We have been viewing a few historic houses lately, most recently touring the Jesse H. Settlemier house in Woodburn.
Settlemier was Woodburn's founder, and the Victorian home was built in 1891, with the family taking residence in early 1892.
It was purchased by the French Prairie Historical Society in 1972, eighty years later.
I believe it has more bathrooms than any of the other houses we have seen.
(There is also one for visitor use downstairs.)
While private tours can be booked and there are some event options, the house is only open for self-guided tours on the first Sunday of each month, from 1 to 4 PM.
(For those interested in rentals, there is almost three acres and a gazebo on the grounds.)
The limited touring schedule may allow some things to be done a little differently, like the offering of refreshments.
It was also decked out seasonally, with old-fashioned Valentine cards and red ribbons everywhere.
There was a lot to see, including a wonderful sampling of clothing.
The displays were good, and there was clearly a wealth of more that could be displayed.
While the tour was self-guided, society members were happy to offer information.
There was plenty to see, and the $5 admission is very reasonable, especially considering that there are snacks.
COVID: It is obviously indoors and best to mask. Social distancing is pretty possible.
Accessibility: There are steps to enter and stairs to the second floor. An elderly visitor was a little nervous on the stairs and then needed to rest. Similar situations are common with older homes, but sometimes a ramp has been added so even in a wheelchair you can still see the first floor. I did not see anything like that.
This is an interesting and affordable tour, and not too long a trip from either the Metro or the Salem areas.
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