Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory, 1878
106 Milton Street, Madison, IN 47250
Architect/Designer: Benedict Schroeder
DESCRIPTION:
The Schroeder Saddletree Factory is a complex of five structures, main building and former Schroeder residence, the assembly shop, blacksmith shop, woodworking shop and sawmill/engine room. The main building is a one and half stories, a simple T plan with a rear porch overlooking the factory buildings; originally used as the factory this structure was converted into a residence in 1887. The workshops are all wood clad, painted red and white they rise one to two stories. The factory areas all feature large windows and entry ways to accommodate natural light and easy access to factory equipment.
SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT – INCLUDING SPECIAL STATUS AND AWARDS WON:
Saddletrees are the carved wood frames that create the foundation of riding saddles. A major product of Madison’s economy towards the end of the 19th century; Madison was even considered the saddletree capital of the Midwest with 12 different saddletree companies. The Schroeder Saddletree factory was a major player in saddletree manufacturing, producing not just saddletrees but additional riding gear. The factory itself has been expertly preserved including Schroeder’s extensive collection of manufacturing equipment. Additionally, the factory itself has been recorded in the Historic American Engineering Record.
DESIGNATION STATUS:
National Register of Historic Places, 1973
National Historic Landmark, Madison Historic District, 2003
Style: Industrial/Barn
Owner (past/present):
Past: Benedict Schroeder
Present: Historic Madison, Inc.
Materials: Wood, brick
Additions and/or changes with date:
1887, factory altered into residential space
Various interior changes and restoration
Historic use/current use:
Historic use: Saddle tree factory and residence
Current use: Museum
Is building open to the public? Yes, seasonal tours available
Condition : Good
Website and/or sources of information
Visit: http://historicmadisoninc.com/properties/schroeder-saddletree-factory/
Research Sources:
Historic Madison, Inc. “Schroeder Saddletree Factory.” Accessed August 13, 2015.http://historicmadisoninc.com/properties/schroeder-saddletree-factory/
National Park Service. “Ben Schroeder Saddletree Factory.” Accessed August 13, 2015http://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/madison/Ben_Schroeder_Saddletree_Factory.html
National Historic Landmark, Madison Historic District, Madison, Jefferson, IN. 2003.
