By JULIE CARLE
BG Independent News
More than 25 years ago, a Pemberville Friends of the Library committee had an idea for an event that would celebrate the holidays, raise some funds and provide an opportunity for locals to socialize. The Holiday Home Tour was born.
Joanne Bruning, who was one of the original committee members, said they were brainstorming ideas to raise some funds for the organization, but they also wanted to bring people together and to show off their wonderful, welcoming community.
“It’s been such a friendly group, like family,” she said. “We always enjoyed spending time together and getting acquainted with new people” who participated in the every-other-year holiday tours or the garden tours held in the off years.
During the early years, the tour was scheduled so everyone would meet and drive to the homes in caravans. Now, the tour is set up as a self-guided tour on Saturday, Dec. 7 between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The five Pemberville homes on this year’s tour include the homes of Erica and Simon Messinger, 16630 N. River Road; Amy Eisenhour, 430 Linden Drive; Marcia and Denny Cousino, 143 E. Front Street; Nancy and David Pfeiffer, 315 Vine Street; and Anna and Chuck Smith, 6860 Linwood Road.
Historic home of Erica and Simon Messinger
Erica and Simon Messinger and their children, Brock and Reid, have filled their historic home at 16630 N. River Road with holiday traditions and vibrant celebrations. The home was built in 1880 for beloved community members Clifford and Eloise Duncan. Simon and Erica made it their own when they moved into the house in 2018.
The Messingers admit they are a “house divided” – between Michigan and Ohio State. One tradition they hold onto is no holiday décor goes up until after “the big game.” It’s become a playful family superstition.
Once it’s decorating time, though, Erica transforms their home with a passion for vintage decor, inspired by family heirlooms. Her collection includes milk glass, Fenton satin blue glass, and bells, all of which began with pieces handed down from her grandmother and great-grandmother. Inspired by her relatives’ generosity, Erica has developed a passion for “treasure hunting,” often exploring for vintage finds. “The holidays are especially meaningful for us, as we love to showcase our collections, including the milk glass, antique ornaments, and cherished heirlooms passed down through generations,” Erica said.
Their holiday decorating style is a blend of old and new, weaving each room together with accents of gold, silver, white, and natural wood. While Erica creates a festive atmosphere with her decor, Simon delights in the kitchen, preparing holiday meals for family and friends. Together, they bring warmth and joy into their historic home, making it a place where memories are created and shared year after year.
First Christmas in new neighborhood
Amy Eisenhour welcomes Holiday Home Tour guests to her home in Pemberville’s newest neighborhood, known as Pember Grove. The house at 430 Linden Drive was built by Schumacher Homes and completed in March 2024, making this Amy’s first Christmas in her new home.
Welcome to Pemberville’s newest neighborhood, Pember Grove. This house was built by Schumacher Homes and was completed in March 2024. This is Amy’s first Christmas in her new home. Still finalizing her holiday décor plans with the help and inspiration of many friends, she will have the house ready for the holidays by tour time.
Included around the house are many prized oil paintings painted by her mother. She also has an Ohio State room decorated in honor of her late husband Brian, who was a huge Buckeye fan. Amy loves her new home and will be happy to talk to tour visitors who might like to consider building a new home in Pember Grove.
A Slice of Pemberville
Marcia & Denny Cousino at 143 E Front St. are proud of the space that they call their “Slice of Pemberville.” Formerly the Kahler Drug Store, the Cousinos love to host family and community events.
For the Pemberville Holiday Home Tour, they have transformed the area into a “Wonderland of Nativities. Marcia has collected more than 100 nativities over the years. She has invited friends and family to share their nativities for the display, as well. The collection features various sizes and styles from around the world. “As you enjoy this display, we hope that you reflect on the true meaning of Christmas,” Marcia said.
Vintage home gets complete renovation
Nancy & David Pfeiffer bought their home at 315 Vine St. on July 13, 2022. They spent 18 months renovating the home. Originally, the land was owned by J.H. Bussman who sold it to E.F. Hagemeyer on Oct. 31, 1877, for $150. Two years later, in 1879, the house was built.
The Pfeiffers knew the house was a gem that needed major polishing, or a complete overhaul to ensure it would be around for another 145 years. They are delighted with the results and plan to live in the house and keep it in the Pfeiffer family for as long as they can. They will gladly share the results with Holiday Home Tour visitors.
Welcome to home built in 1822
Most of the Holiday Home Tour houses are historic; The house of Anna and Chuck Smith at 6860 Linwood Road is no exception. The house was built in 1822–almost 200 years ago–by the James Forrest family.
The home has been passed through many families over the past 142 years, but according to the Smiths, it has been preserved “in all its glory.” The home boasts a pristine condition with original floors, pocket doors and trim, all hand-painted wood grain.
The second floor still contains the original wash sink supplied by an attic cistern, complete with lead pipes. The decorations are all inspired by collections, room decor, and family ornaments. Each room boasts a different theme, including many handmade wreaths and florals. “We hope you enjoy your tour with us and wish you a very, Merry Christmas,” Anna said.
Tour information
The tours of the five homes five area homes will be Saturday, Dec. 7 from 2 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the Pemberville Public Library, 375 E. Front St., or at individual homes on the day of the tour. Proceeds from the tour benefit the Friends of the Pemberville Library, and support the library and scholarships for area students, Bruning said.
One of the perks of the tour is spending time at the library to enjoy refreshments and socialize. Refreshments will be served at the library during the tour hours. For more information, call the library at 419-287-4012.
