At this time last year I wrote, “I know 2016 is going to be another great year at the Hormel Historic Home.

“With a kitchen restoration on the horizon, the anticipation of increased tourism once the Spam Museum re-opens, and many fun parties, the HHH staff is ready for a new year!”

Well, my predications came true for the most part. The historic kitchen restoration project started in February and was completed in July. It would take me too many columns to describe all I learned through that project. It was a fun and rewarding endeavor and I am proud of the result.

Many area contractors helped us re-create a kitchen that represents the lifestyle of the Hormel family in the early 1900’s. The Spam Museum’s re-opening in April did impact the number of visitors to the HHH.

Over 2,000 guests came through the impressive front door of the Historic Home from April through December. They appreciated the craftsmanship and history found within and will spread the Hormel family legacy with others across the world as they return to their homes in places like Hawaii, Colorado, California, Pennsylvania, China, and Canada.

As for the fun parties I predicted, the HHH hosted a few and others planned their own special events. I like to call them parties, but in truth, these social happenings are the fundraising tool that helps us to raise necessary monies to preserve the Hormel’s home and history. Whether we plan them for you to enjoy or you attend a private event, every “party” allows us to share the hospitality that the Hormels were known for in the community. So, Auld Lang Syne to 2016 and here is a glimpse of what 2017 will bring.

Winter: A fun filled and beneficial Austin Wedding Showcase (Jan. 22); a new cooking series led by Hy-Vee chefs (Jan. 29); a successful Harris Music Contest which will now include instruments other than piano (Feb. 11); a celebration of George and Lillian Hormel’s 125th wedding anniversary at the Foodie Throwdown Fundraiser (Feb. 18); A special music opportunity for young people to explore musical concepts through movement and guided listening (March 25).

Spring: A bigger and better SpamKids Fest (April 8), a profitable Stepping Out for Autism Walk; New and improved historic exhibits.

Summer: Circle of Friends Day Camp, All Access Community Explorations and Camp Just for Me camps for young people on the autism spectrum; Peace Garden Concert Series.Fall: Fun and music filled Membership Recognition Parties; Festive Holiday Open House events.

It is fun to look back, but now is the time to look forward relying on the past to inspire the future. Happy New Year to all!

Hearth & Home Series

10 a.m., Monday, Jan. 9

Flood Walls in a Former Swampland, presented by Tim Ruzek of the Cedar River Watershed. You will hear about the creation and eventual demise of the Austin Horace State Park which developed into commercial/residential properties. Free

History Happy Hour: The Archeology of Bones:

What 3,000 year old bones can tell us

5:30-7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 17

Presented by Elena Haymond who has done research on bones from an ancient Bulgarian cemetery. With pictures and stories, Elena will explain how the appearance of a bone can tell cause of death, childhood nutrition, and information about the civilization of the time period. Free for members of the MCHS, Friends of the Library, or the HHH. $5 for non-members.Light snacks and cash bar offered.

Austin Wedding Showcase

12-3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 22.

$4 per person