Nearly $700K In Grants Awarded In Celebration Of Jim Tyson's 162nd Birthday

Seven organizations in Versailles will benefit from the grant money from the Tyson Fund.

(Versailles, Ind.) – Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been distributed throughout the Town of Versailles in celebration of “Uncle” Jim Tyson’s 162nd birthday.

On September 14, nearly $700,000 in Tyson Fund grant money was awarded to seven organizations in Versailles, reports The Versailles Republican. 

The Town of Versailles received over $374,000 for various projects, including the remodeling of the new town hall, sewer improvements, paving fund with Community Crossings matching dollars, paving of the walking trail at the Sports Complex and Mainstreet Versailles.

The Tyson Library received $148,655 for operating costs and other programs and services.

Nearly $65,000 was awarded to South Ripley Elementary School to replace a playground. Another 65-grand went to the Tyson Activity Center for paving, new entrance steps and new interior upgrades.

Versailles Fire and Rescue, the Versailles Lions Club and the Ripley County Historical Society also received grants that will go towards the payment on a fire truck, Pumpkin Show entertainment and office supplies.

Since 1930, the Tyson Fund has awarded approximately $15 million to various groups and organizations around Versailles.

More from Local News


Events

Applications Available for OCCF 2026 Scholarships

Application deadlines are February 27.

Whitewater Canal Historic Site Receives Commitment for $7 Million Matching Grant

The grant will support crucial work to restore and preserve the site. 

SEI Football Stars Earn Academic All-State Honors

Congratulations to all the honorees!

Local Sports Report - January 22, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Montgomery Gentry Gone 11:41
Dan + Shay Bigger Houses 11:36
Kenny Chesney Everybody Wants To Go To Heaven 11:33
Charley Pride I'm Gonna Love Her on the Radio 11:28