This column may be more about the present than the past, but I want to tell you about a few goals that have recently been achieved at the Hormel Historic Home. They are based on sharing our past with new audiences and returning to our historical appearance.

All these accomplishments stem from a desire to remain historically relevant, to share our architectural beauty in print, and to encourage younger generations to engage with the past. Many people helped these goals become reality.

Goal No. 1: Restore the Historic Home kitchen to its early 1900s décor.

In 2014, Gary and Pat Ray made a generous donation that allowed us to begin the process of completing the home’s restoration by returning the kitchen to its early glory. Many craftsmen assisted in creating a beautiful new (old) space.

It started within the walls as Fox Electric replaced old wiring with new wiring and MJ O’Connor removed old plumbing and prepared to install a new (old) sink. Jerome Wilker then repaired the plaster walls and Danny Muzik smoothed ceilings and painted surfaces with a fresh color. Local tile expert, John Vogel, and Daltile were able to match the original tile floor pattern which dated back to 1912 or earlier. Steve Greenman made thresholds that completed the flooring project. Sean Selmecki custom created the wood cabinets that closely resemble the design specs as listed in documents from 1913. Sandie Chapin made cushions that brought color and comfort to the Dining Nook in the kitchen. We sourced the sink, light fixtures, ice box and stove from various sources and now the project is complete!

Goal No. 2: Create a keepsake booklet to showcase the beautiful architectural features of the home.

With the artistic eye of area photographers Whitnei Abel, Mary Landherr, John Duren and Nate Howard, the unique features of the home’s interior have been captured and then put together in a booklet printed by Smyth Printing. The fine details of the home may be overlooked when one is visiting so presenting them in print allows guests to appreciate the architecture anytime they wish. These books are now available for purchase at the Hormel Historic Home.

Goal No. 3: Develop programming specifically for children.

Thanks to the vision of several family minded volunteers we now have attractions throughout the Home that are intended to educate our youngest visitors. With popular books, games and music from the early 1900’s we now offer places for kids and adults to engage with together while touring the Home. Children can appreciate nature from the Atrium, pretend to bake and set a proper table in the Kitchen and Dining Nook and experience the life of a maid in the Servant’s Room. By exposing young people to age appropriate history, we hope to instill a life-long appreciation of things from the past. The financial support of the Austin Area Foundation and research assistance from the Mower County Historical Society helped make History for Half Pints possible.

Our community recently celebrated the achievement of a goal set by George Hormel 125 years ago — to be a pork packer. What started as a pretty specific goal has become a thriving company that supports many and is strongly connected to the past. Our goals have taken over two years to complete but I feel that their impact will have a lasting effect on all who visit.

 Teddy Bear Tour and Picnic

9 a.m. and 9:45 a.m., Aug. 17

Following a tour designed specifically for those aged 2-10, crafts, snacks and songs will be offered in the Peace Garden. Please pre-register at 507-433-4243

Cost is $4 for HHH members (up to 3 people) and $6 for nonmember (up to 3 people). Additional guests are $1 per person.

 Peace Garden Concert: Sena Ehrhardt and Cole Allen Acoustic Duo

6:30 p.m., Aug. 23

Austin native musician, Sena Ehrhardt, and guitarist, Cole Allen, will entertain with their soulful and bluesy sound. Don’t miss this area favorite. Free