Coming from Germany to Marysville in 1860, Charles F. Koester became one of the first bankers in town. In 1876 he built his family home'a showplace surrounded by trees, shrubs, and flower gardens. Cast iron lions and dogs still guard the Koester gates, and a dozen white bronze (zinc) statues (significant works of art made between 1880 and 1910) still adorn the front yard. Guided tours of the house, summer kitchen, icehouse, and carriage house provide the story of the entire Koester Block (NRHP).