The Swiss Community Historical Society is pleased to announce that scheduled tours will resume from May through fall of 2022. The Swiss Homestead, also known as the Schumacher House, offers a glimpse into the lives of Swiss immigrants in portions of Allen and Putnam counties known as the Settlement, during the mid-19th century. The house is located at 8350 Bixel Rd, Bluffton.

Visitors may tour the house, summer kitchen, and workshop—which are furnished with original and period items—as well as the kitchen garden. Access to the barn may be restricted due to construction activity.

“Even with Covid-19 concerns in 2021, we were able to host many individuals, families, and reunion groups who connected with the Homestead on a variety of levels. We look forward to increasing those numbers, and would love to host school groups again as well,” reports Susie Gratz, Interpretation Committee Chair and Board member.

In addition to the scheduled tours, the Society plans to hold special Saturday afternoon open houses on June 4, July 2, and August 6. On these days visitors may participate in a hands-on activities such as playing Settlement-era games, writing with steel-nib pens, and drying herbs. More details will be publicized prior to each open house.

Those interested in scheduling a tour should contact Susie Gratz through email, gratzds@roadrunner.com, or by phone 419-358-4822; please leave a message.