About Us

• “Unique” is simply the best way to describe this collection of one-of-a-kind antiques and treasures. Visitors agree that the Chalet of the Golden Fleece museum is a well kept secret. Visitors are amazed at the size of the collection within—a full three floors of painted furniture, antique silver and pewter, original artwork, paintings and etchings, samplers, prints, Swiss scissors cutting, quilts, fabrics, antique glass and china, coins, stamps, Swiss woodcarvings, Swiss dolls, and more! Items of special interest in the collection include a jeweled watch once owned by King Louis XVI, 2000-year-old Etruscan earrings, Gregorian chants on parchment— one of the oldest forms of written music—dating from 1485, 17th century Bolivian silvered gourd jewelry cases, a 300-year-old Swiss slate and wood inlaid table, and a Swiss porcelain tile stove made in 1760. The Chalet is an authentic copy of a Swiss Bernese mountain chalet. This design is characterized by a white plaster foundation and brown-stained wood walls. The intricately detailed woodwork in the interior pays tribute to Swiss woodworking craftsmanship. The flower boxes, in summer, overflow with geraniums—a Swiss favorite. The rocks and logs on the roof demonstrate how they are used in Switzerland to protect slate shingles from strong mountain winds. Edwin Barlow, New Glarus resident and founder of the Wilhelm Tell drama, built the Chalet in 1937 as his private residence. A world traveler, Barlow always returned with additions to his ever-expanding collection. Barlow donated the Chalet and collection to the Village of New Glarus, to be maintained as a public museum.