Berne, Indiana is a small town south of Fort Wayne, Indiana with a Swiss Mennonite background. They came in the early 1800’s seeking religious freedom and a place to farm and make a new life for themselves. There is a strong Swiss influence in many of the buildings, and in the ethos of the town. Doors are left unlocked, people are courteous, and hard work is a way of life.
Growing up in northern Indiana, which has the second largest Amish/Mennonite population in the United States, I feel fortunate to have lived in a place that still celebrates old-fashioned values. The small towns of northern Indiana are good places to live.
I enjoyed a stop in Berne on Friday as I began my long journey back to Savannah, GA. It was a good reminder of a good life!
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The Clock Tower
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Commemorating the original settlers.
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Settlers Monument.
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The Swiss & American Flags.
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All the cantons of Switzerland.
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They came seeking a better life.
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An office Building.
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My B&B for the night.
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A familiar sight in northern Indiana towns.
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Beautiful quilts to be had at the Quilt Shop.
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I'm sure there are lots of flowers here in the summer.
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Symbol of the bear for which Berne, Switzerland is down.
