A Strong Foundation, Standing the Test of Time
In 1890 Milo H. Cripe opened the doors of Cripe Abstract in Goshen-Elkhart County, Indiana. Little did he know, 132 years later Near North Title Group continues to keep his legacy alive. We like to think that Mr. Cripe and Near North Title Group share similar missions by partnering and protecting our clients, and values by putting emphasis on building relationships, knowledge, responsiveness, integrity and community. Those key elements seem to be the secret to success and longevity.
As of 2022, Near North Title Group has over 25 offices in the Midwest and Florida and reaches over 10 billion dollars in title business transactions annually.
1929 Advertisement for Cripe Abstract Co.
Abstracts Insurance and Loans
Goshen, Indiana
Note: M.H. Cripe for Milo and W.M. Cripe for Walter
The History of Cripe Abstract to Today
1890-2022
Cripe Abstract stayed a family business for over 70 years. After Cripe retired, his son Walter and daughter-in-law, Nadine went on to run the company until the mid-1960s.
Photo of Cripe Abstract on the 100th block of West Lincoln Avenue, originally called Market Street
Photo of Cripe Abstract on the 100th block of West Lincoln Avenue, originally called Market Street
Left to right: Walter and Nadine Cripe, Son and Daughter-in-Law of Founder Milo H. Cripe
The 1960s – was a time of change and “to everything, turn, turn, turn” was a reality for many including the Cripe family. Walter and Nadine finally retired and sold the family business to Alta Hershberger.
All in the family—Alta a savvy business woman, decided to hire James Ingold in 1967. James was a hard worker, committed to the company and Alta for many years. By 1976, Ingold bought the company from Alta. James Ingold also happens to be Alta Hershberger’s son.
Seated (Left to Right): James Ingold and Alta Hershberger
In 1979, a young 16-year-old named Amy started one of her first jobs working at Cripe Abstracts, typing abstracts of course. By 1987, Amy rose to the position of office manager and business partner.
The young teenager, is the same Amy (Weatherholt) of the Near North Title Group’s Elkhart, Indiana office that we still know and love today. Amy proudly descends from a rich history comprising of three generations in the title industry dating back to her grandmother, Alta Hershberger and father James Ingold.
By the 1990s the company insured closings and changed the name to Cripe Title & Escrow, as a nod to the history of the office and to the founder, Milo H. Cripe. In 1999, Weatherholt and family sold the business. Since then changes were made, but luckily Near North Title Group was able acquire the company and keep the traditions, values and legacy alive.
They say nothing lasts forever but with a strong foundation, a common mission, values, integrity, vision, courage, hard work, grit, the support of community, family and friends, a truly remarkable idea can withstand the test of time. 132 years later, here we are. Thank you Mr. Cripe.
Elkhart Office-2022. Stay tuned for an exciting announcement coming!
Giant Map Display from the 1960s of Elkhart can be viewed in person at our Elkhart office.
Giant Map Display from the 1960s of Goshen can be viewed in person at our Elkhart office.
Photos courtesy of the Goshen Historical Society Museum and Amy Weatherholt.
