The Barker Mansion

📚🏛️ Calling all young historians! 🏛️📚

Join us for Homeschool History Hangout, a fun and educational hour designed for homeschool children to explore fascinating historical topics, make new friends, and journey through time together! 🕰️✨

Perfect for young minds eager to learn and connect. Don’t miss out!

🌈 Come make beautiful friendship bracelets, meet new friends, and enjoy a morning full of excitement!

🧵 Bracelet-Making Station: Get creative with bright threads, sparkling beads, and cool charms.

🎶 Music & Dance Party: Dance to lively music and celebrate the joy of friendship!

🧃 Light refreshments will be served. Recommended for ages 6-12 (children must be with an adult). Don’t miss out on the fun! 🎈

Join us at The Barker Cottage for this FREE event! This is the perfect opportunity for you and your child to bond, play, and explore together.

👶 What to Expect: ✨ Engaging activities designed to boost creativity and development 🌸 Time to connect with other parents and share experiences 🎨 Enjoy a story, make a take home craft and have a treat! Recommended for ages 305 years old.

Tag a fellow parent who would love this and register at barkermansion.org/events! 🙌

FREE admission today from 4PM - 6PM for all 46360 residents!

We are excited to announce that guided tours will now be available on Sundays, giving you even more opportunities to explore The Barker Mansion and its rich history!

Searching for a unique and charming venue for your upcoming event? Look no further than The Barker Cottage – located next door to The Barker Mansion!

From weddings and anniversaries to corporate or family gatherings, The Barker Cottage offers a versatile and picturesque setting for any occasion.

For bookings and inquiries, drop us a message or visit our website https://barkermansion.org/rental-inquiry/

🕵️‍♀️🍷 Looking for a night out with a twist?

Join us at The Barker Cottage for Mystery, Whiskey, & Charcuterie! Dive into Agatha Christie’s "Murder on the Orient Express," while enjoying premium whiskeys from Journeyman Distillery and a mouthwatering charcuterie board.

Get ready for an evening of lively discussions, intriguing plots, and delicious spirits. 21+ only. Tickets are limited, so grab yours now and make it a night to remember! 🎟️✨

purchase your tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/agatha-christie-whiskey-at-the-barker-cottage/

Grandfather clocks are majestic timepieces and more than just clocks: They are family heirlooms, conversation starters, and a symbol of tradition. Their intricate carvings, rich wood tones, and the gentle tick tocks of the pendulum create a sense of peace and history in any room.

Our grandfather clock can be seen in the architect Frederick W. Perkins sketches presented to Mr. & Mrs. Barker for the expansion of the mansion from 1905-1909. In the upper right corner of the photograph labeled 1909, you can see the clock in place on the landing of the grand staircase. In the next photo, taken when the mansion was a Purdue University study center, the top of the clock is visible behind students on the stairs. Our tall case clock has witnessed life at the Barker Mansion for nearly 120 years.

Many thanks to Clock Repair Haus for helping us care for this timeless gem! Enjoy a behind the scenes clip of our lovely grandfather clock chiming away.

🌟✨ Get Ready for an Exciting September at The Barker Mansion! ✨🌟

As we transition from summer to fall, we've got a lineup of incredible events and activities to welcome the new season. For tickets and further information, visit our website or drop by the Mansion. We can't wait to see you there!

Discover the legacy of innovation and industry at The Barker Mansion's permanent exhibit "Haskell & Barker Car Company and the Legacy of Freight"! Explore the fascinating history of the pioneering company that revolutionized freight transportation. From intricate model trains & factories to stunning historical artifacts, this exhibit offers a glimpse into how Haskell & Barker shaped the future of railroads.

Chris Grohs from Terrawood Design & Custom Wood Craft will provide an in-depth look at the extensive restoration of The Barker Mansion's grand staircase. Chris will share the challenges and intricacies involved in bringing this magnificent architectural feature back to its former glory.

Purchase your tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/conservation-conversations-chris-grohs/

🌟 Join Us for Our Volunteer Open House at The Barker Mansion! 🌟

Discover how you can make a difference at The Barker Mansion by joining us for our Volunteer Open House! Explore the historic charm of the Mansion, meet our passionate team, and learn about exciting opportunities.

📅 Date: August 24th, 2024
🕒 Time: 10AM-4PM
📍 Location: The Barker Mansion

We look forward to welcoming you!

THANK YOU...for an amazing first two months at The Barker Mansion! Your support and enthusiasm have made our reopening a fantastic success. As we continue to offer engaging tours, Special events, and delightful experiences, we look forward to sharing even more of the Mansion's charm with you.

Enjoy Free Admission Friday (8/2) at The Barker Mansion. Bring your family and friends for a wonderful evening of history and fun.

*Proof of residence required at time of admission.

🏛️🌟 Looking for an enriching experience for your next group outing or field trip? Look no further than The Barker Mansion! 🌟🏛️

👨‍🏫 The Barker Mansion offers an incredible opportunity for students and groups to step back in time and explore the lavish lifestyle of the early 20th century.

🎩 From guided tours that highlight The Mansion's architectural beauty to interactive exhibits that bring history to life, there's something here for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

📚 Perfect for school groups, clubs, and organizations, The Barker Mansion provides a memorable educational experience that sparks curiosity and inspires imagination.

