This study has presented a comprehensive study on the growth, change, and architectural character of an Ohio River town between 1816 and 1996 using New Albany, Indiana as a case study. The evidence suggest that the majority of New Albany's physical growth occurred between 1838 and 1859, and also between 1953 and 1977. The economy of New Albany transformed several times through the course of its existence. New Albany was first supported by the ship building industry. Many boat manufacturers established ship yards along the banks of the Ohio River in New Albany. The ship building industry in New Albany became non-existent in the early 1970s. The glassmaking industry that replaced the ship building industry was also located along the banks , of the Ohio River.The early twentieth century and the closure of the glass-making industry began a transformation of the location of industries in New Albany. When hardwood companies established plants in New Albany, several were attracted to the undeveloped, flat land in the northeastern fringe of the city. This process of development in the north and northeastern section of the city still continues today.The architectural character that was established in New Albany in the late 1800s remained until the early 1960s and urban renewal. Many historic structures in New Albany were demolished in the 1960s and early 1970s. Much of New Albany's architectural character today was constructed during that period. However, New Albany still retains several historic buildings, and increased preservation efforts has lead to the rehabilitation of many of them. / Department of Architecture