Holly Johnson

Hormel Historic Home

It didn’t take long for George Hormel to snap out of the doldrums about which he had written in the letter dated Dec. 2, 1881, that I shared last week. The following letter, 16 days later, showcased George’s ability to find the value in every experience, good or bad.

“December 18, 1881

Dear Parents,

I just began to realize that I have learned more about hides, the two weeks I have been here, than ever I knew before. I handle about a car load a day most of the time sorting; there are always two or three buyers in the cellar who want one or more car loads of hides, and I learn a great many points from them, and watch their way of doing and handling the hides.  Last week Bond Bros, who used to be in Toledo, were taking up hides all week. They were both there selecting, besides having an extra man to help them. They must have big orders to fill.

Next Sunday I will be in Milwaukee. I am going there with a friend of mine, and expect to have a good time there. It is a place I have never seen before, and as this friend of mine, who is a friend, has been raised and brought up there and whose folks, who are well to do, have a fine house & buggy. I will be able to see a good part of the town.

I wish I could get a situation on the road the beginning of the year. I think I would be able to start in and save so that next Christmas I would have considerable money saved up, so I could spend Christmas & New Years at home & have a good time, as I had calculated to do about a month ago when I was with DuBois. But I am not sorry it* so happened, as I have learned a great deal since I have been in this house, and I think it was all for my own good, as it is knowledge which I am seeking now, which is always worth money, when one has it.

Hoping that you are all well, happy and enjoying yourselves as well as I am & wishing you all a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year.

I remain your son,

G.A. Hormel”

*Here he is referring to the company he worked for in Kansas City being dissolved due to the illegal activities of the owner.

George’s new outlook on his life allowed him to embrace change and challenge and to use it for his own self-improvement.

What’s Happening at the HHH

Tours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Walk in tours to see the decorated Hormel Historic Home

Free for HHH members and children, $5 for non-members

History Happy Hour: What’s Wrong With My Nativity by Helen Holder

5:30 p.m. social, 6 p.m. presentation Monday, Dec. 11

Special music by Sue Radloff. Free for members of the Mower County Historical, Friends of the Library, and the HHH, $5 for non-members.

Hearth & Home: What’s Wrong With My Nativity by Helen Holder

10 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 19

You bring the treat. Join us to learn about the history of the nativity and bring your special holiday treat to share. Free

Pre Vikings vs. Packers Tailgate Event

5-7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 23

Music by the Bissen Family and Friends Band. Tailgate snacks included and cash bar. Free for HHH members, $5 for non-members.