— George Ade, from his will
From the very beginning, George Ade made his intentions clear: Hazelden was meant to be preserved and shared. Today’s restoration is a direct continuation of that promise—protecting the estate while returning it to active public use as a place of gathering, learning, and enjoyment.
hazelden today
Hazelden is currently in an active restoration period focused on renewing the estate for meaningful, long-term public use. Rather than a single construction project, this work represents a comprehensive effort to restore the buildings, grounds, and purpose of Hazelden.
Current efforts include restoring the museum spaces within the main house, establishing the Newton County Visitor Center, and transforming the historic Carriage House into a flexible venue for both community and private events. Alongside this work, planning, fundraising, and preservation efforts continue to ensure Hazelden’s sustainability for generations to come.
TIMELINE
Your Support Create’s Hazelden’s Future
Goals for this Project
1
Preserve the History and
Legacy of George Ade
2
Promote Community
Involvement and Education
3
Achieve Sustainability
of the Estate
The main house will serve as the George Ade Museum, preserving both the architectural character of the home and the story of the man who built it. Visitors will experience restored rooms that reflect Ade’s life, writing career, travels, and the many gatherings that once filled Hazelden with activity.
The museum will interpret:
- George Ade’s literary and theatrical legacy
- Hazelden’s role as a social and cultural gathering place
- The broader historical context of Ade’s work and influence
This space will serve as the heart of Hazelden’s story.
The West Wing of Hazelden will become the Newton County Visitor Center, welcoming residents and travelers alike, and connecting them to the county’s history, attractions, and communities. In addition to visitor services, the center will provide access to research materials and digitized archives, supporting education and local heritage preservation.
By linking Hazelden to the wider region, the Visitor Center strengthens tourism while positioning the estate as a gateway to Newton County.
The historic Carriage House will be restored as a one-of-a-kind event venue, designed to complement the gardens and grounds. This space will host weddings, reunions, community celebrations, educational programs, and more—continuing George Ade’s long tradition of hospitality.
Revenue generated through events will be reinvested into the care and preservation of Hazelden, helping ensure the estate remains financially sustainable and publicly accessible.
Surrounding it all are the restored Indiana-shaped Hazelden Gardens, now complete and open to the public. The gardens provide a scenic space for everyday enjoyment, reflection, and special events, anchoring the estate as both a historic and living landscape.
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