[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 57 (Tuesday, May 6, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E843]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     TRIBUTE TO THE DEDICATION OF THE BAUMGARTNER HOUSE HISTORICAL 
                           DESIGNATION PLAQUE

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                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 6, 1997

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, the history of the United States is one of a 
colorful patchwork, stitched by people of diverse backgrounds and 
cultures. Today, the Fraser Historical Commission with the people of 
the town of Fraser, will celebrate their history by decorating the 
Baumgartner House with a Michigan historical marker.
  In 1856, John Christian Baumgartner, a native of Bavaria, became one 
of the first landowners in Fraser when he purchased 80 acres of land. 
With his wife and children, Mr. Baumgartner erected a magnificent farm 
house with outbuildings.
  The architecture of the home is German rundlborgenstil, meaning 
round-arched windows. Windows are the focal point of the home and are 
surrounded by corbelling. The house is a perfect symmetrical square, 
made entirely of brick. This type of architecture is rare in Michigan 
but was popular in the United States from the 1840's to the 1860's.
  This unique home, complete with a grain farm, orchard, and 
outbuildings was inhabited by the Baumgartner family until 1907. Four 
families dwelled in the home until in 1981 when the city of Fraser 
purchased the home and converted it into a museum.
  It is important that monuments to our past are preserved for future 
generations to witness. I would like to congratulate the people of 
Fraser for their commitment to preserving our past for our future.

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