Born in Odon on July 17, 1889, Joseph Crook Dawson became one of the most acclaimed “Daredevils of The Speedways” during the formative years of auto racing in the United States. His most memorable accomplishment came in 1912, when he gained international fame by winning the Indianapolis 500. After retiring from driving, he remained active in the sport while contributing to the development of the early automotive industry. He worked as a development engineer for the Marmon Motor Car Company, where he was also a teammate of 1911 Indianapolis 500 winner Ray Harroun. He later worked in a similar role with Chalmers, racing their cars to many world speed records. He also served on the AAA Contest Board as a respected race official until his death on June 17, 1946. Throughout his successful life, he reflected the small-town American virtues of his Odon, Indiana birthplace.