later that year on February 7, effectively creating thirteen Northern Indiana counties, one of which was Wells.[4]

On February 2, 1837, an act was passed by the state, authorizing Wells County to be organized independent of Allen County, and specifying May 1 for the date of the first meeting. However, that meeting did not take place, and so an act dated January 20, 1838, authorized the meeting of appointed commissioners to decide on a county seat. That vote was completed on March 5, 1838, selecting Bluffton.[5]

Geography

[edit]

The low rolling hills of Wells County have been deforested and are now completely devoted to agriculture and urban development. The Wabash River flows to the northwest, draining the central and upper part of the county, while the lower part is drained by the Salamonie River, also flowing to the northwest.[6] The highest point on the terrain (935 feet/285 meters ASL) is an isolated rise on the county's south borderline with Jay County, one-half mile (0.8 km) east of the NE corner of Blackford County.[7]

According to the 2010 census, the county has a total area of 370.25 square miles (958.9 km2), of which 368.09 square miles (953.3 km2) (or 99.42%) is land and 2.16 square miles (5.6 km2) (or 0.58%) is water.[8]

Adjacent counties

[edit]

City and towns

[edit]

Unincorporated communities

[edit]

Townships

[edit]

Major highways

[edit]

Climate and weather

[edit]
Bluffton, Indiana
Climate chart (explanation)
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█ Average max. and min. temperatures in °F
█ Precipitation totals in inches
Source: The Weather Channel[9]
Metric conversion
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█ Average max. and min. temperatures in °C
█ Precipitation totals in mm

In recent years, average temperatures in Bluffton have ranged from a low of 16 °F (−9 °C) in January to a high of 84 °F (29 °C) in July, although a record low of −24 °F (−31 °C) was recorded in January 1985 and a record high of 104 °F (40 °C) was recorded in July 1980. Average monthly precipitation ranged from 1.83 inches (46 mm) in February to 4.11 inches (104 mm) in May.[9]

Government

[edit]
See also: Government of Indiana

The county government is a constitutional body, and is granted specific powers by the Constitution of Indiana, and by the Indiana Code.

County Council: The legislative branch of the county government; controls spending and revenue collection in the county. Representatives are elected to four-year terms from county districts. They set salaries, the annual budget, and special spending. The council has limited authority to impose local taxes, in the form of an income and property tax that is subject to state level approval, excise taxes, and service taxes.[10][11]

Board of Commissioners: The executive body of the county; commissioners are elected county-wide to staggered four-year terms. One commissioner serves as president. The commissioners execute acts legislated by the council, collect revenue, and manage the county government.[10][11]

Court: The county maintains a small claims court that handles civil cases. The judge on the court is elected to a term of four years. The judge is assisted by a constable who is also elected to a four-year term. In some cases, court decisions can be appealed to the state level circuit court.[11]

County Officials: The county has other elected offices, including sheriff, coroner, auditor, treasurer, recorder, surveyor, and circuit court clerk. The officers are elected to four-year terms. Members elected to county government positions are required to declare party affiliations and to be residents of the county.[11]

United States presidential election results for Wells County, Indiana[12]
Year Republican Democratic Third party(ies)
No.  % No.  % No.  %
2024 11,006 77.86% 2,850 20.16% 280 1.98%
2020 10,855 77.10% 2,928 20.80% 297 2.11%
2016 10,005 75.30% 2,586 19.46% 695 5.23%
2012 9,256 71.46% 3,436 26.53% 260 2.01%
2008 8,504 64.98% 4,403 33.64% 181 1.38%
2004 9,168 74.21% 3,112 25.19% 74 0.60%
2000 7,755 68.74% 3,319 29.42% 207 1.83%
1996 6,322 55.98% 3,752 33.22% 1,220 10.80%
1992 5,799 48.17% 3,282 27.26% 2,958 24.57%
1988 7,712 68.93% 3,437 30.72% 39 0.35%
1984 7,579 69.40% 3,274 29.98% 67 0.61%
1980 5,864 56.14% 3,760 36.00% 821 7.86%
1976 5,596 56.33% 4,250 42.78% 88 0.89%
1972 6,425 65.77% 3,244 33.21% 100 1.02%
1968 5,361 53.07% 3,827 37.89% 913 9.04%
1964 4,018 39.96% 5,945 59.12% 92 0.91%
1960 6,034 58.91% 4,128 40.30% 80 0.78%
1956 5,703 58.32% 3,984 40.74% 91 0.93%
1952 5,380 55.85% 3,963 41.14% 290 3.01%
1948 4,288 47.15% 4,726 51.97% 80 0.88%
1944 4,708 50.03% 4,475 47.56% 227 2.41%
1940 4,898 47.75% 5,236 51.05% 123 1.20%
1936 3,606 36.59% 6,189 62.81% 59 0.60%
1932 3,073 32.25% 6,236 65.45% 219 2.30%
1928 4,142 48.93% 4,246 50.16% 77 0.91%
1924 3,932 44.92% 4,537 51.83% 285 3.26%
1920 4,430 47.61% 4,653 50.01% 222 2.39%
1916 1,947 37.26% 2,928 56.03% 351 6.72%
1912 812 15.95% 2,760 54.20% 1,520 29.85%
1908 2,185 35.92% 3,345 54.99% 553 9.09%
1904 2,565 40.74% 3,127 49.67% 604 9.59%
1900 2,290 37.50% 3,599 58.94% 217 3.55%
1896 2,212 36.63% 3,728 61.74% 98 1.62%
1892 1,668 33.90% 2,725 55.37% 528 10.73%
1888 1,926 37.17% 2,942 56.77% 314 6.06%

