The town, named for pioneer John Bicknell, was founded in 1875 after the opening of the first bituminous coal mine in Indiana.
Mining is still important, although other industries have begun to predominate.
Leading products include lumber, women's clothing, and mobile homes. A mine rescue station is also located in the city. John Bicknell, born in Knox County married Eliza Ann Chansler, a neighbor girl, and became a prominent farmer. George Fuller, Emison, purchased the first lot in 1868 and built the first store which also contained his residence and the post office. The town began to grow.