Greeting visitors to the 11.08 acre site are a number of mature Sugar Maple trees, seven of which are at least 100 years old. The property has many other mature tree specimens including American Holly, Golden Raintree, Redbud, and Black Walnut. What remains of the farm fields has been fallow for a number of years, however, remnants of the peony gardens remain. Additionally, the site provides a haven for numerous bird and wildlife species.

1949 aerial of the property

The east side of the property contains the four remaining outbuildings: a blacksmith shed, early garage, grain crib, and dairy barn. Some fence rows remain, including a few original limestone fence posts. Planning meetings are underway to form active-participation partnerships with other local organizations and agencies interested in re-use of the grounds. From demonstration and community garden spaces, to classes and workshops, the possibilities are numerous. To learn more, check back often, or contact Danielle Bachant-Bell, Farmstead Coordinator, at (812)336-0909 or email her at programs@bloomingtonrestorations.org

The Hinkle–Garton House displays the typical Americanized version of the Queen Anne style of architecture, with painted wood ornament. A lack of symmetry and irregular massing is combined on the exterior with decorative porch posts, brackets and spindles, chamfered shingles, and sunbursts in the gables.

The original portion of the interior consists of a parlor, living room, dining room, and kitchen and bathroom on the first floor. The latter two, although since altered, were both specified in the original plans for the house. Three bedrooms were on the second floor. Latter additions brought an enclosed sunroom on the first floor, and another bedroom and bath on the second floor.

The original portion of the house was completed in 1892, with its additions or slight alterations occurring prior to 1927. No other major alterations have been made to the house since that time.

The above text is adapted from the National Register of Historic Places nomination. To access the full document, go to www.in.gov/dnr/historic/bin/rb_apps/2006/hinkle_garton.pdf.

The property was listed on the State Register of Historic Places in 1990, a move headed up by Daisy herself in order to prevent the proposed widening of Tenth Street from encroaching on the farmstead. With funding assistance from the Bloomington Historic Preservation Commission, BRI has nominated the site to the National Register, expected to be made official any day by the Keeper of the list.

To learn more about State and National Register listing, visit www.in.gov/dnr/historic.