Mile Square in Indianapolis in Marion County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Robert D. Orr, 1917-2004
Photographed By Craig Doda, September 3, 2023
1. Robert D. Orr, 1917-2004 Marker
Lieutenant Governor, 1973-1980
45th Governor of Indiana, 1981-1989
United States Ambassador to Singapore, 1989-1992
Appointed by President George H.W. Bush
Robert Dunkerson Orr was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan and grew up in Evansville, Indiana. A graduate of Yale University, he left Harvard Business School to enlist in the Army in 1942. He served in the Pacific Theatre, attained the rank of Major, and was awarded the Legion of Merit for his service. He then entered the family business, Orr Iron Company, in Evansville and became active in Vanderburgh County Republican politics.
He is remembered as the "Education Governor" for his belief that all Hoosier children could achieve their dreams if given the correct tools and encouragement. He created and lead the most far-reaching education reform to that point in Indiana history.
Governor Orr's reform efforts extended to overhauls of mental health hospitals, citizen access to public records, government accounting systems, and the creation of the Department of Environmental Management.
Governor Orr passionately believed in Indiana's potential as an international trading partner for the Pacific Rim countries. He opened trade offices in several Asian countries and attracted significant
this page online
Robert D. Orr brought a businessman's skills to the governor's office and a vision for Indiana's role in the global marketplace.
For his signal leadership and character, the common area among the state government buildings has been declared Robert D. Orr Plaza by an act of the Indiana General Assembly, Public Law 175, signed by Governor Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr., May 6, 2005.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Government & Politics. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #41 George H.W. Bush series list. A significant historical date for this entry is May 6, 2005.
Location. 39° 46.11′ N, 86° 9.829′ W. Marker is in Indianapolis, Indiana, in Marion County. It is in Mile Square. Marker can be reached from North Senate Avenue south of West Ohio Street, on the right when traveling south. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 100 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis IN 46204, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Christopher Columbus (within shouting distance of this marker); Without Coal (within shouting distance of this marker); 9/11 Memorial (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Historic National Road / Make History, Drive It (about 400 feet away); Robert Dale Owen (about
Photographed By Craig Doda, September 3, 2023
2. Robert D. Orr, 1917-2004 Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on September 27, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 14, 2023, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. This page has been viewed 56 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 14, 2023, by Craig Doda of Napoleon, Ohio. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