🚌 For bookings please call The Mansion at (219) 873 - 1520

Enjoy an afternoon of sophistication and charm as we take a step back into the Roaring Twenties and all that jazz! Dress in your finest 1920’s attire as we all join Rip Roaring Rita for a lesson in “The Charleston.” Each ticket to an afternoon tea at The Barker Mansion includes a guided tour of the historic estate. Seating is limited so please purchase tickets in advance!

To purchase tickets please visit: https://barkermansion.org/events/gatsby-tea-party-in-the-garden/

Experience historic preservation in action at The Barker Mansion!

Alexa Cano, Collection Care Coordinator at the Mansion, is seen vacuuming “The Stag Hunt,” one of two tapestries commissioned by architect Frederick Perkins from the fashionable William Baumgarten & Co. of New York in 1907. Conservation of the tapestries requires careful inspection and specialized treatment.

As a working museum, we offer the public a unique glimpse into both the past and present through active restoration and preservation projects and an immersive experience of the Gilded Age. Come see for yourself!

Purchase your tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/

Join us as we welcome Patrick Cudzilo of the Monon Connection Museum of White County, Indiana. The Monon Connection Museum is the largest private collection of railroad items shared with the public in the United States. Patrick will discuss all things railroad and provide an in-depth overview of the Flagler Car #90, which was built in the late 1890’s.

Purchase tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/history-hour-railroads/

🌟 Step into the magic of The Barker Mansion's Drawing Room when sunlight dances through its windows! ✨

Experience the Drawing Room like never before as the golden rays illuminate every intricate detail of its Victorian-era splendor.

Don't miss this breathtaking sight—visit us and witness The Barker Mansion's Drawing Room in its full glory today! 🕰️🏛️

Calling all soon-to-be newlyweds! Explore the timeless beauty of The Barker Mansion at our Bridal Open House on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

Discover the perfect spaces for your ceremony, reception, and bridal party. Explore the lush oasis of our walled garden and envision your special day in our unique turn-of-the-century setting.

Purchase tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/bridal-open-house/
*self-guided tour included with ticket purchase

🌟✨ A Day in the Archives: Polishing Silver at Barker Mansion ✨🌟

Today, we delved into the rich history of The Barker Mansion by giving some TLC to the beautiful silver pieces in our collection. Each piece tells a story, shimmering with the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era. 🕰️💎

As we carefully polished these treasures, we couldn't help but imagine the grand events and distinguished guests they once graced. From intricately designed tea sets to ornate candelabras, the silver collection at The Barker Mansion is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of the past. 🕯️🍵

It's a privilege to preserve these artifacts, ensuring that their beauty continues to shine for future generations. If you haven't yet, come visit us and take a step back in time to experience the splendor of The Barker Mansion. OPEN TODAY 11AM-4PM 🏛️✨

The Barker Mansion is now available for wedding rentals. Picture saying "I do" surrounded by historic charm and lush gardens, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Let's make your dream wedding a reality! Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning the celebration of a lifetime.

www.barkermansion.org/rental-inquiry/

Hear Ye! By royal decree of King John and Queen Cordelia, you are cordially invited to partake in a morning of regal and splendor at the Royal Gala in the Garden. The King and Queen request that you dress in your finest prince or princess, duke or duchess attire for a morning of nobility and family fun! Join us for a royal story, bejewel your own crown, and join the majestic parade all in the historic Barker Mansion Garden.

Purchase your tickets at: https://barkermansion.org/events/enchanted-garden-hour-series-royal-gala-in-the-garden/

Introducing the Barker Cottage, a new addition to The Barker Mansion campus. The Barker Cottage extends the Barker Family legacy by providing a charming space for rentals, exhibits, family activities and smaller social gatherings.

Join us on Friday, July 19th at 5PM CDT for a ribbon cutting ceremony featuring an art exhibit by local artist, David Hugg. Light refreshments will be served.

Calling all Fairies and Explorers - Join us Saturday July 20th @ 10:00AM!

✨🧚‍♀️ Embark on a magical morning adventure in Fairyland at The Barker Mansion Garden. Join garden fairy Willow Whispering and the renowned Fairy Godmother as they lead you through an hour of fantastical family fun. 🌿🏰

Listen to enchanting stories, craft your own fairy wand, and receive your official Fairy Name certificate, all in the historic Barker Mansion Garden. Don't forget to wear your fairy wings so you can frolic into Fairyland! 🧚‍♂️✨

Don't miss out on this whimsical experience! Reserve your spot today and let the magic begin! 🌸 Click below to purchase your tickets:

https://barkermansion.org/events/enchanted-garden-hour-series-fairyland-in-the-garden/

Step into the magical world of the Gilded Age at The Barker Mansion! Explore the art of tea etiquette and don your most elegant attire for an afternoon filled with charm. Join author Sandra L. Young as she unveils "Divine Vintage," a novel that draws inspiration from vintage fashion and the captivating allure of a fictionalized mansion in Michigan City. Come and experience a reimagined bygone era at The Barker Mansion. ✨🎩☕

https://barkermansion.org/events/gilded-age-tea-party/

🌞 Celebrate the First Day of Summer at The Barker Mansion! 🌞

Join us on the first day of summer for a fun-filled day of exploring The Barker Mansion. Enjoy games in the garden, which is included with purchase of a general admission ticket! It's the perfect way to enjoy warm weather, soak in the beautiful surroundings, and create lasting memories with family and friends.

We can't wait to see you there! 🌞

Just a reminder we are closed for the holiday, but looking forward to welcoming everyone back tomorrow!