Madison, Indiana, (population 12,000) is a thriving historic, cultural and commercial center on the border of Kentucky, halfway between Louisville and Cincinnati. Once a major Ohio River port, Madison now celebrates its scenic riverfront as an extension of its small-town character. Purchased at a government auction in 1809 for $2.50 an acre, a site on the Ohio River was named Madison in honor of then-President James Madison. It became a major river port and outfitting supplier for pioneers heading into the Old Northwest Territory. Trappers, hunters, and settlers from New England, the South and the East left their imprint by incorporating their local architectural styles into new homes. Madison's architectural mix of Georgian, Federal, Regency, Classic Revival, Gothic, and Italianate buildings, all built before the Civil War, is unique to Southern Indiana. Madison's eight museums are 19th century buildings of a fascinating range of styles and histories. The Lanier Mansion was the Greek Revival home of James Lanier, who helped the state equip Union troops during the Civil War; the Jeremiah Sullivan House features the only known restored Federal serving kitchen in the country; and the octagonal Madison Railroad Station was built when Madison emerged as a major rail center during the 1840s. The town's scenic riverfront park is home to several open-air festivals, brick walkways, benches, and visiting riverboats. Its downtown offers antique stores, specialty gift shops, restaurants, cafes, and a classic movie theater in restored buildings that date back to more than 100 years ago. Local theater groups perform year-round, and musical performances include monthly bluegrass concerts and Music in the Park performed along the riverfront and in outdoor parks. Special events in Madison also celebrate its history, with garden tours in the historic district, antique and craft markets, and the Chelsea Jubilee, Indiana's oldest festival that for more than 130 years has featured music, rides, a rodeo, and flea market. Eight local organizations are dedicated to preserving Madison's historical treasures, with great success: all 133 blocks of downtown Madison are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. In 1977, Madison was one of the first three pilot sites for the Main Street program, which helps communities revitalize their downtowns and maintain their uniqueness through historic preservation. It has been a Main Street Community ever since.