The German School was built in 1871 and used as the elementary school until 1955. Today, the entire building is a museum dedicated to telling the story of this charming river town founded in 1837.
The Kinder (children’s) Room houses antique toys, books, old school desks, German writings, blackboards, slates and doll houses. The River Room holds a replica of an early pilot house, models of riverboats, river photos, instruments and relics from the steamboat era. The Heritage Room features weapons from the Civil War, WWI and WWII, plus spear points and arrowheads from previous inhabitants. Near the Gift Shop is a black wedding dress.
The clock tower has been a prominent symbol in the City of Hermann since this engineering marvel from Germany was installed in 1890. A glass panel provides a view of the inner working parts.
The museum is open April-October and the first two weekends in December; closed Wednesdays.
Admission $3-$5. A participant of the national Blue Star Museum program, Historic Hermann Museum offers free admission to active-duty military members and their families.
Tours available year round by calling 573-486-2389.