Dozen Distinctive Destinations
New Harmony, IN
Year Listed: 2003
The Roofless Church in New Harmony, Indiana.
Credit: Judy O?Bannon
Ever since the town was founded in 1814 by German religious refugees, residents of New Harmony have marched to the beat of a different drum. The entire town was bought in 1824 by a British social theorist, whose efforts to establish America's first utopian community attracted world-renowned scientists and educators to the little settlement in southwestern Indiana.
Today, a walk down New Harmony's perfectly plotted streets leads visitors to labyrinths, perfectly preserved historic structures, unmarked graveyards and a special church that has no roof or denomination -- all reminders of the 19th-century dream of creating a perfect society through free education and the abolition of social classes. Attractions include a Harmonist dormitory, an 1856 theater that still offers live performances, and several houses that reflect the traditional flurkechenhaus, one of the typical residential types brought to America by early German settlers. The Scholle House, originally the home of a shoemaker, offers art and history exhibits. In addition to many exciting festivals, the town provides year-round attractions especially suited for children. Steeped in a long tradition of intellectual curiosity, creativity and innovation, New Harmony is the perfect place for reflection, inspiration - and family fun.
