THINGS TO DO

Thrall’s Opera House has served a variety of purposes throughout its lifetime, starting as a dormitory in 1824 and eventually becoming a warehouse, multi-family dwelling, a dance hall and more. The structure was transformed into an opera house in 1888, serving as home to the Golden Troupe—which included “singing comedienne” Frances Golden, who entertained troops during WWI. Explore the restored theater and learn all about the Golden Troupe for yourself during a visit!

Robert Owen purchased the town of Harmony, which later became known as New Harmony, in 1825. Owen purchased the 20,000 acres from George Rapp with plans to establish a model community where education and social equality would flourish, but Owen’s “Community of Equality” dissolved by 1827. Still, Owen’s Utopian dream brought many contributions to American scientific and educational theory, study and practice that continue to affect Indiana even today.

Planted in concentric circles of manicured privet hedge, this reconstructed Harmonist labyrinth evokes the serenity and peacefulness the Utopians were seeking. Large shade trees bordering one end of the lot provide a perfect canopy for garden parties and weddings, with the labyrinth gracing the background.

The New Harmony Advertiser (1858-1861) and The New Harmony Register (1867-1932) were both printed on equipment that’s still on display on the third floor of Community House No. 2. Father and son, Charles and Harry “Nick” Slater ran the Slater Print Shop using a six column, two page Washington Press. It is said to be assembled from two smaller presses used to print the Western Atlas and the Gleaner for many years before the Slaters used it.

We can all play a role in protecting and supporting Indiana’s pollinators. Bee Welcoming to Indiana’s Pollinators is a conservation and preservation effort made possible by our partners at Corteva Agriscience. The program focuses on cultivating the landscapes and gardens at each of our 12 locations across the state to support native plants and maintain diverse habitats to attract and support pollinators. When you visit, you’ll learn about the importance of protecting bees, birds and butterflies and how all Hoosiers can play a role in habitat conservation and restoration, which creates a welcoming space for these important pollinators. We can help these winged wonders by simply removing invasive species, planting pollinator-friendly plants and placing bee boxes. We hope you visit and see the important role you play and enjoy the vibrant gardens courtesy of Indiana’s pollinators.