Located in Fishers, Indiana, is The Historic Ambassador House and Heritage Gardens. This property is full of history and can be ideal for weddings and other events. Named after its most notorious resident, Addison Clay Harris, this abode has stood the test of time for generations. Addison resided here from 1880 and served as the United States’ ambassador to Austria-Hungary from the years 1899 to 1901. In its new location, the house’s surrounding gardens offer visitors a pleasant mix of both heritage and native plants. Pops of colorful flora are included in the form of annual species, rounding out a lush landscape.

Facilities and Capacity

Upon arrival, couples and their wedding guests will encounter daffodils in the springtime or lilies in the late summer. A brick path will guide groups to a pergola arbor, adorned with roses of the New Dawn variety. The garden beyond is dotted with carefully curated flowering plants, contributing to an enchanting atmosphere that permeates the entire property. Coming up on The Ambassador House, a manicured lawn presents well with artful installations, such as renowned horticulture professional Pearl Fryer’s topiary. A Greek Revival style dominates the house, and wedding hosts will have access to it alongside the surrounding grounds. Celebrations taking place at this historic landmark can accommodate up to 250 guests with the provided tent facilities.

Services Offered

There are various event packages available to couples booking an occasion at this property. Each of these includes 100 resin chairs, a 100-by-40-foot tent, and a venue facilitator. Additional services are provided in more extensive packages, including access to the main house during rehearsal. Caterers can be recommended by the venue and couples are free to hire their preferential music entertainment. To schedule a tour, potential clients may call or email the on-site event specialists.

History

Originally, The Historic Ambassador House and Heritage Gardens began as a log cabin. It was built by pioneer settlers, the West family, in the middle of the 1820s. A change of hands came about in 1871 when William Britton Hartman purchased the lot. After Addison's residency in 1880, he passed it on to his kin, India Harris, who died in 1948. Following this, the house fell under Indiana University’s jurisdiction before being transferred to India’s lawyer. The year 1996 saw threats of demolition, so, in great thanks to the property acquisition by the Town of Fishers and the actions of Fishers Historic Preservation Committee, it was saved. The Historic Ambassador House and Heritage Gardens moved to its new home on 106th Street and Eller Road in November of that year. After 13 years of restoration, the house was opened to the public as a community center for everyone’s enjoyment.