Schnitzelbank Restaurant to unveil new Glockenspiel later this month
The Schnitzelbank Restaurant will celebrate the completion of its new Glockenspiel clock tower with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 24th, marking three years of planning and a significant upgrade to the Jasper establishment’s German-inspired attractions.
The Schnitzelbank has been operating as a destination restaurant in Dubois County since its opening in 1961. Originally a small tavern, the establishment transformed into an authentic German restaurant in 1971 under the vision of founder Larry Hanselman.
A 1988 renovation introduced a gift shop and the restaurant’s first Glockenspiel. The new Glockenspiel significantly expands on that original design.
“The new Glockenspiel is a significant evolution from our original version,” explained Kim Fischer,? Marketing & Sales Coordinator for Hanselman Group. “While the first featured smaller, more modest figures, the new one showcases much larger, fully animated characters that bring the scene to life in a more engaging and dynamic way.”
The new Glockenspiel will feature 16 pitched bells, a conductor who leads performances, and three animated characters that dance to German-inspired melodies. It can also be programmed for unique performances.
“With today’s advanced technology, we now have the ability to program custom performances, including seasonal songs and special-event melodies, offering a more immersive and festive experience,” Fischer said.
This combination of visual and auditory elements will bring a unique touch of Old-World Bavaria to life in Jasper.
A traditional Glockenspiel clock is a mechanical timepiece that plays melodic chimes while showcasing moving figurines. The word “Glockenspiel” translates from German as “bells play,” and these elaborate timepieces traditionally appear in Europe to celebrate cultural heritage.
The Schnitzelbank’s Glockenspiel will be one of only a few such attractions in the United States, making it a rare feature for visitors to experience. The restaurant already draws visitors from near and far for its authentic German cuisine, lively atmosphere, and deep-rooted traditions.
The addition of the new Glockenspiel will further establish the restaurant’s status as a regional landmark. The enhanced attraction will offer another unique experience for both locals and tourists visiting Dubois County.
The restaurant has maintained its reputation as a must-visit location in Dubois County throughout its decades of operation. The authentic German cuisine and cultural atmosphere have made it a beloved landmark known for its rich German heritage and traditional offerings.
The new Glockenspiel represents a significant investment in enhancing the restaurant’s cultural attractions. The three-year development process involved extensive research to ensure authenticity and proper construction of the mechanical components.
The restaurant’s commitment to preserving and celebrating German heritage continues with this latest addition. The Glockenspiel will serve as both a functional timepiece and a cultural attraction that honors traditional German craftsmanship.
