Located in the Northeast corner of Indiana, Angola is the County Seat of Steuben County. Angola was founded in June of 1838 by Thomas Gale and Cornelius Gilmore and is the home to Trine University. The population is 9,366 (as of July 1, 2025).
The Mound: At the Heart of Historic Downtown Angola
At the center of downtown Angola stands one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks—The Monument, affectionately known by locals as “The Mound” or “The Circle.” More than a familiar feature of downtown, The Mound offers visitors a glimpse into Angola and Steuben County’s proud history.
Built in 1917 by E.M. Heltzer, the Monument honors the men of Steuben County who served during the American Civil War. Four statues representing the branches of military service surround the Monument, while atop it stands Columbia, facing east.
The Monument was unveiled on Thursday, September 13, 1917, at 1 p.m., in a ceremony that drew considerable attention and celebration. Its original construction cost $17,000—a remarkable investment at the time and equivalent to more than $1 million today.
The Monument's plaques carry the names of 1,278 men from Steuben County who fought in the Civil War. In a remarkable testament to the community's commitment to the Union cause, Steuben County had a higher per-capita enlistment rate than any other county in Indiana.
Today, The Mound remains much more than a historic monument. It continues to serve as a gathering place for community celebrations, festivals, and special events, connecting Angola's past with the life of the city today.
As you explore downtown Angola, take a moment to visit The Mound, look closely at the names preserved on its plaques, and imagine the stories represented by this enduring landmark. Here, history isn't simply remembered—it remains part of the heart of Angola.
Nearby, the Steuben County Courthouse, recognizable by its distinctive cupola, adds another historic presence to the downtown landscape. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the courthouse and The Mound together help tell the story of Angola's historic downtown and its enduring sense of community.
To see more of what Angola has to offer, please visit:
Explore Angola
