Origins of the name Naptown

January 12, 2025

For nearly 100 years, the term Naptown has been used as a nickname for the city of Indianapolis. The origin of the term Naptown has been a subject of debate for many decades. While the exact origins may never be known, the usage of Naptown was popularized on Indiana Avenue, and the name was spread nationally by local blues and boogie-woogie musicians. 

This week on Echoes of Indiana Avenue, listen to music celebrating Naptown from local jazz, blues, and soul musicians.