River Mile: 506

Population: 2,248

U.S. Census Profile

The first documented settlers of the area—which enjoyed a wildlife-rich elevation above the river—were relatives of steamboat inventor Samuel Fulton. Although Europeans had lived there since Northwest Ordinance of 1787 removed the threat of attack from Native Americans, the town wasn’t registered as Rising Sun until 1816, by Maryland native John James. Conflicting legends explain the origin of the town’s name, but regardless, it thrived in the early 1800’s, with a substantial German population. Hundreds of flatboats left Rising Sun each spring, loaded with locally produced goods, and major farm-machinery producer Clore Plow was another economic engine. The town’s prosperity waned after it failed to get a railway connection in the late 1800’s, though Clore Plow remained until 1910. A lumberyard and furniture production, among other remaining businesses kept the town afloat through the 20th century. In 1996, the town’s economy got a shot in the arm when the Rising Star Casino Resort opened, bringing thousands of visitors each year.