About the Passport
This guide was developed by the Northwest Ohio Cultural Heritage Group as a print guide to help you plan your day trips, scenic drives & long weekend trips throughout the 22 counties of Northwest Ohio represented in this book. It also features links to the various counties participating in America 250 celebrations. Follow the county link in the list on the right to view the sites, or you can use the Participant Index to skip the pages. The original Passport was designed by DGI Diversified Graphics in Tiffin, Ohio. You can follow the link below to open and download the PDF copy and print it for your personal use.
Passport 3rd edition, 2026 (PDF)
About the Passport Web version (2026)
The same information is presented in a Web-accessibile format with links to websites, emails, facebook pages (where provided), and maps to provide directions. Links and other infromation may change over time, so visitors are reminded to contact these organizations for up-to-date information (address, hours, events, and contacts).
About the Northwest Ohio Cultural Heritage Group
The Northwest Ohio Cultural Heritage Group (NWOCHG), formed in 2019, as a way for cultural heritage institutions in the northwest corner of the state to collaborate on potential projects as a whole, rather than disparate parts. Meeting twice a year (in the spring & in the fall) either virtually or at the various member locations, it consists of public libraries, academic libraries, special libraries, historical societies, museums, historical villages, presidential centers, and genealogical societies throughout Northwest Ohio. For more information on how to join the NWOCHG or be a participant in this passport, email
ALLEN COUNTY
Allen County Museum & Historical Society
620 W. Market St., Lima, OH 45801
Email:
Website: https://allencountymuseum.org/
Hours: Tues.–Fri., 1-5pm; Sat., 1-4pm; (Closed Sun. & Mon.) (Closed on major holidays)
The Allen County Museum & Historical Society includes the main museum, 1893 Victorian mansion/carriage house, 1848 log house, annex and storage building, which house a Shay Locomotive, Conestoga wagon and early buggies, milk wagon, 1909 Roadster, Model T, early firetrucks and more. As the only Ohio county museum accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the American Association of Museums, the museum cares for 200,000+ artifacts that tell the story of the region and Ohio, including the John H. Keller Railroad Archives & Elizabeth M. MacDonell Memorial Library.
Bluffton University’s Musselman Library
1 University Dr., Bluffton, OH 45817
Phone: 419-358-3275
Email:
Website: https://libguides.bluffton.edu/asc
Hours: by appt. Contact: Carrie Phillips, Library Director
Musselman Library’s Archives & Special Collections floor is home to rich historical collections important to the Bluffton University experience and supporting intellectual discovery of our students, faculty, staff and scholars from around the world. Located on the first floor of the 1965 addition to Musselman Library, this department houses all archival and special collections owned by Musselman Library, including our Mennonite Historical Collections, the Bluffton University Archives, the archives of the Central District Conference of Mennonite Church USA, manuscript collections, books, periodicals, and other library materials of rare and special importance to the institution and its constituents.
Delphos Canal Museum
241 N Main Street, Delphos OH 45833
Phone: 419-695-7737
Email:
Website: https://delphoscanalcommission.com/
Hours: Th., 9-Noon; Sat./Sun., 1-3pm; or by appointment
Located in downtown Delphos, the Canal Museum is 3 floors and 17,000 square feet of the history of Delphos and the surrounding area. Feature exhibits include the recovered hull of the 19th century canal boat Marguerite, a full-size replica of Leslie Peltier’s Merry Go Round Observatory and photos of Ida Holdgreve, head seamstress at the Wright Brothers Airplane Factory. The Museum is ADA-compliant, and admission is always free!!!
Swiss Community Historical Society
8350 Bixel Rd., Bluffton, OH 45817
Email:
Website: https://swisshistorical.org/
Hours: Tours may be arranged by emailing tour coordinator Susie Gratz at
The Swiss Community Historical Society honors & preserves the history of the Bluffton-Pandora community. The society owns and operates the Schumacher Homestead featuring period furniture, textiles, quilts, papers, books, artifacts and records of historical interest, as well as a house, barn, and outbuildings related to local Swiss heritage.
The Swiss Community Historical Society is nearing completion of the Swiss Heritage Center. The repurposed barn will serve as a museum with rotating displays, space for special workshops and programming, as well as an event center. It is heated and air-conditioned and includes a classroom, artifact storage space, and public restrooms. The facility will allow for longer visits during tours and events and eliminate weather restrictions on scheduling.
ASHLAND COUNTY
Ashland County Historical Society
420 Center St., Ashland, OH 44805
Phone: 419-289-3111
Email:
Website: https://www.ashlandhistory.org/
Hours: Tues.-Fri., 10am–3pm; Open the first Sat. of each month
A complete tour brings you through 3 multi-story buildings on our main campus. These buildings consist of a late 1800sstreetscape, veterans exhibit, sports hall of fame, natural history, Ashland manufacturing exhibit, and an 1800s Victorian Manor House. A recent addition to the Historical Society, also open for tours, is the Freer Children’s Home, built in the 1800s.
