It was named for Gen. Eleazer Wheelock Ripley, an officer in the War of 1812, who figured in the Battle of Lundy's Lane and the Siege of Fort Erie during 1814.

Representatives are elected from county districts, serving four-year terms.

They are charged with executing the acts legislated by the council, collecting revenue, and managing the day-to-day functions of the county government.

Each of these elected officers serves a term of four years and oversees a different part of county government.

Adams and Laughery Townships are located in the 55th House District which is represented by Rep. Cindy Ziemke.

The rest of Ripley County is located in the 67th district represented by Rep. Randy Frye.

Federal Government: Ripley County is part of Indiana's 6th congressional district and is represented in Congress by Republican Greg Pence.

As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 28,818 people, 10,789 households, and 7,910 families residing in the county.