Jean Struewing has spent countless hours working to preserve the history of Batesville for future generations. For her diligent efforts, she was named Distinguished Chamber Volunteer at the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce annual dinner Jan. 28.
Struewing, a lifelong Batesville resident, has been married to husband Ham for 52 years, and they have six children (Jeff Struewing, Takoma Park, Md.; Nancy Struewing, Cincinnati; Debra Hayhurst, Newburgh; Susan Phillips, Batesville; Doug Struewing, Muncie; and Carol Struewing, Indianapolis), reported Tim Dietz, Batesville Area Historical Society board of directors member, when introducing her as the honoree.
“She began volunteering when her kids were in school” and was involved in afterschool activities and is also active at St. Louis Catholic Church.
Along with her husband, she started an “alcohol awareness team that promoted the idea that teenagers can have fun without alcohol.”
In 1999, a group of citizens interested in preserving Batesville’s past had their first meeting. In 2000, “Jean was elected president” of the BAHS and has held this position ever since.
“In 2002, the society had its first opportunity to show off the articles collected .... The idea came about that we should have a museum,” Dietz revealed. From 2004-07, items were set up in the old Cinergy building, which belonged to the Batesville Memorial Public Library. However, when the library expanded operations, the BAHS had to move out.
“Jean was a driving force” behind finding a new home for the museum. “It was her greatest passion .... In 2009, the museum opened. Jean set up all the displays and organizes people to be up there and be tour guides.
“Batesville should be proud of its past history and heritage. The museum is a very good asset to community .... Of course, Jean was never satisfied. She decided the museum wasn’t enough. She spent many hours selecting pictures .... and had a book published in 2008” about the city’s history.
Chamber director Melissa Tucker also reported Struewing researched 1920 Batesville milestones for a pamphlet at each dinner seat in a nod to the chamber’s 90th anniversary.
“Batesville really owes Jean for her dedication to preserve its past .... Jean, you’re very deserving of this award. Congratulations,” the board member announced.
Upon accepting her honor, Struewing said, “I get very emotional when I talk .... I’m thanking you guys from the bottom of my heart. If you do something you like to do, it isn’t a job or hard to do.”
The grandmother of 12 added, “You’ve heard of the television show ‘Touched by an Angel.’ I was touched by .... (two) when Abel Ang and Elsa Soderberg offered to help me find a suitable place for a museum.
“Others also got involved” in efforts to get the museum off the ground with over 1,800 volunteer hours logged .... We were so lucky to have so many volunteers to help .... Businesses also gave us discounts on items.
“I invite everyone to come and visit,” she stressed.
Diane Raver can be contacted at 812-934-4343, Ext. 114; or diane.raver@ batesvilleheraldtribune.com.
