Historic Cottage Walks
Step back in time for a guided summertime tour of quaint cottages. Good Templar members and cottage owners will lead small groups on tours of select Swedish stugas or cottages, many built during the late 1920s and 1930s. Stroll the lovely grounds of this peaceful park, learn more about its fascinating history and pick up delicous Swedish baked goods.
Our History from tents to stugas:
When the park opened in 1925, the northeast corner of the park was used as a campground to allow members overnight accommodations. Over the years dwellings shifted from large tents to family owned platforms for extended stays. Around 1933, more permanent stugas (Swedish for tiny houses) were constructed to provide seasonal shelter.
In 1949 a brick Community House was built in on the footprint of an earlier barn-like structure to hold indoor gatherings, and a larger brick restroom and shower facility was constructed. Eventually, the campground was expanded to the south side of the creek in the early 1940’s which added 15 structures. In all, 58 cottages were built.
Cottages in Good Templar Park are owned by members of the IOGT. Cottages for sale can be found here. Only members of this organization can own cottages. Persons interested in owning a cottage and membership in the IOGT can Contact us.
Cottages in Good Templar Park are privately owned by members of the International Organization of Good Templars (IOGT). If you are interested in joining the IOGT, learn more about the organization, its platform, and its community involvement.
The telephone booth was an important part of camp life in the campground. The pay telephone has left. Current residents have created a little library for summer residents. Yes, the bell works! It was used in various ways to communicate to campers. To learn more visit the events page for our next cottage walks