Platted in 1815, Orleans stands as the oldest town in Orange County. Founded two months after Andrew Jackson's famous victory over the British at New Orleans, the settlers named their new town to honor this event. Samuel Lewis, one of the founders, later became a prominent figure in Texas after he fought for Texas independence from Mexico and served as a senator in the first two congresses of the the Republic of Texas under Sam Houston's presidency.

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Dogwood Capital of Indiana Dogwood trees line Ind. 37 in northern Orange County. The dogwood is the trademark of Orleans. "Operation Dogwood," launched in the mid 1960's has succeeded in its goal of having hundreds of the trees planted along roads, in the historic town park square and in yards. The annual Dogwood Festival is held in late April.

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The Historic Orleans Town Square is called "Congress Square." meaning public square, or it is referred to as "Seminary Square." after the Orleans Academy that stood there from 1864 to 1963. Whatever it is called, the square has something for everyone: shelterhouses, playground equipment, a recently restored picturesque 1926 brick bandstand or gazebo, vintage gas lights, Veterans Memorial area etc. Vistors also enjoy the beautiful fountain and sculpture located in the center of the park.

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The Railroad - In the winter of 1851-52, the L.N.A. & Railroad (then called the New Albany-Salem Railroad) was built to come through the town. To secure the railroad for Orleans, the Citizens gave $40,000, all by private subscription, which considering the time and size of the town was a remarkably large amount.

The railroad curved to pass through the town and add greatly to the development of the community. Three hotels, with livery stables, were needed to accommodate the travelers brought into the town by the railroads.

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Stetson House - One of the more famous stories linked with Orleans pertains to the loves of Elizabeth, or Libbie Shindler. While visiting her relatives in Philadelphia, the young lady from Orleans met the wealthy hat manufacturer and widower John B. Stetson, and they were married soon afterwards. Elizabeth became heiress to the Stetson hat fortune after her husband's death
in 1906. Elizabeth next married a Portuguese nobleman and took the title of countess.

While she was Mrs. Stetson, her husband presented a house to her parents. The house was precut and fabricated in Philadelphia. Imported workers constructed the house in Orleans around 1894. The house is known as the "story book house," or "the house that hats built."