Honoring Our Swiss Heritage
The Chalet of the Golden Fleece
Visit the charming, Swiss Alps chalet-style home of Edwin Barlow, who brought the Wilhelm Tell play to America in 1938, and discover thousands of artifacts Barlow collected during his travels abroad in the early-to-mid 20th century
New Glarus’ own “Swissonian” is a fascinating Swiss Alps chalet-style home. Edwin Barlow, the owner of the Chalet of the Golden Fleece, filled the museum with artifacts from his travels in the early to mid-20th century. Barlow’s life story is compelling, not only an orphan and a WWI veteran, but instrumental in New Glarus becoming America’s Little Switzerland! Attending the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly’s wedding are two of the highlights of his career as a Dignitary and World Traveler. New Glarus architect Jacob Rieder designed the home with authentic features found in Bern, Switzerland. Today, the Chalet has been awarded a place in both the National and Wisconsin State Registers of Historic Places as an outstanding example of authentic Swiss chalet - one of only three in Wisconsin. Barlow’s love of collecting and old world craftsmanship is unmistakable in the rare and unique antiques he acquired during his 63 Atlantic Crossings and two world tours. His knack for finding the extraordinary is on display in every room. Visitors will learn about mountain life in the Swiss Alps, as well as viewing artifacts from around the world. Guests will be delighted by some of nation’s finest Swiss folk art and wood carvings along with relics from ancient Egyptian and Mexican tombs. Visitors agree that the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum is a well-kept secret and are amazed at the collection and architecture.
Learn More, First Hand
Friends of the Chalet of the Golden Fleece and members of the New Glarus community fill you in on this hidden gem in this video.
Help Us Preserve History
Contribute a little or a lot. Whatever you can give to help us maintain, preserve and support this museum will go a long way.
“Part of a history of this beautiful town. Time machine tour and unique objects with tons of stories behind.”
— LUISA R.
“What a super cool experience! You must take a tour. It lasts an hour, but you'll barely feel it go by as you listen to the learned docents speak about the interesting things inside the house. Every person will find something cool to see.”
— MEGAN F.
“What an interesting place and story! Also, an extremely accommodating staff.”
— KERRY E.
“We loved visiting today, this place is PACKED with soo many fascinating tickets, eclectic furniture, and decor…Knowledgeable tour guides! We even learned a bit about Swiss history which I'd never heard before. Definitely worth checking out.”
— CLARA JEAN W.
