Community Calendar

Exhibition of photos of Cuba over the years by 6 photographers. One of whom is Cuban & still lives there.
Several of the photographers will be present.

Exhibition of photos of Cuba over the years by 6 photographers. One of whom is Cuban & still lives there.
Several of the photographers will be present.

Discover the remarkable history behind one of the most acclaimed creative nonfiction novels of the twenty-first century, The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson.

This engaging evening program explores the extraordinary story of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition and the visionaries who transformed Chicago into the legendary “White City.” At the same time, it examines the chilling crimes of H. H. Holmes, whose infamous activities unfolded amid the excitement and optimism surrounding the Fair. Through the intertwined narratives of architect Daniel Burnham and Holmes, guests will gain a deeper understanding of the ambition, innovation, and contradictions that shaped America at the dawn of the modern age.

The program will also feature a special presentation of artifacts currently on exhibit at Barker Mansion that were purchased by members of the Barker family during their visit to the World’s Fair. These fascinating objects offer a tangible connection to one of the most influential cultural events in American history and provide insight into the souvenirs, craftsmanship, and innovations that captivated Fairgoers more than 130 years ago.

Following the presentation guests are able to do a self-guided tour of the mansion.

Additionally, guests will also have the opportunity to sample foods that made their debut at the 1893 World’s Fair, adding another layer to this exploration of one of America’s most celebrated exhibitions.

Whether your interests lie in history, architecture, true crime, Chicago, or Erik Larson’s bestselling book, this unique evening offers a compelling look at the people, places, and events that continue to capture the public imagination more than a century later.

Program Includes:

- Lecture on The Devil in the White City
- Special presentation of Barker family World’s Fair artifacts
- Samples of foods introduced at the 1893 World’s Fair
- Self-Guided tour of Barker Mansion

Please note: Program length may vary slightly depending on guest count and other event factors. All programs begin promptly at the scheduled start time. Guests may arrive up to 15 minutes prior to the program; earlier entry cannot always be accommodated.

Exhibition of photos of Cuba over the years by 6 photographers. One of whom is Cuban & still lives there.
Several of the photographers will be present.

Science Story Time is geared toward listeners toddler through early elementary ages. This program uses children’s picture books to engage as well as support scientific concepts and experiments. Young scientists develop literacy and STEM skills as well as build vocabulary by actively participating in the hands-on program. Activities designed for ages 2-6. All are welcome. Activities vary monthly.

Curiosity Lab is an after-school, free play program for kids ages 6-10 years. Children are invited to explore, experiment, and engage in hands-on sensory activities at their own pace. No instructions, no pressure—just curiosity-driven play. Held in WonderLab (or sometimes outdoors weather permitting), the space is set up for exploration with a variety of rotating materials and stations.

A summer evening. A glass of wine. A historic garden in full bloom.

Sip, savor, and celebrate summer in one of Michigan City’s most beautiful historic settings.

Spend a summer evening surrounded by the beauty of the Jens Jensen Garden at The Barker Mansion. Enjoy a curated tasting of refreshing white wines paired with an elegant charcuterie spread as you relax and mingle in one of Michigan City’s most picturesque settings.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a unique night out, this special Mansion After Hours experience offers the perfect opportunity to sip, savor, and enjoy the garden in its summer splendor. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a self-guided tour of the mansion throughout the evening.

Age Requirement:
Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. A valid ID is required.

Please note: Program length may vary slightly depending on guest count and other event factors. All programs begin promptly at the scheduled start time. Guests may arrive up to 15 minutes prior to the program; earlier entry cannot always be accommodated.

This September, Pictura presents Trace, a new photographic series by longtime Bloomington treasure Osamu James Nakagawa, distinguished Professor of Photography at Indiana University. The project connects Nakagawa’s present day experience as a Japanese-American with past generations. In 2022, he began a 25,000 mile pilgrimage from Bloomington to visit the sites of Japanese-American incarceration camps. Trace combines photographs taken at these sites with photograms of found objects and rubbings of the memorials. 

Using diptychs, Nakagawa pairs the past and the present, flattening the boundaries between them. Trace seeks to reveal what can’t be seen anymore, things that happened eighty years ago and have been quietly buried. Through a direct and immersive process, using actual objects and surfaces from the sites, Nakagawa unearths this history of forced incarceration.

Trace opens at Pictura Gallery on Friday September 4th 5-8pm, and will be on view until October 30th.

Step back in time with History Hour at The Barker Mansion.

Long before European arrival, Indigenous nations maintained extensive trade networks across the Great Lakes and much of Turtle Island. Join Cecil Wilson, Historic Researcher for the Pokagon Band, as he explores the evolution of these trade routes and how they influenced the Fur Trade of the 17th and 18th centuries. Discover how long-standing Indigenous networks laid the foundation for one of the most influential trade systems in the Great Lakes.
Please note: Program length may vary slightly depending on guest count and other event factors. All programs begin promptly at the scheduled start time. Guests may arrive up to 15 minutes prior to the program; earlier entry cannot always be accommodated.

Speaker Bio:
Personal Title: Cecil Wilson Jr; Historic Research Specialist

Biography: Cecil Wilson Jr is an enrolled member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi and belongs to the Turtle Clan. Cecil is currently pursuing a degree in US History through Indiana University. He has been taught the histories of the Pokagon Band through connections to his community and the knowledge keepers who came before him. His work is focused through the National Historic Preservation Act, where he works to safeguard the cultural and historical heritage of the Potawatomi people.

Join us for an unforgettable evening of bourbon, history, and exceptional flavors at Barker Mansion.

Spend the evening in the grandeur of the Mansion’s Third Floor Ballroom as you enjoy a specially curated bourbon tasting featuring a selection of distinctive bourbons chosen to highlight a variety of flavors and styles. Each tasting will be paired with an assortment of small bites prepared by McGowan & Sons, with bourbon serving as a featured ingredient in each culinary creation.

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or simply looking for a unique night out, this special Mansion After Hours experience offers the perfect opportunity to sip, savor, and socialize in one of Michigan City’s most beautiful historic settings.
Guests are also invited to enjoy a self-guided tour of Barker Mansion throughout the evening, and weather permitting, may stroll through the historic Jens Jensen Garden.

Age Requirement:
Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. A valid ID is required.

Please note: Program length may vary slightly depending on guest count and other event factors. All programs begin promptly at the scheduled start time. Guests may arrive up to 15 minutes prior to the program; earlier entry cannot always be accommodated.