New Harmony, Indiana

Did you know that there is another museum in the United States that used to be a Fauntleroy family home? New Harmony, Indiana is a quaint historical town that was founded in 1814. New Harmony is unique because its founders settled there with a dream of creating a utopian community. These dreamers were known as “Harmonists.” The Harmonists were religious separatists who emigrated from Germany. Their religious doctrine was a plan of perfect Christianity in every way possible way. The Harmonists believed that the second coming of Christ was soon, and in response they created an entirely self-sufficient community of over 180 structures. In 1825 the Harmonists sold their land to two men who had a similar dream of a utopian community. Under the leaderships of Robert Owen and William Maclure, New Harmony became a community that prioritized education and equality. Today, New Harmony is a well-preserved museum and historic site with much to see and do. From 1841-1925 the Fauntleroy family inhabited a house in New Harmony, which in modern times is a museum and wedding venue. In the early 20th century, Mary Emily Fauntleroy, a cousin to the Altavista Fauntleroys became a preservationist at the home. Due to Mary Emily’s work, the Fauntleroy home in New Harmony became the town’s first tour site. Mary Emily even gave the tours herself! Featured below are three artifacts from Avoca’s collection about the old Fauntleroy home. Two are antique commemorative plates of the home, and the third is a book on the subject.