The first thing of interest is that this beautiful 1922 house was a Sears Roebuck catalog per-fabricated kit house (somewhat similar to The Verndale (Model No. 6003); ($900 to $1,130) put together on site. The Schmincks were avid collectors of artifacts telling the history of Lake Co pioneers. In 1936 they opened their basement with over 5000 objects to the public. In the 1960's the rest of the house was preserved as a historic home and museum. The collection includes quilts, housewares, clothes, early recording technology, Indian artifacts and weapons including an early water cooled hand-held machine gun. The house is located at 128 South E Street and next door is the excellent Lake Co Museum with interesting history of the many Irish immigrants who came to the area in the 1800's to raise sheep. Ms Marie Lee, the present Curator, is a very knowledgeable and friendly guide through both museums. read more
