The Parsonage Resale Shop is a wonderfully unique place to discover that one perfect item that you didn’t know you were looking for. Every room in the house is bursting with items that are unusual, useful, simply gorgeous, elegant and just fun. We have household appliances, elegant tableware, vintage pieces, children’s toys, books, and, well you just have to stop by and see for yourself. We encourage you to stop by often as items come and go very fast.
During the season, The Parsonage Resale Shop is generally open daily from 12-4. However, off-season it is by appointment only. Please call Jodie 419-350-1082, Janet 419-746-2393, or Manager Sonia Taylor to schedule your visit.
The proceeds from The Parsonage Resale Shop contribute to the restoration projects of the Kelleys Island Historical Association and the repair and upkeep of the house.
A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT THE HOUSE
Visitors love looking at the house and imagining how it must have been to live with no indoor plumbing and an antiquated heating system. Be sure to check out the outhouse in the back yard.
The congregation of the German Reform Church built the Parsonage on land purchased for $51.00 from Mrs. Anne Twidney on August 8, 1888. By 1915 the island’s population, as well as the congregation, had dwindled and soon after could no longer support a resident minister. The Church’s trustees rented the house to the Betzenheimer family and they moved into the Parsonage in 1919, acting as caretakers for the church. Alvin Betzenheimer, and his siblings were all born in the Parsonage house. The family lived there all their lives until Florence Betzenheimer Mckillips moved out around 2010.
Florence Betzenheimer McKillips, fondly known as “Sis,” continued her mother Emma’s role of caring for the house and the German Reform Church next door even after both buildings became part of the Kelleys Island Historical Association in the 1980’s. The Association granted Mrs. McKillips use of the house until her death in 2013 at the age of 92.
