Take an interpretive strolls through Bedford's Zahn Historic District on July 23

This month’s Bedford Park Program will be a historical walk during which participants can learn about one of Bedford’s oldest sections of town. Marla Jones and Teena Ligman will lead the walk through the Zahn Historic District, just south of the downtown square. The walk is on Tuesday, July 23, and people should meet in front of the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, at 1723 I St. in Bedford.

The Zahn District contains some of the oldest homes in Bedford. The area was primarily modest frame homes from the late 1800s, intermingled with a few grander, earlier homes, some larger bungalows build between 1905 and 1930 and a dominant church overlooking the neighborhood.

Bedford limestone was used for paving the walks and building the retaining walls, and 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, Queen Anne detail 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 — as is the brightly painted Victorian home on H Street that was recently restored. Come 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 and 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 on the walk to tell more of his story.

Please RSVP for the program by July 22, so we know how many people to expect: call 812-275-5692 or email aray@bedford.in.us.