Working Men's Institute

The coolest thing was the Alligator on the book shelf

This was by far the best and most suprising experience in New Harmony on a rainy day. Library is downstairs and is equivalent of most small town libraries. Upstairs is the museum and it exceeded any expectation of a small town museum. Odd collections of animal skulls and skeletons, firearms, minerals, crystals, antiques, and an 8 legged calf were in the west gallery. The east side had dozens of Renaissance paintings, a few from the Utopian period of New Harmony, and a modern art display. The building itself is a testament to a time long since past and the only remaining Working Men's Institute and Library out of 160 built.

The childrens shoes... creepy. the glass jars with organisms... creepy. But oddly, we wanted them. Cool place, cool things, we could really see ourselves living here(rentals available?) or just taking the items and placing them in our own home.

I was surprised that the access to the museum is free.. with all the great collections that they have. I recommend going there..

I've loved this place since I was a child, and love it still!nnI encourage anyone visiting the area to visit this fantastic library and museum. It's an absolute treat!