Get to know the Market's history

Indianapolis City Market is one of only five Public Markets in the United States that has been in continual operations since its creation. Per a legal agreement, the Market must operate as a public market, or the property will revert back to the Tomlinson heirs.

1823 – City Market platted by the City of Indianapolis

1886 – Tomlinson Hall (a meeting place, an exposition hall) and Market House built through civic donations

1958 – Tomlinson Hall burned leaving only the Market House, which is now the center place of the City Market

1974 – Historic preservation efforts lead to an $8 million renovation of the Market House and the building of two wings. Funded by Lilly Endowment and City of Indianapolis, the project coincided with the building of Market Square Arena.

1974 – City Market is placed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks by the National Park Service.

1988 – City Market incorporated as 501 (c)3; City continues to reimburse the Market for cost of utilities and some maintenance

1990 – City Market placed on the National Registry of Historic Landmarks

2005 – Formation of the Historic City Market Foundation to help ensure continued preservation of the Market; The Foundation received 501 (c) 3 status in 2007. The Foundation is considering hiring grant writer/professional fund-raiser to help raise funds for the Market

2007 – City Market underwent a $2.5 million renovation funded by Lilly Endowment, Central Indiana Community Foundation, City of Indianapolis and Local Initiative Support Corporation

2007– Leasing and Business Development campaign begins to bring a new formula of merchants to the market. Eleven (11) new leases supporting the new fresh food market paradigm are executed brining occupancy from 50 percent to 85 percent

2007– Merchants open or reopen in Historic Market House by November

2008 – June 23-28, 2008 City Market presents the new Market House and its merchants during a weeklong celebration