Stop 602 on Ruthmere's Gardens & Grounds tour is the garage. The garage was built at the same time as Ruthmere Mansion, in 1910. The garage originally housed Albert Beardsley's 1918 Cadillac, as well as a tool room. In addition, the garage is equipped with a wooden turntable that could spin the cars 180 degrees, because many vehicles did not have reverse. The second floor was used as an apartment for the chauffeur. Today, the main level holds three antique cars: the 1912 Pratt Forty, the 1916 Milburn Electric, and the 1918 Cadillac. The second level has been converted into the Robert Beardsley Arts Reference Library, open by appointment. The garage also features a hollyhock Tiffany window, as well as other fine pieces of art and murals.
Be sure to stop by Antiques on Beardsley at 816 West Beardsley Avenue, in the historical district of downtown Elkhart, where you’ll find a wonderful selection of antiques, uniques, and deals galore! It’s where the dealers shop! Open Tuesdays-Fridays, 11-6; Saturdays, 10-6; and Sundays, 12-5. Closed Mondays. Look for the red awning. Antiques on Beardsley … we’ve got your memories!