BEDFORD—This month’s Park Program will include a historical walk to learn about one of Bedford’s oldest sections of town. Marla Jones and Teena Ligman will lead the walk through the Zahn Historic District, located just south of the downtown square. The walk will take place on Tuesday, July 23, and people are asked to meet in front of the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, located at 1723 I Street in Bedford.
The Zahn District contains some of Bedford’s oldest homes. The area was primarily modest frame homes from the late 1800s, intermingled with a few grander, earlier homes, some larger bungalows built between 1905 and 1930, and a dominant church overlooking the neighborhood.
Bedford limestone was used to pave the walks, build the retaining walls, and build several limestone porches. The variety of architectural styles reflects the long period of time over which the neighborhood was built. Eleven buildings have Victorian details, and Queen Anne details are on some homes. Others represent Gothic or Greek revival architecture.
The brick Gaussin House across from the Catholic Church, built in the Second Empire Style, is especially grand. So is the brightly painted Victorian home on H Street, which has been recently restored. Learn about these houses, as well as the second oldest house in Bedford and the Catholic Church properties.
The Zahn District is named for John Zahn, a German immigrant who came to Bedford in 1855 and built the 1831 I Street home where he lived. Zahn is thought to have built other houses in the neighborhood. Four generations of Zahn’s family lived in the house, and one of his descendants will be there to tell more of his story.
Please RSVP for the program by July 22 by calling 812-275-5692 or emailing aray@bedford.in.us.