Cleo Redd Fisher Museum
203 E. Main St., Loudonville, OH 44842
Phone: 419-994-4050
Email:
Website:https://www.crfmuseum.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CRFMuseum/
Hours: (Free admission) Mon.–Fri.,10am–4pm; Select weekends or by appointment. Limited staff Mon.-Fri.; hours based on availability. Calling ahead is encouraged.
From folk heroes to famous inventors, the Mohican area’s past is full of colorful characters and amazing stories: inventors who revolutionized the way we live, entertainers who wowed royalty, explorers who braved the frontier, and industries that became icons of their time. The CRF Museum tells these stories and more through period displays interactive exhibits also operates the historic Workman Cabin, built in 1838 in Central Park. The cabin was home to Morgan and Jerutia Workman and their 12 children, serving not only as their residence but also a wayward inn and a Dunkard church.
CRAWFORD COUNTY
Crestline Historical Society & Museum
400 Scott St., Crestline, OH 44827
Phone: 419-683-3410
Email:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrestlineOhioHistoricalSociety
Handicapped accessible & free parking on an historic brick road
Hours: 2–4pm, Sat./Sun., on the 1st and 3rd full weekends. Groups and special tours are by appointment and are fee based
In more than 15 exhibits, journey through the history of this 1851 railroad town and find out how it played an important part in the expansion of the Midwest. Being the crossroad for the Big Four railways, Crestline was visited by many important figures. Displays include railroad, military, antiques, fossils, sports memorabilia (signed helmet by Super Bowl Coach Harbaugh), the impressive 36-foot 1903 mahogany and stained-glass pharmacy unit that once graced Cedar Point Town Hall, and more. While in Crestline, also enjoy the historic buildings, old-fashioned ice cream stands, diners, family parks, pool, and passing trains.
Galion History Center
201 S. Union St., Galion, OH 44833
Phone: 419-468-9338
Email:
Website: https://www.galionhistory.com/
Hours: Tues. & Th., 9am-2pm
The Galion History Center is a historic campus located at the intersection of W. Walnut St. & South Union St. in Galion, OH. Our campus features Brownella Cottage (1887), the Historic Grace Church (1875), the Koppe-Skinner Home (c.1863), the Galion History Museum, and the Hayden-Helfrich Annex Museum.
DEFIANCE COUNTY
Andrew L. Tuttle Memorial Museum
514 W. Third Street, Defiance, OH 43512
Phone: 419-782-0746
Email:
Website: https://cityofdefiance.com/327/Andrew-L-Tuttle-Memorial-Museum
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TuttleMuseum/
Hours: Thu., 10am–4pm; First Sun. of the month, 1-4pm (Closed holidays) Also open by appointment; call to arrange a visit.
The Andrew L. Tuttle Memorial Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the City of Defiance & the surrounding area. Andrew L. Tuttle, a lifelong resident of Defiance,
Ohio bequeathed his extensive collection of Native American artifacts, coins, documents, stamps, military memorabilia, and other artifacts to the city of Defiance with the stipulation a museum would be established in his name. The Tuttle, as the museum has been nicknamed, officially opened to the public in May 2011. The exhibits change regularly so there’s always something new to see.
Defiance County Historical Society
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 801, Defiance OH 43512
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/defiancecountyhistoricalsociety
Auglaize Village
12296 Krouse Road, Defiance, OH 43512
Phone: 419-990-0107
Email:
Website: https://www.auglaizevillage.org/
Hours: Tues., generally 7:30am–2:30pm, with volunteers available to provide the tours. Also open during events listed on the website: The Johnny Appleseed Festival is our biggest event the first weekend in October.
A project of the Defiance County Historical Society, the village holds a group of restored buildings typical of rural northwest Ohio in the 1800s. Originated in 1966, the red barn, now the Mansfield Museum, was the only building on this site. Over 50 years later, take step back into the past and stroll through the 22 restored buildings, 4 farm museums, military museum, natural history museum, model railroad museum, operating sawmill, and railroad train rides that encircle the Village.
ERIE COUNTY
Erie County Historical Society (virtual)
Email:
Website: https://eriecountyohiohistory.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OhioECHS/
Established in 1955, the mission of the Erie County Historical Society is to tell the remarkable story of Erie County, Ohio, to residents and visitors. We work to share the history of this area, answer questions, and promote our incredible historical sites and our many historical museums through Facebook and our extensive website.
Kelley’s Island Historical Association
224 Division St, Kelleys Island, OH 43438
Phone: 419-746-2399
Email:
Website: https://kelleysislandhistorical.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KelleysIslandHist/
The museum tells the story of Kelleys Island and has a small gift shop and a large resale shop on site. Find us on Facebook at Kelleys Island History Museum.
