Mark your calendars for an unforgettable journey through Indiana's rich history and vibrant local flavors at the Noble County Ramble: Historic Sites & Local Bites, happening Saturday, August 24. This self-guided tour, presented by Indiana Landmarks, will spotlight a series of beautifully restored historic sites across Noble and southern LaGrange Counties, celebrating the preservation efforts that have saved these treasures from the brink of extinction.
Event Details
Host:Â Indiana Landmarks
Sponsor:Â Visit Noble County
Date:Â Saturday, August 24
Check-in Location:Â Newman & Newman Law Offices, 107 W. Jefferson St., Albion
Check-in Hours:Â 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tour Duration:Â Approximately 2 hours to visit all six sites
Tickets: $35 per person for the general public, and $30 for Indiana Landmarks members. Purchase in advance by August 23 at NobleCountyRamble24.eventbrite.com or by calling 317-639-4534 or 800-450-4534.
Accessibility:Â Note that not all sites are fully accessible due to stairs.
Indulge Your Taste Buds
As you journey from site to site, enjoy complimentary bites and beverages from some of the region's finest establishments. Sample sweet and savory delights from Albion’s Fox Den Catering, Ligonier’s Grounded Coffee House, Kendallville’s Whatchamacakes, Rome Cities, Sylvan Cellars, plus Miller’s Grocery of Rome City and LaGrange, and other locals bites!!
What’s in Store?
Plan before you arrive with the Noble County Ramble 2024 Program to help you plan each charming stop on this engaging ramble through Noble County. From charming opera houses to repurposed barns, the Noble County Ramble promises an array of fascinating stops.
SITE 1
Howard’s Opera House, Albion: Begin your adventure at the Howard’s Opera House, a grand structure dating back to 1884. Originally featuring commercial space on the ground floor and a large public hall upstairs, this site has been lovingly restored by a collaboration between Indiana Landmarks, the Albion S.T.A.R. Team, and the Courthouse Square Preservation Society. Today, it is the home of Newman & Newman Law Offices, with its historic charm preserved for all to see.
SITE 2
Sower House, Rome City: Next, head to the Sower House, located on the west edge of the Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site. Saved from demolition and revitalized through a partnership with Indiana Landmarks and the Noble County Convention and Visitors Bureau, this 1880s gem now boasts all its original woodwork and pocket doors. Soon to open as a General Store and offer Indiana-made goods, snacks, and bike rentals for visitors exploring the nearby trails.
SITE 3
Cabin at Wildflower Woods at the Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site, Rome City: Explore the serene Wildflower Woods, designed by the renowned author and conservationist Gene Stratton-Porter. Completed in 1914, this picturesque cabin on Sylvan Lake showcases Stratton-Porter’s legacy and offers a glimpse into her world of nature and literature.
SITE 4
Sylvan Cellars, Rome City: Once a dairy barn for the Kneipp Springs Sanitarium, Sylvan Cellars was transformed into a charming event center and tasting room in 2015. The barn, which was listed on Indiana Landmarks’ 10 Most Endangered list in 2011, now stands as a testament to the power of preservation and adaptive reuse.
SITE 5
Evers Plainview Farms, Wolcottville: Visit Evers Plainview Farms, a historic farmstead honored with the 2023 John Arnold Award for Rural Preservation. Owned and operated by multiple generations of the Evers family, this working farm highlights the importance of maintaining rural heritage and traditions.
Then, Drive just over the border into LaGrange County
SITE 6
Wolcott House, Wolcottville: Conclude your tour at the Wolcott House, built by George Wolcott in 1840. This lovingly restored home, now operated as a bed-and-breakfast by Dan and Ann Kragt, offers a glimpse into the early days of the Wolcottville community.
September Update: Noble County Ramble Great Success!
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in the Noble County Ramble. Over 150 tickets were sold. Your presence turned the event into a truly memorable experience. It was fantastic to see so many of you enjoying the scenic beauty and historical landmarks of Noble County while indulging in delicious offerings from local favorites such as The Fox Den, Sylvan Cellars, Grounded Coffee House, Whatchamacakes Bakery, and Rise'n Roll Bakery.
Your enthusiastic feedback and engagement have been incredibly encouraging. We are thrilled with the positive response and are already looking forward to future events. Although Indiana Landmarks may not be hosting this event again, the local community’s support and interest open exciting possibilities for future gatherings.
Thank you once again for making the Noble County Ramble a wonderful success. We hope to see you again soon for more adventures and local discoveries!
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