A day in the life of the Hormel Historic Home … today, Tuesday, started with a bat. Like most “old” houses the HHH has historically had to deal with the occasional batty visitor. Apparently a clever bat found a way into our atrium overnight and was content to rest on the wall. A brave Luke was able to relocate our winged visitor without incident. The ironic part is I had just told a tour group on Monday we hadn’t had a bat inside in several years. Hmmmm … maybe I jinxed us.

On Monday we completed the summer concert series with a performance by Speaking In Tongues. The group conducted a workshop geared for youth in the afternoon. They introduced instruments from around the world including the Chinese Pipa and tabla drums. They had the kids memorizing rhythmic sounds using clapping, snapping, and chest thumping.

Lead by Austin native, Marc Anderson, the multi-cultural group performed in the garden in the evening. What started as a concert under a beautifully blue sky ended with a dramatic finale complete with exotic sounds and an impressive lightening exhibition. All four of our 2014 concerts were shrouded with the threat of disagreeable weather, but about 300 people were able to enjoy great free musical entertainment in our garden this summer.

We also completed our summer Social Concerns programming this week. In June, we featured a songwriting and storytelling workshop with Charlie Maguire. In July, we offered a guided tour of the Peace Garden. We finished the series with a discussion of Art and a Community presented by local illustrator/artist Bruce Loeschen.

This is also prime time for tours of the HHH.  Both organized groups and walk-in tours have passed through our very large entryway in the last several weeks. From antique car collectors, to day trippers from the Cities, to cross country travelers looking for a rest, we welcome people from all over.  In the past few days, we have seen folks from Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Minnesota, and Washington.

In any given day, week, or month, a lot goes on at the Hormel Historic Home.  Planning is underway for an active fall complete with an author visit, a new program called History Happy Hour, the third annual Bartender Competition, the 27th annual Holiday Open House, a Dickens Dinner Theater, and much more. Stay tuned.

Social Concerns presented by Sara Gilberg of the On Track Lab

Sept. 16, 2014

As the Work Based Learning Coordinator for the Austin Public Schools, Sara’s directs the exploration and assessment lab, which functions as a simulated job experience for youth with special needs. She will describe the curriculum and objectives of the program. Come learn how these young people are being prepared for their futures.

Free program. Please call to let us know you are coming. 507-433-4243