Commendation for the President Benjamin Harrison Home

One of the goals of the Hoosier Chapter of the Victorian Society in America is to help bring national attention to the best of Victorian Indiana. To that end, the new Hoosier chapter got quickly to work, nominating the President Benjamin Harrison Home for the national Victorian Society in America preservation award. Awards are granted on an annual basis for projects of outstanding merit in the preservation or conservation of Victorian material culture.

In May, The Victorian Society in America voted to honor the President Benjamin Harrison Home with a commendation for completion of a series of restoration projects to enhance and preserve this 1875 National Historic Landmark. The Society’s Preservation Committee was impressed by the meticulous care and professionalism of the restoration work, including: the reconstruction of the carriage house, the improvement of visitor amenities—including handicapped accessibility, landscaping of the grounds, and restoration of interior decorations.

PBHH President & CEO, Phyllis Geeslin accepting the VSA National Commendation award from Hoosier VSA President, Tiffany Benedict Berkson

"We are all very proud and excited to receive this commendation from an organization that sets the standards! Our sincere appreciation to Tiffany Benedict Berkson, Vanessa Burkhart, and Marsh Davis for their supportive words and admirable advocacy!" --statement issued from the President Benjamin Harrison Home

The Hoosier Chapter's first nomination, and first success! Congratulations to the President Benjamin Harrison Home for their meticulous work and dedication. This museum is a long-held favorite place to visit in Indianapolis.

For full information on criteria for nominations, check in on the website for The Victorian Society in America.

Our only regret is that the magnificent work completed at West Baden Springs Hotel, which would have undoubtedly been a shoo-in for an the award.