In March of 1991, five neighborhood residents, led by Mrs. Jean Spears, met to formalize a new neighborhood association.  The name they chose was Ransom Place, after the lawyer and civic leader Freeman Briley Ransom who lived in the neighborhood for 37 years.  Spears has since played a major role in the effort to get the Ransom Place neighborhood recognized for its historical significance.  In 1992, the effort had paid off.  Ransom Place was added to the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its vernacular architecture and its historic position in the African-American community.  The Neighborhood was officially dedicated in a ceremony on May 10, 1992.  In 1993, the house that was to become the Heritage Learning Center was moved from its location in the 1200 block of N. West Street to 830 N. West Street, where it serves visitors to the Neighborhood today. 

Located adjacent to an expanding University and revitalized downtown, Historic Ransom Place has reestablished itself as an important part of African-American and Indianapolis history.  The Heritage Learning Center continues to promote architectural preservation and African-American local history through oral, written, and mixed media presentations.  Currently, the Neighborhood Association holds monthly meetings dedicated to Neighborhood business.   

Our Logo

Our logo was designed by graphic artist James S. Benn III and JSB Design and Talent in 1991 with grant support from the Arts Council of Indianapolis and Indiana Arts for Humanities.

The radiating sunlight and quilt in the logo symbolize preservation of and continued concern for our area's history, heritage, and houses.