Oldenburg's new history museum to open Saturday

(OLDENBURG, Ind.) – You can take a step back in time when Oldenburg’s newest attraction opens this coming weekend. 

Das Oldenburg Museum features unique historical items that showcase the town’s German heritage. 

A nonprofit board oversees the museum and their mission is to collect, preserve and promote the material culture and history of the town. 

It’s located in Gilbert Munchel’s former antique store which is near the intersection of Main Street and Pearl Street. 

Karen Enneking is the director of the board and recalls how she and her friends have long discussed the possibility of having a historical museum. 

“When this space became available, we felt it was now or never. We’re not getting any younger and things are leaving town so it was a good reason to start it,” Enneking said. 

She added, “Plus, Gilbert was a really good mentor to me when I was in high school so I feel like this serves as a tribute to him.” 

The board members have worked tirelessly to remodel the interior of the building and also collect items that will be on display. 

Some items on display include the original town post office box, historic instruments from the Oldenburg German Band, stained glass windows from the school gym, artifacts from the Sisters of St. Francis, and much more. 

“Back in the day, Oldenburg was the hub of Southeast Indiana when it came to artisans and there was a ton of woolen mills and activity here in town,” Enneking said. 

There are also some items that were manufactured at the Oldenburg Furniture Factory.

“It’s hard to believe but toward the end of the 1800s there was a furniture factory here. It didn’t last too long but they made some really beautiful pieces of furniture,” she added. 

Enneking describes it as an honor to be part of an initiative that brings her hometown’s history to life. 

“I was born and raised in Oldenburg and some of my ancestors were among the first to come here, where they helped build the church and were part of the beginning of this community,” Enneking said. 

Das Oldenburg Museum will open to the public for the first time from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 27. 

Following this weekend, their regular hours will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. 

Here are other board members of the Das Oldenburg Museum:

• Gary Munchel

• Jeff Paul

• Claire Sherman 

• Darrell Breedlove

• Mason Enneking

• Debbie Obermeyer

• Mary Ollier 

• Patty Doll

• Mike Wilhelm 

• David Mannix