WNLP photo by Bob Wellinski
WNLP editor’s note: One of La Porte County’s true treasures is retiring, as announced below by the Indiana Historical Society. Her gifts of research, infinite knowledge and countless hours of dedication to her love of local history are priceless. Coming soon will be a new WNLP interview with Fern. Meantime, please use the search engine at the upper right-hand box on our main page. Just type in “Fern Eddy Schultz” and you will access many, many WNLP posts of her fascinating columns on local history and more. This 2017 WNLP story about her is among our favorites: No one more deserving: Museum’s research library is named for LaPorte County Historian Fern Eddy Schultz | What’s New LaPorte?
From Indiana Historical Society
After 30 years, La Porte County Historian Fern Eddy Schultz will be retiring at the end of 2020. After her retirement, Schultz will become La Porte County Historian Emeritus.
Schultz was appointed La Porte County Historian in 1991, and over the course of her life has tirelessly worked to preserve, share and promote La Porte County history. Her numerous accomplishments include leading the restoration of Pine Lake Cemetery’s Eason Chapel in 1993; writing many books, articles and columns on local historical topics; compiling and preserving historical records; producing exhibits; and serving as a speaker for many history programs.
In 2002, Schultz was awarded the Hubert Hawkins History Award by the Indiana Historical Society. In 2017, the La Porte County Historical Society dedicated The Fern Eddy Schultz Research Library in honor of her service to the research, education and preservation of the history of La Porte County.
A new mural in downtown La Porte, installed last year, highlights the impact Schultz has had in the local history community. The mural depicts the history of La Porte throughout the years, with Schultz as the centerpiece, surrounded by historical images. She has served on the boards of the Pine Lake Cemetery Association, the La Porte County Historical Society and many other history organizations.
“I will still be available at netster@csinet.net and would enjoy hearing from each and every one who I have had contact with over these wonderful 30 years,” she said.
The Indiana Historical Society and the Indiana Historical Bureau thank Fern Eddy Schultz for her many years of service and dedication to local history.
In 1981, through an effort to improve the historical communication network in the state, the Indiana Historical Society and the Indiana Historical Bureau established the Indiana County Historian Program. County historians serve as volunteers appointed by the Indiana Historical Society and Indiana Historical Bureau to promote local history in their counties, connect individuals and groups with history resources, promote collaboration between local history organizations and maintain connections with the Indiana Historical Society and Indiana Historical Bureau.
Lynn Lisarelli
Nov 24. 2020
What a wonderful lifetime accomplishment for you, Fern! Many happy wishes and good health to you in your retirement.
Doug Snyder
Nov 24. 2020
Fern,
Can’t thank you enough for all of the great stories and history lessons. You have been invaluable to all of us.
Enjoy your time off. I will be in touch.
Jeff Beavers
Dec 02. 2020
Congrats…..you are a Dictionary of information!!
My family wishes you well on your next venture!!
Your House is amazing looking…..Happy Retirement…
J.GRADY BEAVERS
Mike Kellems
Nov 24. 2020
There are not enough words to describe Fern or her dedication to bringing the history of La Porte County alive. My appreciation of local history is partially rooted in watching/reading/listening to Fern.
A few years back I had the good fortune of teaming up with Fern when the chapel at Pine Lake Cemetery was opened for Memorial Day. In the few short hours we spent together I learned much however I was also witness to her magic as dozens upon dozens of folks approached Fern to ask questions and listen as she shared her vast knowledge. Our community can never repay Fern for her tireless dedication and service. She is such a wonderful example of true community spirit!
God’s best blessings to you Fern!
John Wooden
Nov 24. 2020
You have been a blessing to LaPorte and I have always loved reading your articles. I have learned some things I did not know about our past and been reminded of things I forgot. Your articles were always interesting and will be missed. Best wishes and good health for you in your retirement.
Jan Boardman
Nov 24. 2020
Bravo, Fern. I have learned so much about Indiana history from you, and always enjoy reading your articles. Continue to research your heart out, at your own pace. I hope to read more of your “pearls of wisdom” well into the future. Carry on.
lawman
Nov 24. 2020
you will be missed! Fern knows how important history is in a time when everyone wants to push it aside. Much to be learned from history. thank you for all your hard work and have a wonderful retirement.
David Mann
Nov 24. 2020
Congradalations Fern, I am glad that I got to know you while volunteering at the Museum, and also enjoy your articles about our County’s history. Your excelent record and filing system will be a great benefit to your successor. Enjoy you’r retirement.
Barbara Backer
Nov 24. 2020
Dear Fern-It is wonderful to read the articles outlining your amazing contributions to the history of our area. Your knowledge and willingness to share are legendary and have been an inspiration to many others. Congratulations on your retirement and best wishes for the future.
Rich Ehrick
Nov 25. 2020
Fern; I have known you and Lynette for a good many years. when I had question pertaining to my genealogy you were always there with the answer. Thank you for all your help. May your retirement be a long and healthy one. We will miss you.
Maurice G Levine
Nov 25. 2020
Fern you are a gem! Your extensive knowledge of La Porte County’s history and your talent for research have provided a window to the past that will benefit future generations for centuries to come. You are entitled to your retirement, but if I know you, we’ll still benefit from your store of knowledge that would otherwise be lost.
Michaelene Ziembo
Nov 27. 2020
Fern, thank you for enriching my knowledge of La Porte’s history. I especially appreciated your answers about Michigan City and Porter County. Congratulations and best wishes on your retirement.