(Michigan City, IN) - There’s still Christmas this year at what could be the most historic structure in Michigan City despite renovation.  Barker Mansion at 631 Washington Street is decorated annually for the season.

According to officials, most of the renovation work has been paused to allow the public to come and see the inside of the mansion decked out for the holidays.

Originally, the mansion was the home of John Barker, who made a fortune making railroad cars in Michigan City over a century ago.  Built in 1857, the home remained in the family for more than 100 years.

The mansion is closed on Mondays but opens five days a week from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays.

Renovation work has moved to the second and third floors of the mansion following completion on the mail level and in the basement.  La Porte County Commissioner Joe Haney was impressed at the restoration when he toured the facility last week.

“They did a lot of excellent work there,” he said.