I heard from someone recently that there are people in Austin who do not realize the Hormel Historic Home is open for walk-in tours.  So I wanted to let everyone know that, indeed, we are open from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is only $3 and everyone is invited and welcome to come tour the 2,500 square foot historic home and the 9,000 square foot banquet facility at the corner of Water and Greenwich Streets.

Where, you ask? Until sometime in 1957 or 1958 the streets of Austin were known by other names, according to City Engineer, Jon Erichson.  One speculation as to the change in street names is simplicity for the fire and police departments.  A numbered system makes it easier for emergency personnel to get to the right place faster.  Personally, I think the names of Water (Fourth Avenue Northwest/Northeast), Greenwich (Second Street Northwest/Southwest), St. Paul (First Street Northwest/Southwest), Mill (Third Avenue Northwest/Northeast), and Kenwood (Fourth Street Northwest/Southwest) are more original and creative, but I understand the need for uniformity.

Our facility, currently at 208 Fourth Avenue Northwest, was once addressed as 208 Water Street. Our former Carriage House was accessed from Greenwich Street, now Second Street Northwest.

I invite you to visit the big yellow home to view the German influenced wood work, the stained glass windows, the 1914 Mason Hamlin piano and the early 1900’s environment left by the Hormel Family. You can also walk through the 2009 expansion if you have not had a chance to do that before.  Our walls are filled with historical information and pictures so bring your reading glasses.

In honor of the Paint the Town Pink events to benefit the Hormel Institute we are offering free walk-in tours from Monday through Feb. 8.  We will donate $3 for each person who comes in to the fundraising efforts. So check your calendar and find some time to come explore this local historical treasure.

 Valentine’s Day

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at 5:30 p.m. with a Gourmet dinner by Hy-Vee catering and Dueling Pianos by the River Rats from Minneapolis. Tickets are limited so call 433-4243 today.  Cost is $50 per person.

 February Social Concerns-WPA Projects presented by Dustin Heckman

WPA Projects-President Franklin Roosevelt sought ways to bring the United States out of the Great Depression.  The programs of the New Deal became the focal point of his administration.  Join us Feb. 19 to learn about how these programs were implemented and improved life here in Mower County.  Afterwards, stop by the Austin Public Library and view the traveling exhibit, Uncle Sam’s New Deal.

 Second annual Foodie Throwdown-Taste of America

This fundraiser for the HHH will feature six competing chefs and will showcase samples from all parts of our wildly diverse nation. The event will take place at 6p.m. on Saturday, March 9. Come try the food and vote for your favorite area Chef. Tickets are $30. Call 507-433-4243 to order yours today.