Last weekend, my wife and I honeymooned in the tiny town of New Harmony, Indiana. The town has a history that is unique to this state, and much of that history has been preserved to this day. Downtown is fairly typical as far as historic retail architecture goes; however, the businesses and buildings are in much better shape due to the infusion of tourist dollars. In nearly every direction from the main intersection, there is a cluster of 2-story wooden or brick houses that date back almost 200 years. The tour that we took was informative, and we toured a “singles dormitory”, where the guide mentioned how much work the Harmonists put in to details such as brick work and insulation.
The edge of town also features something somewhat unique: an actual edge of town. Sprawl is non-existent. A newer movie theater has been placed downtown on Main Street. Unlike many historic villages in America, people still live in New Harmony, and they have shown much care and pride for their town. I recommend a visit to New Harmony if you ever get the chance.
Congratulations on your marriage!
Nice pick! I agree, very special place like no other in Indiana. We were the first couple to get married in the newly renovated Granary in 2000. Evansville Philharmonic events there are a real treat. The Athenium just won the AIA 25-year Award for Richard Meier. Pretty amazing collection of history and architecture for such a tiny town.
Thanks.
That Meier building is pretty neat. I didn’t like it on my first viewing 8 years ago, but I think it’s grown on me.
Sorry to be off-topic, but could you contact me about a story I’m working on about Indianapolis blogs. And just to be clear, this IS NOT spam. Contact me at nuestro@yahoo.com by the end of the day tomorrow (Monday) if possible.
Thanks!
Matthew
I am going to be in New Harmony on Monday to take a look around. Have wanted to visit for many years and am finally getting around to it.
Where should I eat lunch? The White House? The Yellow Tavern? The Red Geranium?
Any advice would be appreciated.
The White House and Red Geranium are both excellent. I think we preferred the White House because of its more rustic atmosphere, but I believe that the food at the Red Geranium is great.
Yellow Tavern has a neat atmosphere. The pizza at Marconi’s on Main Street is good too.