Historical Freight Transport Between Columbus and Indianapolis: Pre- and Post-1847

Goods Transport: Columbus to Indianapolis

Before 1847

• Foot or horseback (most common).
• Wagon (larger loads, slower).
• Riverboat (Ohio & White Rivers; faster for bulk).
• Canal (Whitewater Canal, 1836–1847; slower than riverboats).

After 1847

• Railroad (National Road completed 1847; primary route, faster, reliable).
• Truck (early 20th century; faster, versatile, eventually replaced rail).