Welcome to the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, a place where art and nature come together to tell a story of creativity and inspiration. Nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County, Indiana, this historic site was once the home and studio of Theodore Clement Steele, a prominent figure in American regional impressionist painting.
The journey begins in 1907, when Steele, captivated by the area’s scenic beauty, purchased a 60-acre plot just south of Belmont. He envisioned a tranquil retreat where he could immerse himself in the landscape’s vibrant colors. Steele and his wife, Selma Neubacher Steele, established their home here, calling it the House of the Singing Winds, a name inspired by the gentle breezes that swept through the surrounding hills.
As you explore the site, imagine Steele working tirelessly in his hilltop studio, capturing the essence of the Indiana landscape with his brush. His work was so influential that in 1913, he was elected as an Associate Artist to the National Academy of Design in New York City. Steele’s legacy continued to grow, with his paintings exhibited across the United States, including the prestigious Panama–Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco in 1915.
Throughout their time here, the Steeles expanded their property to 211 acres, enhancing the home and gardens. The site became a year-round residence in 1912, providing a sanctuary not only for art but also for the couple’s personal life. After Steele’s passing in 1926, Selma remained on the property, preserving his legacy and eventually donating the land to the Indiana Department of Conservation in 1945. This generous act ensured that Steele’s contributions to art and culture would be celebrated for generations.
Today, visitors can tour the beautifully preserved home filled with original furnishings and artifacts, as well as the Large Studio, where Steele showcased his breathtaking landscapes. The site offers a unique opportunity to engage with Steele’s artistic vision, whether through guided tours, art classes, or simply strolling through the serene gardens that inspired so many of his works.
The T.C. Steele State Historic Site is not just a tribute to one man’s talent but a living testament to the enduring relationship between art and nature.
