It is obvious we are in the season of climate change outdoors, but the indoor climate change has its own unique characteristics.  All homes react differently in each season, including the Hormel Historic Home.

Floor noises change, wind finds its way in through the smallest of cracks, doors close differently, and the piano needs watering.  Yes, the piano needs watering when it has a humidifier attached to maintain the proper moisture levels for the pads.

At this time of year, we remove the space heaters that make the office bearable in the winter and often have to open a window to allow the heat from the radiators to escape even after we turn them off. The sun, when it shines, heats the south side of the house wonderfully, and the atrium becomes a source of solar energy that boosts my spirits every time I walk through it.

A common question we hear from male visitors is about how the home is heated and cooled.  Being a girl, I had to do some research on this in order to understand and answer the question.  What I do know is that the radiators put off a comforting heat, and the heat lasts. Turning one off does not change the temperature in the room for quite some time. At one time there was discussion of removing the boiler system and radiators, but with the urging of the Minnesota Historical Society the efficient and charming reminder of the past was preserved to showcase this part of HVAC history.

Coal supplied heat to the home in the early 1900s. It is documented that following his retirement and move to California, George Hormel purchased 100 tons of coal each year for the YWCA. There is evidence of a chimney in the basement where the coal was burned. When city steam became available Mr. Hormel modified the YWCA system and added an auxiliary heating unit. At some point in time a forced heating and cooling system was added leading to a basement full of ductwork.

Some historic properties have made the changes necessary to add basements and attics to their tours, but the HHH is not currently equipped to do this. The stairs are narrow and the ceilings low. However, much can be learned about history by crawling in tight spaces and studying the floors from the bottom side.

I am really looking forward to some stabilizing in the outdoor climate, but I do enjoy the indoor climate changes as they often reveal items of interest within our old home.

Stepping Out for Autism Walk

10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, April 23

Special appearance by the Teddy Bear Band at 11:45 a.m. Register at the HHH or at www.hormelhistorichome.org

 Theory of Mind Theatrical Portrayal

7 p.m. – 8 p.m., free Tuesday, April 26

Twin Cities theater group will tell the story of a young man with Asperger’s Syndrome who deals with the tugs, shifts and about-faces found on the autism spectrum. Please call to reserve a spot. Call 507-433-4243 for more information.