Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
PIERCETON - Experience the charm and history of downtown Pierceton during a guided walking tour at the Heirloom Tomato Festival this Saturday at 11 a.m.
Discover the town's history dating back to the 1850s and hear colorful tales about what makes the berg unique. Tourgoers will view well-preserved Italianate buildings from the late 1800s, hear about the 1895 fire that destroyed half of the commercial district, and discover why tomatoes and antiques are so integral to Pierceton's legacy, according to a provided news release.
This approximately one-hour tour, led by historian Joan Hostetler of The Indiana Album (www.indianaalbum.com), departs from the information booth on the west side of The Old Train Depot. A suggested $10 donation helps the Whitko Community Digital Image Project scan and share historical photos and documents at https://indianamemory.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/p15078coll28. The tour is limited to the first 25 registrants, so register by emailing info@indianaalbum.com in advance to reserve a spot. Pay on the day of the tour.
Local History Scan-a-Thon - Hostetler, a Pierceton native who is documenting the history of the Whitko community as well as copying images from throughout the state for the Indiana Album, will be available before and after the tour to discuss the town's history in the Pierceton's Historic Train Depot. Come share your stories and bring along local history photos and documents from any era of houses, farms, businesses, buildings, street scenes, churches, events, school photos, clubs or interesting people. Volunteers will scan and return your items at the event. We also welcome Indiana-related items from throughout the state. You may also contact info@indianaalbum.com to arrange a private scanning appointment. Learn more at www.indianaalbum.com.
Come early to enjoy other activities at the Heirloom Tomato Festival, held in Brower Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., including live music, speakers, craft vendors, and tomato-related displays and foods that hearken back to the days of Reid-Murdoch Co., Pierceton's "tomato factory." Stay late to enjoy the many antique and gift shops in the town's commercial district.
