Nike Missile Site CD-63

Introduction

Text-to-speech Audio

Many Hoosiers don't realize there's a Cold War missile site that is located in Indiana. Actually, there are multiple sites of this kind in Indiana. This particular site was made to protect Cincinnati and Dayton in the Cold War. That's how the site gets its name CD.

Images

Backstory and Context

Text-to-speech Audio

The Nike Missile site in Dillsboro, Indiana serves as an important reminder of a time in our Nation’s history. The site was created to defend the larger city of Cincinnati across the state border. The site began operating to protect the Ohio River Valley in 1960. IN 1971, it had closed for good. This site was one of roughly 300 in 29 states. It was supposed to be our last line of defense from Soviets. The site could hold 100 people at one time and had a supply of food to keep everyone alive for months.

The entire property is 14.5 acres. Silos and other bomb shelters remain in the location. Some of which, are still undisturbed. The current owner has the old US army blueprint making future restoration possible. The other similar sites also lay around big cities like Chicago. This is a fascinating site and its future hasn't been written yet. While parts have fallen into disrepair, attempts have been made to restore and even turn a silo to a luxurious hotel. I personally think it would make a great historical tour.

Sources

Mitchell, Dawn. “This Former Indiana Missile Silo Could Be Your New Home.” The Indianapolis Star, IndyStar, 21 Aug. 2019, www.indystar.com/story/news/history/2019/08/21/cold-war-nuclear-missile-silo-property-sale-dillsboro-indiana/2062069001/.

The Nike Preservation Group Newsletter, ed-thelen.org/npg-v3-5.html.