Vivi has three museums, and admission is free.
The Life on the Ohio River History Museum tells Vivi’s steamboat history. It features beautiful riverboat memorabilia, including a captain’s wheel. Undoubtedly, it has one of Indiana’s finest collections of steamboat models.
The Switzerland County Museum is next to the 1860 Greek Revival Presbyterian Church. There’s an extensive collection of Native American items found around Vivi, relics of Vivi’s Swiss past, items that honor Vivi’s soldiers in many wars, and much more. Going upstairs is an unexpected treat. When the church was donated to Switzerland County as a museum, it was stipulated that the sanctuary would remain a sanctuary. That sanctuary looks much like it did back in 1860. It’s like stepping back in time into a preserved time capsule. It’s wonderfully peaceful and quiet, with sunlight pouring through beautiful stained-glass windows. The tradition back then was to memorialize church members who had passed away by putting their names in glass. However, what impressed me most were these comforters draped across the church pews where people sat every Sunday for decades, worshiping together. Seeing my mother and aunt slowly stitch a comforter together many years ago makes me appreciate the enormous skill, time, and patience required. Each comforter represents hands and needles sewing incredibly intricate and beautiful patterns while sharing laughs and stories. Only the delicate patterns and colors remain.
The Swiss Tea Bode Farmstead is just west of town, settled in 1817. A farming operation developed, culminating in the export of hay bales. The beautiful 1850s Greek Revival home overlooks the Ohio River. It’s open for special events and by appointment only. It’s the newest addition to the Switzerland County Historical Society.
There’s something special about this riverboat town, rich in history and Swiss heritage. You can feel it as you walk the city streets.
You’ll be amazed by what a stay in Switzerland County can do for you.