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
18401,822—
18506,152237.7%
186010,84476.3%
187013,58525.3%
188018,44235.8%
189021,51416.7%
190023,4499.0%
191022,418−4.4%
192020,509−8.5%
193018,411−10.2%
194019,0993.7%
195019,5642.4%
196021,2208.5%
197023,82112.3%
198025,4016.6%
199025,9482.2%
200027,6006.4%
201027,6360.1%
202028,1802.0%
2023 (est.)28,555[13]1.3%
US Decennial Census[14]
1790-1960[15] 1900-1990[16]
1990-2000[17] 2010-2013[18] 2018[19][18] 2020[1]

2010 Census

[edit]

As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 27,636 people, 10,780 households, and 7,684 families in the county.[20] The population density was 75.1 inhabitants per square mile (29.0/km2). There were 11,659 housing units at an average density of 31.7 per square mile (12.2/km2).[8] The racial makeup of the county was 97.3% white, 0.4% Asian, 0.3% American Indian, 0.3% black or African American, 0.8% from other races, and 0.9% from two or more races. Those of Hispanic or Latino origin made up 2.0% of the population.[20] In terms of ancestry, 38.4% were German, 12.3% were English, 10.8% were Irish, and 10.3% were American.[21] Of the 10,780 households, 33.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.1% were married couples living together, 8.6% had a female householder with no husband present, 28.7% were non-families, and 24.8% of all households were made up of individuals. The average household size was 2.52 and the average family size was 3.00. The median age was 40.2 years.[20]

The median income for a household in the county was $47,697 and the median income for a family was $56,885. Males had a median income of $41,871 versus $30,031 for females. The per capita income for the county was $23,169. About 6.2% of families and 8.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.8% of those under age 18 and 3.6% of those age 65 or over.[22]

Education

[edit]

School districts include: Bluffton-Harrison Metropolitan School District, Northern Wells Community Schools, and Southern Wells Community Schools.[23]

See also

[edit]
[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b 2020 Population and Housing State Data | Indiana
  2. ^ "Find a County". National Association of Counties. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  3. ^ Captain William A. Wells was captured by Native Americans as a young boy and adopted by the Miami chief Little Turtle. He eventually became a scout for Gen. "Mad Anthony" Wayne. Capt. Wells was killed by Potawatomi allied with the British at the Battle of Fort Dearborn at the outbreak of the War of 1812.
  4. ^ Tyndall, John W. (John Wilson); Lesh, O. E. (Orlo Ervin) (1918). Standard history of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana : An authentic narrative of the past, with an extended survey of modern developments in the progress of town and country. Allen County Public Library Genealogy Center. Chicago : Lewis Publishing Co.
  5. ^ Tyndall, John W; Lesh, O E (1918). Standard History of Adams and Wells counties, Indiana. Chicago: Lewis Publishing Co. pp. 304–6.
  6. ^ Wells County IN (Google Maps, accessed 6 August 2020)
  7. ^ Wells County High Point, Indiana (PeakBagger.com, accessed 6 August 2020)
  8. ^ a b "Population, Housing Units, Area, and Density: 2010 - County". US Census Bureau. Archived from the original on February 12, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2015.
  9. ^ a b "Monthly Averages for Bluffton IN". The Weather Channel. Retrieved January 27, 2011.
  10. ^ a b Indiana Code. "Title 36, Article 2, Section 3". IN.gov. Retrieved September 16, 2008.
  11. ^ a b c d Indiana Code. "Title 2, Article 10, Section 2" (PDF). IN.gov. Archived (PDF) from the original on December 27, 2004. Retrieved September 16, 2008.
  12. ^ Leip, David. "Atlas of US Presidential Elections". uselectionatlas.org. Retrieved May 21, 2018.
  13. ^ "Annual Estimates of the Resident Population for Counties: April 1, 2020 to July 1, 2023". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 2, 2024.
  14. ^ "U.S. Decennial Census". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved July 10, 2014.
  15. ^ "Historical Census Browser". University of Virginia Library. Retrieved July 10, 2014.
  16. ^ "Population of Counties by Decennial Census: 1900 to 1990". US Census Bureau. Retrieved July 10, 2014.
  17. ^ "Census 2000 PHC-T-4. Ranking Tables for Counties: 1990 and 2000" (PDF). United States Census Bureau. Archived (PDF) from the original on March 27, 2010. Retrieved July 10, 2014.
  18. ^ a b "Wells County QuickFacts". US Census Bureau. Archived from the original on June 7, 2011. Retrieved September 25, 2011.
  19. ^ "QuickFacts. Wells County IN". US Census Bureau. Retrieved July 26, 2019.
  20. ^ a b c "Profile of General Population and Housing Characteristics: 2010 Demographic Profile Data". US Census Bureau. Archived from the original on February 13, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2015.
  21. ^ "Selected Social Characteristics in the US – 2006-2010 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates". US Census Bureau. Archived from the original on February 14, 2020. Retrieved July 10, 2015.
  22. ^ "American FactFinder - Results". factfinder.census.gov. Archived from the original on February 14, 2020. Retrieved February 3, 2022.
  23. ^ "2020 CENSUS - SCHOOL DISTRICT REFERENCE MAP: Wells County, IN" (PDF). U.S. Census Bureau. Archived (PDF) from the original on July 23, 2022. Retrieved July 23, 2022. - Text list

40°44′N 85°13′W / 40.73°N 85.22°W / 40.73; -85.22

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