Craft Show & BBQ Brings Community Together to Support Granite City’s Oldest Landmark

GraniteCityGossip.com, September 22, 2025

On Saturday, September 20, the Old Six Mile Historical Society hosted a lively Craft Show and BBQ fundraiser to benefit the Old Six Mile Museum, located inside the historic Emmert-Zippel House at 3279 Maryville Road. The event drew neighbors, volunteers, and history lovers for a day filled with food, music, and hometown pride.

Guests enjoyed pork steaks, bratwurst, and a wide variety of homemade desserts, all served by dedicated society volunteers and featured local artisans who offered up their original, hand-crafted goods featuring a wide variety of items including holiday themed decor and countless treasures perfect for gifting, Live music filled the air thanks to Scott & Mechelle and Rick Roentz, who generously donated their time to support the museum’s mission.

Today, the Old Six Mile Museum is maintained solely through donations, fundraisers, and the tireless efforts of volunteers. One of the society’s most charming initiatives is its seasonal vegetable stand, stocked with fresh produce and flowers grown in the gardens behind the museum—planted, tended, and harvested all by volunteers who believe in preserving the past through hands-on care.

Thanks to the fundraising efforts of board member Nina Jackson, and a generous donation of paint and supplies secured by board member Mike Dixon from our local Sherwin-Williams, the museum is currently undergoing a much-needed exterior facelift. The Emmert-Zippel House, built in 1837, is a classic example of a mid-19th century I-house—a two-story, side-gabled structure with a central hallway, common in Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa during that era. Originally built by William Emmert, the home was passed on August and Elizabeth Zippel in 1884, remaining in the Zippel family for over a century. In 1996, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its architectural and historical significance. Thousands of residents drive past this beautiful home daily, unaware of its deep historical roots.

To continue supporting the museum, the society is currently raffling off a Cionko’s Meats Package valued at $500, with the drawing scheduled for November 3, 2025. They’re also hosting a Glow Bingo Night at the Granite City Eagles Club on Saturday, October 18. Tickets for both events are available by contacting Nina Jackson at 618-407-2101.
The Old Six Mile Historical Society is always welcoming new members and volunteers who share a passion for preserving Granite City’s heritage. Monthly meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at 6:30 PM at the museum. Our next meeting will be October 6, come join us!