Horses and cavalry. Apple butter and honey. This coupled with old-time farm buildings and machinery played a major part in the success of the Civil War Days event in Hermann Missouri. This was the third year the event has been put on by the Dierberg Educational Foundation. Much of the success can also be attributed to Eli McDonald who is the Director of Operations. “The reenactment of the water landing is definitely the first in the state of Missouri.”
Hermann’s Civic Atmosphere
Jim Dierberg, who has been a great contributor to beautifying the Hermann area, said his vision for the Hermann Farm was, essentially, a gut feeling. “People who come here have a very civic outlook on the surroundings; the rolling hills, the bluffs, the lazy river. The Hermann Farm is meant to enhance that kind of feeling and give people a look at a living history farm.”
Tin Mill Brewery and the Hermannhof Winery is certainly an extension of that vision. Harvesting hops and barley is a crucial step in creating a great beer. Tin Mill Brewery captures the essence of the brewing industry both in the quality of their beer and also the inside decor in the brewery itself. The winery focuses more on the fruit of the vine. Picking grapes and turning them into quality wine has been a tradition in Hermann for decades. This cultivation of the land inspires Mr. Dierberg and his projects in the Hermann area.
Hermann Farm History
The buildings on the Hermann Farm premises have definite stories of their own. Many hours have been, and are still being, taken to restore them to their previous splendor. The farm house located at the entrance to the Hermann Farm has been taken into special care because of the history that resides within as well as the tree next to it, which is estimated to be the oldest and largest Ginkgo tree in the state. The house was owned by George Husmann and is definitely a landmark in the community and Missouri.
With support from the actors, many of the visitors to the Civil War Days were pleasantly greeted by cavalry, nurses, tradespeople and a Civil War time setting. Tents lined the hillside and visitors were able to interact with the actors and get a better feeling of the era.
The number of visitors significantly increased from the previous years which shows an interest in history in the area as well as family-friendly events that can be both educational and entertaining. The Civil War Days definitely has a future in Hermann and could possibly fall during the Spring in later dates.
Upcoming Events
The next event planned for the Dierberg Foundation is the Lewis and Clark Christmas. Held the first week in December, the event will be held and the Hofgarten and showcases many vendors and products surrounding the travels of Lewis and Clark in Missouri. Be sure to keep watch on the Calendar of Events.
I am fourth generation of the Wittmann family who were one of the early families who settled in Hermann from the German Settlement of Philadelphia. Am always in search of knowing more of my family and their life in Hermann. The three generations that I am searching into; David Wittmann who served in the Civil War. Louis & Kate Wittmann. My grand parents Arthur A. & Rose Marie Wittmann; my immediate family, who have past away.
I visit Hermann various times of the year to enjoy this little bit of German heritage on the Missouri river.
Lee, great to have read your comment of living in Hermann, a really historic German community, a little bit of the Rhineland Valley in these beautiful rolling hills of Hermann.
Look forward to October Fest & Kristkindl Market at Festhalle, Hofgarten of Hermannhof Winery. Enjoying the various craftsmen in period clothing, stepping back into by gone days of historic Hermann. Reminiscing of days while visiting my various relatives living in this beautiful German Settlement.