Visit the Mansion
Built in 1857, The Barker Mansion is a monument to Gilded Age architecture and commemorates the Barker family’s influence in shaping the railway landscape of the American Midwest. Explore its 38 rooms and beautiful gardens. Experience Michigan City history.
Featured Events
Connect with history and experience the Gilded Age at one of our upcoming featured events. The Barker Mansion also offers general admission and guided tours.
Parent & Me at The Barker Cottage
Come join us for a special FREE Parent & Me event at The Barker Cottage! It’s the perfect opportunity for
Friendship Bracelet Bash at The Barker Cottage
Kids, get ready for a blast of creativity and fun! Join us to make gorgeous friendship bracelets, meet new pals,
Homeschool History Hangout at The Barker Cottage
Homeschool History Hangout is designed for homeschool children to explore fascinating historical topics, make new friends, and enjoy a fun
Agatha Christie & Whiskey at The Barker Cottage
Join us at The Barker Cottage where mystery, intrigue, and a touch of liquid courage await! Engage in lively
See More Events
The Barker Mansion is open six days weekly. With events for adults, children, families, and history enthusiasts, there’s something for everyone. Guided tours are available to individuals and groups, or choose general admission for a self-guided tour of the mansion and gardens.
Featured Exhibit
The Barker Mansion’s permanent exhibit.
Join us at the revolutionary Haskell & Barker factory as we embark on the journey of a boxcar and explore the city where it all started.
We illuminate the present by bringing the past to life
Built in 1857 by John Barker and remodeled in the early 1900s, The Barker Mansion stands as a testament to the success and innovation of the Barker family and a prime example of luxury in the Gilded Age. Through their industrial enterprises, the Barker family helped define the Midwest as a center of trade and commerce. Their home set the tone for opulence and culture during the Gilded Age by honoring the grace and beauty of the past while calling upon the brilliance of progressive architecture and design. The Barker Mansion opened as Museum and Civic Center in 1970 and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.
Today, The Barker Mansion serves to interpret the history of the Barker legacy and its context within Michigan City, Indiana. We accomplish this through interpretive tours, exhibits, lectures, education, and other public programs. The Mansion is also available for wedding and event rentals.
The Barker Mansion’s architecture, collections, and social history create a living museum for both the scholar and casual visitors. The Mansion operates as a non-profit institution for schools, civic and cultural groups, and the public at large.
Portrait of Catherine Barker Hickox
Book Your Special Event Today
From weddings and baby showers to birthdays and anniversaries; plan your event with the historic Barker Mansion as the backdrop.
Plan A Visit
Our History
Over the years, The Barker Mansion has witnessed pivotal moments in American history and served as a social hub during the Gilded Age. Our historical timeline is woven with stories of resilience, innovation, and community. We invite you to take a step back in time and experience the legacy of the Barker Family…
Event Rentals
The Barker Mansion and grounds offer a beautiful historic background for any event. Our outdoor formal gardens and sophisticated indoor spaces are perfectly equipped to accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale events…
Visit The Mansion
The historic Barker Mansion lives as a monument of industry, charity, and turn-of-the-century life in Michigan City, highlighting the legacy of the Barker family through community events…
Learn More
Open for The Holidays
Future Events
Philanthropy & Construction Update
Our Latest Reviews
Wow, I was absolutely blown away by the stunning beauty of this place! As a huge fan of the Gilded Age, I was thrilled when my husband and I decided to stop by and explore the Mansion. We’re from Atlanta, and I had never heard of the Baker family before this visit, so it was a delightful surprise. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by Craig, who was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable. He answered all of our questions with enthusiasm and made us feel right at home. In the basement, Jack took over, and his passion for the exhibit was palpable. He pointed out hidden gems and offered insights that we might have otherwise missed, showcasing his genuine interest in his role. Upstairs, although I didn’t catch her name, the young lady was equally impressive. She guided us through with ease and answered our queries with a smile. Every member of the staff contributed to an exceptional experience, and we were thoroughly impressed by their dedication. The Mansion itself was a treasure trove of beauty and history, with every corner offering a new photo opportunity. We loved our self-guided tour and can’t wait to return during the Christmas season to see the holiday decorations. If you’re passionate about historical places and rich history, this is definitely an A+ destination. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone in the area!
We were so glad to have went to a tour and after we were done the nice lady and her son gave us so much more details on the home and the family they were incredible.
The employees were very helpful and knowledgeable. The whole family enjoyed the experience. They even gave us recommendations on the area attractions.
A lot of history shared. Antique furniture. Nicely displayed. Beautiful garden! Great venue for wedding.
After undergoing extensive renovations, Barker Mansion has reopened its doors, and I recently had the pleasure of visiting during Michigan City's Uptown First Fridays event. This event provided free admission for Michigan City residents, making it an excellent opportunity to explore this historic gem. Barker Mansion is a stunning example of Gilded Age elegance and architecture. As you walk through the mansion, you are transported back in time, thanks to the meticulous preservation of original furnishings and fixtures. Each room tells a story, reflecting the luxurious lifestyle of its former inhabitants and offering a tangible connection to the past. One of the highlights of my visit was the basement exhibit, which focuses on the Haskell-Barker Car Company. This display provides insightful historical context about the family's business and its impact on the region, adding depth to the overall experience of the mansion. The restoration efforts are evident throughout the mansion, with each area carefully returned to its original state, as it would have appeared when the Barker family resided there. This attention to detail in the restoration allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the historical ambiance of the mansion. Furthermore, the staff at Barker Mansion deserves special mention. They were incredibly insightful and friendly, readily available to answer any questions we had. Their deep knowledge and enthusiasm for the mansion's history significantly enhanced our visit, making the experience not only educational but also genuinely engaging. Additionally, the property features a beautifully maintained walled garden complex. This serene setting hosts tea-time events, which I find to be a charming way to engage with the property while enjoying a bit of leisure and luxury in a picturesque environment. I highly recommend a visit to Barker Mansion for anyone interested in the history of Michigan City or those simply seeking to experience the splendor of a bygone era. Whether you're a local resident or a traveler, the mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulent Gilded Age and the rich history of the Barker family. The knowledgeable staff, captivating exhibits, and beautiful grounds make it a must-visit destination.
The amazing restoration work that was done is impeccable. Recommend to anyone who likes this type of detail and workmanship.
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