Lighting Regulations in Boswell, Indiana: A Guide to the Town's Minimal Public Safety Requirements

Introduction: Understanding Boswell's Historical Context

Known affectionately as the "Hub of the Universe," Boswell, Indiana has maintained its small-town charm since its founding in 1872 by Parnaham Boswell. This southern Benton County community of nearly 800 residents balances its accessible location along US Highway 41 with a strong commitment to preserving its historical character.

The town's origins trace back to Charles Moore, who initially laid out the town, before the land was sold to Elizabeth H. Scott. Together with her husband Charles, they replatted Boswell into the form we recognize today. This family-oriented foundation is reflected in the town's street names, which honor the founders and their children.

Boswell takes pride in its architectural heritage, including its beautifully restored Carnegie library and the historic Rosenberger general store—both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This commitment to preservation reflects the community's values of education, history, and maintaining its distinctive small-town atmosphere.

Quick Reference Guide: Boswell's Lighting Regulation

Based on the available municipal code information for Boswell, Indiana, there is only one specific lighting regulation that property owners and residents need to be aware of:

• § 93.045 LANTERNS OR LIGHT REQUIRED: It is unlawful to encumber any street, alley, or other public grounds with items like old cars, machinery, household furniture, or other goods without fastening sufficient lanterns or other suitable lights on these items between sunset and sunrise.

Understanding Boswell's Public Safety Lighting Requirement

Purpose of the Regulation

This straightforward regulation serves an important public safety function in Boswell. By requiring lights on objects left in public spaces overnight, the town ensures that pedestrians and vehicles can navigate safely during dark hours.

What Constitutes an "Encumbrance"

The regulation specifically mentions several examples of items that would require lighting if left in public spaces:

• Old cars
• Machinery
• Household furniture
• Other goods

Lighting Requirements

While the regulation doesn't specify technical lighting requirements like:

• Minimum brightness
• Light color
• Type of lantern or light

It does require that the lighting be "sufficient" to mark the presence of the obstruction between sunset and sunrise.

Areas Covered by the Regulation

This lighting requirement applies specifically to:

• Streets
• Alleys
• Other public grounds

Private property is not mentioned in this specific regulation.

What Property Owners Should Know

Compliance Is Straightforward

For Boswell residents, complying with the town's lighting regulation is relatively simple:

• If you must temporarily leave items in a public space overnight, ensure they are clearly marked with lights
• Modern battery-powered lanterns or safety lights can easily satisfy this requirement
• Remember that this applies from sunset to sunrise—the exact times of which vary throughout the year

Safety Beyond Compliance

While Boswell's official lighting regulations are minimal, property owners can still embrace good lighting practices that enhance safety and complement the town's historic character:

• Consider motion-activated lights for security while minimizing light pollution
• Choose warm-colored lighting that complements Boswell's historic atmosphere
• Position lights to illuminate pathways and entrances without creating glare for neighbors

Historical Consideration

The regulation's reference to "lanterns" reflects Boswell's historical roots, dating back to when oil lanterns would have been used to mark obstructions. Today's modern equivalents serve the same essential safety function.

Supporting Boswell's Community Vision

At Bock Lighting, we understand the unique character of small towns like Boswell that balance safety needs with historical preservation. Founded in 1918 in Northeast Ohio, our company has a deep appreciation for communities that cherish their architectural heritage while accommodating modern needs.

Preserving Small-Town Character

We recognize that Boswell's minimal lighting regulations reflect its small-town approach to governance—focusing on essential safety while allowing residents flexibility. This approach aligns with our philosophy that lighting should enhance, not detract from, a community's distinctive character.

Educational Resources for Historic Communities

While Boswell may have limited formal lighting requirements, we believe in providing educational resources to help residents make informed lighting choices that respect their town's historical aesthetic. Our team understands the architectural styles typical of communities established in the late 19th century, like Boswell.

Regional Understanding and Support

As a regional manufacturer with over a century of experience, we appreciate Boswell's commitment to preserving landmarks like its Carnegie library and historic general store. We see our role as supporting communities in maintaining their unique identity through appropriate lighting choices.

Conclusion: Embracing Boswell's Approach to Lighting

Boswell's single lighting regulation focused on public safety encapsulates the town's practical, commonsense approach to governance. This minimal regulatory stance reflects the community's trust in its residents while ensuring basic safety standards are maintained.

For those living in or visiting this "Hub of the Universe," understanding this regulation is straightforward—if you must leave items in public spaces overnight, make sure they're properly lit to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

While Boswell may not have extensive lighting codes, its commitment to preserving its historical character while maintaining a safe, accessible community remains evident. This balance of preservation and practical safety measures continues to make Boswell a distinctive small town with a rich heritage and bright future.