In addition to the annual haunted house, special activities at Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site include a ghostly tour, an herb sale on the second Saturday in May, summer adventure classes for youths, and a Victorian afternoon tea. The mansion is in New Albany’s historic district, and a stroll through the neighborhood includes many beautiful homes of the same era.
Special Events A Garden Party June 1, 2013; 8 – 11 p.m.
$5 for the lecture, $10 for the Garden Party Kick off the summer season with a new brew at one of the state’s finest historic homes! In a community partnership with the New Albanian Brewing Company, the Culbertson Mansion is reviving the home’s Garden Party tradition for the debut of the New Albanian’s Bicentennial Brew. This outdoor program features a talk on the history of New Albany’s breweries, live music & entertainment, a cash bar and light refreshments – all in true Culbertson style.
Community Open House June 1, 2013; 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
June 2, 2013; 1 – 5 p.m.
Discounted admission $2 per adult; $1 per child As part of New Albany’s community Main Street event and in conjunction with St. Paul’s Art on the Parish Green, the Culbertson Mansion will host a Victorian ARTS Open House. Children’s yard games, refreshments and self-guided tours of the Mansion will be available.
The Wake: A Murder Mystery June 28, 29, 2013; 7 p.m.
$20 per person; $35 per couple This Murder Mystery takes place in 1892 with the death of William S. Culbertson. As people pay their last respects at Mr. Culbertson’s wake, there is great speculation about “who will inherit what” from one of the richest men in Indiana. Little did anyone know that lawsuits would be filed after the reading of his last will and testament. As tempers flare, greed can always lead to murder. Reservations and payment in advance are required.
Literally, A Haunted House Sept. 27, 28, Oct. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 2013; 7 p.m.
$13 per person The Culbertson Mansion’s haunted Carriage House is not for the faint of heart. TheScareFactor.com warns that, “There may be times where you are wondering if everyone in your group will make it out alive. Be aware of your surroundings, this cast is known for drawing your attention away from what you should really be afraid of.” In addition, on Oct. 19, 20, 26, 27 enjoy Halloween storytelling in the mansion at 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. for an additional $1 per child, $2 per adult.
Ghost Watch Undertaking Sleepover Nov. 2; 2013; 6 p.m. – 6 a.m.
$100 per adult, reservations required Spend the night at Culbertson Mansion … if you dare! Brave guests will enjoy a candlelight dinner, tarot card readings, a ghost tour of the mansion, and a scavenger hunt before attempting to make it through the night. Must be over 18 to attend.
Halloween Tea Oct. 13, 2013; 2 – 4 p.m.
$15 per adult; $8 per child 3 – 8; under 3 free; reservations required Enjoy an afternoon of whimsy and frighteningly good treats as you partake in “finger” foods. Wear costumes to add to the atmosphere, and meet the Queen of Halloween herself as she shares stories that are sure to get you in the “spirit” of things.
Ghostly Happenings Tour Oct. 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31, 2013; 7:30 p.m.
$15 per person; reservations required Discover some of the strange, unexplainable things that have happened at Culbertson Mansion during this ghostly tour.
Christmas Open House Dec. 7, 8, 2013; 1 – 5 p.m.
$1 per person Experience a Victorian Christmas at the Culbertson Mansion. Enjoy decorations throughout the mansion, live musical entertainment and refreshments.
Christmas Murder Mystery Dec. 13, 14, 2013; 7 p.m.
$20 per person; $35 per couple; reservations required At the 1883 Culbertson’s annual Christmas party, tensions are running high after William and his fiancée Rebecca announce their engagement … tensions that ultimately lead to murder! As a guest at the party, you will have the opportunity to play detective by naming the killer and the motive. Refreshments included.
Christmas Victorian Afternoon Tea Dec. 15, 2013; 2 – 4 p.m.
$18 per person; reservations required Enjoy beautiful Christmas decorations, music, and tasty treats while sipping a variety of flavored hot teas followed by a tour of the mansion.
For more information on programs at Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site, call 812.944.9600.
PATCH PROGRAMS FOR SCOUTS Earn your Historic Preservation Patch at the Indiana State Historic Sites! Grades 3 – 12 Find out how your Scout group or youth organization can learn to love and protect old architectural treasures in our communities. Designed for both older and younger youth, visit one of the participating state historic sites and do the rest of the activities on your own, or request a program be provided for your group at $3 per person.
When the requirements are completed, you may purchase this patch for $3 at the Lanier Mansion State Historic Site. For information and patch requirements, contact Anne Fairchild at 812.273.4531 or afairchild@indianamuseum.org.
