Happy New Year!

As we look ahead to 2018 I thought I would take a moment to reflect on 2017 in countdown style.

10. Free concert events: The weather didn’t always permit us to enjoy the music in the Peace Garden, but it still sounded great in the Carriage Hall Event Center. There was music for everyone in 2017 including Celtic, polka, folk and kid-centric.

9. History Happy Hour programs: Presenters covered topics like antique books, WWI, the railroad and nativity scenes. 300 guests enjoyed socializing with refreshments and learning about a part of our history.

8. Years of autism programming: The HHH is proud to be a leader in offering services to young people on the autism spectrum. The addition of Mary Barinka to our team as the Community Autism Resource Specialist will help our community in becoming more knowledgeable and more accepting and inclusive of those with ASD.

7. Tour guides: The HHH welcomed over 30 bus groups in 2017. Some enjoyed scones, a meal or a concert and all were led on a journey though the legacy of the Hormel family. Our passionate and knowledgeable guides point out the unique architecture and share stories of how the Hormels treasured their home and their community.

6. History for Half Pints events: By making history accessible and fun for the youngest generations, we are hoping to build an audience that embraces the past at an earlier age. Activities like Music in Motion, Shaping History for Kids, and Family Fun Days help youngsters engage with history in a tangible and meaningful way.

5. Harris Music Contest events: The addition of musicians on instruments other than the piano made the 5th Harris Music Contest extra special in 2017. Area music teachers asked if we would open the contest to all types of musicians and we said yes. The purpose of our music programming is to encourage the pursuit of music by young people.

4. Joint fundraisers to support local organizations: Following the example of George and Lillian Hormel, The HHH was pleased to be part of several efforts to raise money for other area organizations. In 2017 we partnered with groups that supported Paint the Town Pink, the Red Cross, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, and Arc.

3. New exhibits: The exhibit in Jay C. Hormel’s bedroom now includes his WWI army jacket and photographs that tell his story more thoroughly. Visitors to the Carriage Hall Event Center now have the opportunity to learn more of the Hormel family history as they examine the new panels in place there. Our display of The Open Road, The Autobiography of George A. Hormel allows us to share the inspiring words of the man who gave so much to Austin. His life story is now available in both hard and soft cover.

2 Summer interns: The HHH was fortunate to host two students as interns last summer, one from high school and one from college. They offered a fresh perspective, a spirit of positivity, and a willingness to embrace our history. We hope they gained as much from their experience here as we did by having them on our team.

1. Fantastic community that supports it’s historic heritage: THANK YOU!

History Happy Hour: The Southern Minny League

5:30 p.m. social,

6 p.m. presentation, Monday, Jan. 8

Presented by Paul Spyhalski. In 1937, Austin focused its town baseball efforts on the Southern Minny League, winning the league and state championship that year.  From 1937 to 1942, the League would continue to develop into the town ball powerhouse of Minnesota. Free for HHH members, $5 for non-members. Includes light snacks.

Hearth & Home Series: Making Lobster Bisque with Jack Erwin.

10 a.m., Tuesday, Jan.16

Free event.

Wedding and Event Showcase

Noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 21

Plan your wedding or special event from start to finish. Visit with vendors such as DJ’s, photographers, caterers, and more. Prize drawings and complimentary champagne upon entry. $5 per person, free for HHH members.