In this episode, I sit down with Larry Clifford to explore the rich history of the Rose Garden at Leeper Park.

Over 10 years ago, Larry spearheaded an effort to "resurrect the roses" and beautify a neglected historic Rose Garden at South Bend's Leeper Park.

Dating back to the early 1900s, the garden has evolved through multiple redesigns, weathered floods, experienced periods of decline, and found new life thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers committed to preserving this important piece of local history.

Larry shares what inspired the restoration effort, the challenges of maintaining a historic public space, and why beautiful public places still matter today.

Want to help, volunteer, or learn more? Check out the Resurrect the Roses Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1EvGmmkxdh/

Special thanks to Larry Clifford and the many volunteers who have dedicated their time, energy, and passion in trying to ensure this garden maintains all of its beauty.

This episode is made possible by M/T Box Computers, Dan Berry Insurance, and InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop! More info below!

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Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

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Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

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Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

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Available on all of the popular podcast platforms (Apple, Spotify, etc.)

Podcast Website: Now & Then Round the Bend Website - All Episodes Here

Like on Facebook: Round the Bend Now and Then

YouTube: @roundthebend574

Follow on Twitter: @roundthebend574

Follow on TikTok: @roundthebend574

For nearly 60 years, the Leeper Park Art Fair has brought artists, art lovers, and the community together beneath the trees of one of South Bend's most beautiful and historic parks.

In this episode, I sit down with Leeper Park Art Fair Coordinator Hedy Lane to explore the fair's origins, the people who helped build it into a nationally recognized event, and why artists and patrons continue returning year after year. You'll hear stories of artists from across the country, the connections formed between artists and visitors, the economic impact the fair brings to South Bend, and even the infamous "Toilet Paper Debacle" of 2021.

Whether you're a longtime attendee or have never visited before, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of South Bend's most cherished annual traditions.

The 2026 Leeper Park Art Fair takes place June 20–21. Learn more at https://leeperparkartfair.org/

Special thanks to our sponsors of this episode: Dan Berry Insurance, M/T Box Computers, and InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop.

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Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

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Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

__________________________________________________

Thank you to InRugCo Studio & Gift Shop for supporting the show! Stop in and browse a unique selection of gifts and locally inspired items! Learn more at https://indianarugco.com/ and be sure to check them out in person!

__________________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Twitter: @roundthebendpod

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

To contact the show, you can email at roundthebend574@gmail.com or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.

For decades, the massive Drewry’s Brewery complex on South Bend’s northwest side stood as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Long after production stopped, the towering brick buildings along Elwood Avenue remained a reminder of South Bend’s industrial past.

In this episode, I sit down with Drewry’s historian and collector Wes Weaver to uncover the incredible story behind the brewery. From its roots as the historic Muessel Brewery, to Prohibition era intrigue, Detroit organized crime connections, federal investigations, corporate mergers, and the eventual collapse of regional breweries - this is a fascinating dive into one of South Bend’s most iconic industrial giants.

A huge thanks to Wes for sharing his incredible research and passion for preserving brewery history. Be sure to check out Wes's article: Born in Canada, Built in Detroit, Brewed in South Bend. The Story of Drewrys Limited USA

Check out the Brewery Collectibles Club of America website: https://bcca.com/

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Big thank you to Dan Berry Insurance for supporting the show. I’ve trusted them for over 25 years - their customer service and commitment to our community truly stands out! Learn more at www.danberryinsurance.com.

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Special thanks to our friends at Allie's Cafe for supporting this episode of Round the Bend Now and Then! A River Park staple for 26 years, Allie’s is more than just a cafe - it’s family. Stop in, grab a breakfast burrito (my favorite), or check out their catering at https://www.alliescafe.com/ and tell them Round the Bend sent you!

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Thank you to M/T Box Computers for sponsoring this episode! Check out their website below to learn more about what they can do to fit your small business's technological needs! Did I mention that they're local?

https://www.mtboxcomputers.com/

_______________________________________________

ALL of our audio podcast episodes are also on YouTube! Check out our channel! Be sure to like and subscribe! Link below!

You Tube Link: https://youtube.com/@RoundtheBend574

Be sure to follow Round the Bend Now and Then on Twitter: @roundthebendpod

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roundthebendnowandthen

To contact the show, you can email at roundthebend574@gmail.com or message on Twitter or Facebook.

For current & historical pictures and commentary on the South Bend & Mishawaka area, follow @roundthebend574 on Twitter.