Founded by the French in the early eighteenth century, Vincennes still is home to reminders of the time when it was the last outpost on the American frontier. Earlier still, the builders of ancient earthen mounds left their monuments to the historic legacy of this area. The location advantages that brought early settlement persist to this day. U.S. Highway 41 parallels the route of an old buffalo trace and links Vincennes to the excellent transportation network of the Midwestern United States. Vincennes offers the advantages of a wholesome small city environment in a scenic rural setting.
Recreational opportunities abound, and cultural resources are plentiful.
Seasonal changes bring different activities, from boating and fishing on the Wabash River in the summer to high school and college sports in the fall and winter. Vincennes is a welcome retreat from the pressure and pace of big city living, yet is with in easy driving distance of the amenities of some of the Midwest's larger cities such as Indianapolis, St. Louis, Chicago, Louisville and Cincinnati. Vincennes offers a variety of local retail stores featuring general merchandise and many specialties. The downtown business district is being renovated with new sidewalks, fixtures, trees and benches. With easy drive of Vincennes are larger enclosed shopping malls located in both Terre Haute and Evansville.