Discover Wisconsin’s Cornish
History and the Couple
Who Helped Preserve It
Every building tells a story, and at Pendarvis, there are plenty, each with a unique narrative to tell. Your journey through this picturesque cluster of stone structures will take you not only through the stories of the people who originally created and inhabited them, but also the story of Bob Neal and Edgar Hellum, the couple who salvaged, restored, and made these buildings shine again.
Start your history road trip!
Pick up your 2024 Member PastPort and start collecting stamps when you visit Pendarvis! Redeem your stamps for discounts or even a free year of membership! Not a member? Join today to get in on the fun.
Mark Your Calendar
Get the Best Deal in History
Wisconsin Historical Society members receive unlimited free admission to our 11 historic sites and museums, a complimentary annual subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, merchandise discounts and more. Join at the Family level and above for added benefits and discounts at over 1,200 organizations nationwide!
Follow Us!
Pendarvis
Tucked away in historic Mineral Point, Pendarvis celebrates the 20th century preservation efforts of
Have you been baking this Christmas season!
Christmas was a busy time at Pendarvis House even though the restaurant would close annually in the fall. To make income in the off season, Pendarvis founders Bob Neal and Edgar Hellum started a mail order service of homemade Christmas treats shortly after they opened in the mid 1930s, and running it through the closure of the restaurant in 1970. Saffron and fruit cake, along with potted preserves, were shipped out all over the country and became a holiday tradition for many families.
Several letters in our archives display the regret many felt about the end of this Christmas tradition. "I am sorry to learn you may not be making cakes in the future. Over the years they have been something we looked forward to eating at Christmas time in our family." (letter from K.A. Bennett, dated 1/16/1971)
📸 Pendarvis Archives: 1) Cornish plum preserves tag that was tied to stoneware jars; 2) small box used to ship saffron cake; 3) advertisement for cake and preserve mail ordering ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
Did you get your Christmas cards sent out yet? These Christmas cards sent to Bob and Edgar were made by Mineral Point artists Max and Ava Fernekes between 1941 and 1969. The handmade cards feature the family and their home.
📸 Christmas cards, Pendarvis Archives ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
We're definitely biased, but this is our favorite gingerbread house! An unknown artist recreated our log and stone house, Polperro, in great details in holiday treat form. Mini Polperro is part of the Wild Blue Yonder Coffeehouse's gingerbread contest in Mineral Point. ... See MoreSee Less
Comment on Facebook
That's great and very distinctive!! Reminds me of Point!!
How awesome!