Street Name Changes

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 Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.  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 (4^th Ave. NW/NE), Greenwich (2^nd St. NW/SW), St. Paul (1^st St. NW/SW), Mill (3^rd Ave. NW/NE), and Kenwood (4^th St. NW/SW) are more original and creative, but I understand the need for uniformity.

Our facility, currently at 208 4^th Ave. NW, was once addressed as 208 Water Street.  Our former Carriage House was accessed from Greenwich Street, now 2^nd St. NW.  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 February 4 through February 8.  And 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.