Additional Coverage:
NAPPANEE, Ind. – Hoosier cabinets, once a staple in early 20th-century American kitchens, are being celebrated in a big way-literally. A massive, 30-foot-tall replica of a Dutch Kitchenette Hoosier cabinet has been unveiled outdoors in Nappanee, Indiana, honoring the iconic all-in-one kitchen workstation’s place in culinary history.
The towering model debuted last month as part of the 150th anniversary festivities for Coppes Napanee, one of the two remaining companies that originally produced these beloved cabinets over a century ago. The name “Hoosier cabinet” comes from the Hoosier Manufacturing Company, the largest producer during its heyday.
Visitors can climb stairs built into the replica to reach a loft, offering a unique vantage point over Coppes Commons-the site of the original Coppes Napanee factory, now transformed into a marketplace, artisan center, and museum. Coppes Napanee continues its tradition of craftsmanship by manufacturing custom cabinets next door.
Wesley Mast, president of Coppes Napanee, notes that reactions to the giant cabinet vary. Some ask, “Why build such a large cabinet?”
to which he responds simply, “Why not?” Others find the idea fascinating and applaud the creativity.
Mast believes the structure has boosted local branding and turned Nappanee into more than just a pass-through town.
The Hoosier cabinet was revolutionary for its time, combining kitchen storage and workspace into one freestanding piece of furniture. Popular from the 1890s through the 1930s, it helped streamline meal preparation before built-in cabinetry became standard after World War II. Mast describes it as “the kitchen” in one compact unit-a vital first piece of kitchen furniture for many households.
Mary Figueroa, curator of history at the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, explains that with some 5,000 dealers nationwide, the Hoosier cabinet replaced scattered shelves, tables, and cupboards, consolidating everything a cook needed within arm’s reach. Nicknamed “kitchen pianos,” these cabinets included features like built-in flour sifters and came with recipe booklets. Early advertising even claimed they could “strengthen your marriage” by saving time and effort in the kitchen.
Nappanee, located in Elkhart County about 150 miles north of Indianapolis, is better known for its recreational vehicle manufacturing and large Amish community. Now, with its colossal Hoosier cabinet, the town hopes to attract visitors interested in this unique piece of Americana.
As Figueroa puts it, “It’s bringing awareness. I mean, you can’t miss it.”