Explore the history of Elkhart, Indiana through two iconic house museums.
Special Announcements
The Ruthmere Museum Campus will be closed for tours December 24th, 25th, and 26th for the holiday.
Featured Events
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Experience MattersWelcome to RuthmereRuthmere Campus comprises two historic properties that engage visitors with a unique experience of history, art and architecture. Whether you are taking a guided tour of Ruthmere Mansion or the historic Havilah Beardsley House, listening to a concert, participating in an educational program, or celebrating your nuptials with an unforgettable garden wedding, the experiences at Ruthmere are one of a kind and make a difference. |
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HistoryHistory is the heart of Ruthmere. Elkhart is here for a reason, and the history of the Beardsley family reveals the answer. Through archaeology and research relive the era of Elkhart's founding at the Havilah Beardsley House, or immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of the historic mansion and gardens at Ruthmere. |
| ArchitectureThe built environment defines our cultural values and provides a sense of community identity. Explore the architecture of the community in an easy, interactive way with the TourElkhart Mobile Tour, or study art, architecture and gardens in depth at the Robert B. Beardsley Arts Reference Library. Nowhere is the importance of the built environment easier to discover than at Ruthmere. |
| ArtArt comes in many forms at Ruthmere. Part historic house museum, part world class art collection, part performing arts venue--such is the unique nature of Ruthmere. Explore the timeless questions "what is art and why is it important?" through cutting edge public programs, or simply immerse yourself with an awe-inspiring sensory experience. |
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Visiting Ruthmere CampusRuthmere Campus overlooks the confluence of the St. Joseph and Elkhart Rivers, residing at the heart of the Beardsley Historic District Neighborhood, a nationally recognized site on the National Register of Historic Places. Ruthmere Address: Havilah Beardsley House Address: See the VISIT AND SHOP tab for more information. |
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UPDATED VISITOR GUIDELINES 8-31-2021
In accordance with CDC recommendations, effective immediately, face masks are encouraged for indoor gatherings for both vaccinated and unvaccinated visitors. Prior to beginning every tour, Ruthmere staff and/or volunteers will ask visitors their personal preference regarding their desire for docents to wear a mask or go without, and will respond accordingly. Unvaccinated staff and docent volunteers, are required to wear an N95 mask when engaged in verbal communication at Ruthmere Campus sites. Proof of vaccination for Ruthmere staff and volunteers is kept confidentially on file.
Visitor Guidelines for Ruthmere Campus
Group tour size is a maximum of 8 visitors per group, plus the docent tour guide during normal hours of operation. This is 80% normal capacity.Advanced booked tour groups of 8 or more will resume starting July 6, 2021.
Tours on normal days of operation will begin at the top of the hour.
Ruthmere staff reserve the right to issue a "tour rain check" for any visitor exhibiting obvious signs of illness such as coughing, sneezing, etc. This decision rests at the discretion of the Ruthmere staff.
Advanced tour reservations are still encouraged, otherwise open tour slots are filled on a first come, first served basis. You must arrive at least 10 minutes before your tour time to keep your tour reservation in force.