Mission Statement
The Wayne County Historical Museum educates, promotes, collects, preserves, and interprets the rich heritage of Wayne County, Indiana and illustrates the county’s role in American and World Culture.
Our Museum
The Wayne County Historical Museum offers a distinctive collection that highlights both the history of Wayne County and diverse global cultures. Founded by Julia Meek Gaar, who traveled extensively and brought back artifacts to share with the children of Wayne County, the museum features items ranging from an Egyptian mummy to cultural treasures from Europe, Japan, the Middle East, and beyond. The museum invites visitors to explore a wide range of time periods and places.
As the museum’s first director, Mrs. Gaar carefully curated a collection that not only reflects the rich history of Wayne County but also highlights its connections to the broader world. The museum is housed across eight buildings, creating a unique space to explore Wayne County’s history, from early pioneer life to the Industrial Revolution and into modern times.
This gem of a museum is like a miniature Smithsonian, NY Metropolitan, and Williamsburg all rolled into one.
Bruce Sampsell, former president of Fisher Price Toys
Visit The General Store
Our General Store Gift Shop is open during regular business hours, there is never a charge to come in and shop. Museum Members receive 10% off of their purchase. Come in and see what’s new.
We appreciate our Grantors & Sponsors!
We love our Community Partners!
