The Swiss Community Historical Society will celebrate a prominent local farmer, entrepreneur and community servant at its annual June Swiss Day event, Sunday, June 26.

John U. Amstutz, who lived and worked in the late 19th and early 20th century, was a coffin-maker and undertaker for the local region.  

In addition, he provided a variety of community services from his property including a sorghum cane mill and press, a cider press, wood and metal-working shops, a clock shop and general store, a photography studio, and a weighing scale for produce loaded farm wagons.

An avid collector, Amstutz enjoyed displaying and discussing accumulated items in a “museum” located in his store.

Society Board member Todd Rainey will present research that he, and fellow board members Keith Sommer and Kaye Phillips have accumulated on the interesting and eclectic business ventures of Amstutz, his business partners and family members including some photos taken by his son, Samuel. 

“We are excited to present this documentation of the hard work, enterprise, and generosity of these early members of the Riley and Riley Township portions of the early Swiss Mennonite community,” said Rainey,

The public is invited to attend the annual event on Sunday, June 26, at the Ebenezer Mennonite Church.  

The day begins with displays of local artifacts at 12:30 p.m. prior to a pot luck dinner at 1 p.m. Bring table service and a hot and cold dish to share.  

The presentation on John U. Amstutz follows the meal beginning at 2 p.m.

At the conclusion of the Swiss Day event, and Schumacher homestead located on Bixel Road) will be open for visitors.