Lebanon in Boone County, Indiana — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
Don and Mel Kenyon
Photographed by Trevor L Whited, April 18, 2021
1. Don and Mel Kenyon Marker
Brothers Mel and Don Kenyon impacted American open wheel racing in a way which, perhaps, will never be duplicated. Mel began his career in 1954, driving stock cars. When Don left the Air Force, in 1958, they bought a midget with his mustering out pay. With Mel driving and Don the mechanic, two incredible careers were born. The duo would go on to win in excess of 390 midget races worldwide, including the famed Turkey Night Grand Prix twice, 111 USAC events, and 7 USAC Midget Championships.
In a 1965 accident Mel was severely burned, losing part of his left hand. That didn't stop the Kenyon's. With their Dad's help, they created a device that allowed Mel to drive. He went on to his greatest Triumphs, and competed in 8 Indianapolis 500's. Mel has received many awards, but he's quick to admit that his relationship with God is more important than all the recognition. It's what brought comfort as he cared for his wife in the last years of Marieanne's life. Originally from Dekalb Illinois, The Kenyon's have proudly made Lebanon their home since the 1960's.
Erected by Indiana Racing Memorial Association.
Topics.
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Location. 40° 3.497′ N, 86° 28.254′ W. Marker is in Lebanon, Indiana, in Boone County. It is on North Lebanon Street (Indiana Route 39) north of West Camp Street, on the right when traveling north. The marker stands on the west side of Memorial Park. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1304 N Lebanon St, Lebanon IN 46052, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in Central Indiana and specifically in Greater Indianapolis. It is also in the American Midwest and in the Corn Belt. Globally, it is in North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture and also the Northwest Territory.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Boone County Veterans Memorial (approx. 0.2 miles away); Ulen Country Club and The Town of Ulen, Indiana (approx. 0.3 miles away);
Photographed by Trevor L Whited, April 18, 2021
2. Don and Mel Kenyon Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on February 15, 2025. It was originally submitted on January 30, 2025, by Trevor L Whited of Kokomo, Indiana. This page has been viewed 442 times since then and 87 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 30, 2025, by Trevor L Whited of Kokomo, Indiana. • Devry Becker Jones was the editor who published this page.
