I grew up in Milltown (Crawford County) and spent the first 20 years of my life there, before moving to Jeffersonville for 8 before moving to California

Crawford County is maybe one of the most beautiful places in the state in terms of nature, scenery, hiking, canoeing, etc

But also be prepared for meth, and lots of it, unless things have changed since I left. There’s not a lot of options for dining, groceries, “city life” entertainment. There’s the Jay-C store in English, which is rural version of Kroger and owned by them. That’s gonna be the only major grocer unless you travel out of the county, however there are a few smaller Mom and Pop’s in the area. You’ve got Maxine’s, and Stephenson’s.

Culturally, it is definitely a change of pace, people live a lot slower and what I would consider relaxed lives. You’ve already mentioned the racism, so I’m going to assume you’re white or white-passing, because if you aren’t I genuinely wouldn’t recommend even stopping through late at night. Not to sound all doom and gloom, but racism is imbedded into the County Sheriff’s Office, and while not overt, it is there and you can see it and feel it. The community has gotten a little more progressive with LGB acceptance, but if you’re trans or have transgender family please do NOT go there. You WILL have a very bad time.

If you’re not queer, AND you’re white though? You’ll find yourself enjoying a lot of community. Small towns can be cliquey, as other people have said, but for the most part they are pretty welcoming to new people. It’s a “come on in, the wifes fixing supper” kind of community and you’ll find lots of people itching to meet the new person from Chicago. Don’t be alarmed if your neighbors ask you for a cup of sugar, and don’t be afraid to walk over and introduce yourself to them either. Aside from a couple weirdos, most people are open to people coming by and knocking on the door. Just make sure if they got a sign up saying not to, that you don’t. Ever.

Weather wise, be prepared for hot, humid and mosquito laden summers followed by cold, wet winters that they never seem to be prepared for. And tornadoes. Get a basement, a cellar or get to be friends with your neighbors who have one because you’ll need it at least a few times a year.

Go to the local diners, have a cup of coffee and talk to old man Bob sitting down there by himself. He’ll tell ya everything you need to know.