Crown Point, Indiana Downtown Square

	Those who have strolled the sidewalks of downtown Crown Point can attest that such a venture typically results in a small town reminiscence. Crown Point takes pride in its impressive historic storefronts which line the streets of the town square. A walk through the doors of these stately structures easily conjures up images of an attractive by-gone age.
	The Allman Block Building (1891), on the corner of Clark and Main Streets, stands as one of the more prominent and ornate of the structures on the town square.
	At 213 South Main Street, the Masonic Temple has required little alteration since its construction in 1919.
	The Carnegie Center, originally the Crown Point Library, was established with a grant from the Carnegie Foundation. Now a meeting hall for a fraternal organization, this brick structure is located at 223 South Main Street, just south of the town square.
	Showcasing an interior well worth a visit, the Lake County Criminal Court Building occupies a pub featuring John Dillinger memorabilia. Also inside is a grand ballroom, once the large courtroom which features a grand-scale antique mural.
	The Sheriff’s House (built in 1882) is currently being refurbished through efforts of the Sheriff’s House Foundation. The front portion of the building was home to sheriffs for 76 continual years. The back portion of the building was the Lake County Jail, the place where John Dillinger made his fantastic escape in 1934. An example of European Second Empire style, the Sheriff’s House is within easy walking distance of the town square (232 South Main Street). Tours are available by contacting the Crown Point Chamber of Commerce.
	The People's Bank building, erected in 1910, now facilitates the Northern Indiana Arts Association. Standing at the southeast corner of the square, the bank building exhibits a splendid limestone exterior. As were many other banks, People's Bank was closed during the Depression.
	The Antique Mall, all three stories, occupies the corner of West Joliet Street and Main Street. Part of the Antique Mall was once Cheshire Hall. [See Antique Mall.] Cheshire Hall, named after its builder W. W. Cheshire, was built in 1873 to host lectures, concerts, plays, and other events. Amongst its esteemed guest speakers were Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. Still standing on the south side of the town square, this structure is now a part of the Antique Mall.