Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory Restoration
A Good Idea
Description
From 1878 to 1972, traditional craftsmen at the Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory constructed wooden saddletrees, the internal framework of a saddle. Saddles played a key role in American transportation history, and the factory was the nation's oldest continually operated family-owned saddletree factory upon its closure. After decades of fundraising, community volunteers helped to reopen the historic building as a living history museum in May 2002.
Restoration efforts were supported by a Transportation Enhancements award.
Restoration efforts were supported by a Transportation Enhancements award.
Goal / Mission
The preservation and restoration of the Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory aims to contribute to the overall economic and cultural development of the community.
Results / Accomplishments
The restoration of the Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory benefits the city of Madison as a reminder of its unique role in transportation history while enhancing the cultural and economic health of the community. The museum brings an estimated $1 million to the local economy annually.
About this Promising Practice
Organization(s)
Historic Madison, Inc.
Primary Contact
John Staicer
Historic Madison, Inc.
500 West Street
Madison, IN 47250
812-265-3426
saddle@seidata.com
http://www.historicmadisoninc.com/
Historic Madison, Inc.
500 West Street
Madison, IN 47250
812-265-3426
saddle@seidata.com
http://www.historicmadisoninc.com/
Topics
Art & Recreation / Libraries & Museums
Community / Civic Engagement
Community / Social Environment
Community / Civic Engagement
Community / Social Environment
Organization(s)
Historic Madison, Inc.
Source
National Transportation Enhancements Clearinghouse
Date of publication
11/1/2002
Date of implementation
5/1/2002
Geographic Type
Rural
Location
Madison, IN
For more details
http://www.historicmadisoninc.com/saddletree_museu...
http://www.enhancements.org/misc/TEGuide2002.pdf
http://www.enhancements.org/misc/TEGuide2002.pdf
Target Audience
Families