Sandusky Library/Follett House Museum
114 W. Adams St., Sandusky, OH 44870
Ron Davidson, Special Collections Librarian,
Phone: 419-625-3834
Email:
Website: https://www.sanduskylib.org/follett-house-museum/
Hours: Mon.-Th., 9am-8pm & Fri./Sat., 9am-5pm
Museum: 404 Wayne St. (Corner of Wayne & Adams Streets) For museum tours & information contact Jeremy Angstadt, Museum Services Manager,
The Sandusky Library and its Follett House Museum branch hold significant collections of original documents and artifacts describing the history of the Firelands region. The library’s Archives Research Center holds a significant collection of photographs, records, and papers that record the history of the community. The Follett House Museum interprets local history through exhibits in a historic house. Public presentations on local history topics, at the library and in the community, and on social media platforms, provide additional outlets for those interested in the community’s history.
Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum
9 N Edison Dr, Milan, OH 44846
Email:
Website: https://www.tomedison.org/
Hours: Feb.-Dec. Guided one-hour tours through the home. See website for tours.
Thomas Alve Edison, inventor of the phonograph, the incandescent light bulb, and many other devices that make our lives fuller and simpler, was born in Milan, OH, in 1847. Edison Birthplace Museum was opened by his wife, Mina, and his daughter, Madeleine, as a tribute to the humble beginnings of a great man. It features a collection of rare Edisonia, including examples of many of Edison’s early inventions, documents, and family mementos. Maintained by the Edison Birthplace Association, Inc., this National Historic Site is the only Edison site to have family involved including great-grandchildren, a great-great-great- great niece on the Board and a great-great-great nephew as President.
FULTON COUNTY
Museum & Welcome Center of Fulton County
8848 State Hwy. 108, Wauseon, OH 43567
Phone: 419-337-7922
Email:
Website: https://www.museumoffultoncounty.org/
Hours: Mon.–Sat.,10am–4pm & Sun., noon–4pm between Memorial Day & Labor Day; (Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day
Sauder Village
22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502
Historic Village
Email:
Website: https://saudervillage.org/
Hours: Open May – October
As Ohio’s largest living historic museum, Sauder Village is a walk-through time from 1803- 1920s. Explore historic homes & shops, working craftsman plus our farms & gardens.
HANCOCK COUNTY
Findlay-Hancock County Public Library Local & Family History Collection
206 Broadway, Findlay, OH 45840
Phone: 419-422-1712, ext. 146
Email:
Website: https://www.findlaylibrary.org/geno
Hours: Mon.-Th., 9am-8pm; Fri./Sat., 9am–5pm; Sun., 1-5pm
Serving the community since 1890, our collection includes many Hancock County school yearbooks, local government/church records, donated family history books and files, general reference books, a circulating book collection, and nearly 175 years of local newspapers on microfilm (some of which are available in digitized form). Reproductions of 6 historic Hancock County/Findlay maps are also displayed, and we offer access to a number of databases including African American Heritage, Ancestry Library Edition, Fold3, Newspaper Archive (Findlay, OH newspapers), Ohio Memory, and Sanborn Maps. We also have a microfilm reader, 2 microfilm reader-printers, public computers, and a color scanner/photocopier/printer.
Hancock Historical Museum
422 W. Sandusky St., Findlay, OH 44840
Phone: 419-423-4433
Email:
Website: https://www.hancockhistoricalmuseum.org/
Hours: Wed.–Fri., 10am–4pm & Sun., 1 – 4 pm.
The Hancock Historical Museum is a privately funded, non-profit history museum founded in 1970 by 5 local civic leaders: Harold Corbin, Jack Harrington, Ed Heminger, Jim Brucklacher, & Joe Opperman. These 5 men had the foresight to create a place to preserve and share our local history. Over the years, the museum’s role in the community has grown significantly, and the museum’s campus has extended to include 9 buildings!
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc.
12505 County Road 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Phone: 419-423-2995
Email:
Website: https://www.nworrp.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nworrp
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc. is a museum devoted to the preservation, promotion, and education of our railroad history in northwest Ohio. Our diverse interests include operating model train layouts and displays, quarter scale train operations, full-size train displays, and displays of railroad memorabilia. We are an all-volunteer organization that relies on the hard work of our members; the proceeds from special events held at the museum fund our operations and make improvements and additions to our museum facilities and displays.
The University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum
201 College St, Findlay, OH 45840
Phone: 419-434-4560
Email:
Website: https://www.mazzamuseum.org/
Hours: Wed. – Fri., Noon – 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 – 4 p.m.
The Mazza Museum, founded in 1982, is the first and largest museum dedicated to original art from picture books. It inspires a love of reading and learning by celebrating illustrations from children’s books and, through engaging exhibits, programs, and events, connects families, educators, and learners of all ages with the power of creativity and storytelling.
HARDIN COUNTY
Hardin County Historical Museums, Inc.
223 N. Main St., Kenton, OH 43326
Phone: 419-673-7147
Email:
Website: https://www.hardinmuseums.org/
Hours: Tues.-Th., 1–4pm (Closed Jan.-March)
The Hardin County Museum is located in a home built in 1896 and contains the history of Hardin County and its people. We are the home of the first Medal of Honor, Kenton Cast Iron Toys, artwork by Fred Machetanz and much much more!
HENRY COUNTY
Four Corners Heritage Center
7051 County Road M, Grelton, OH 43523
Mailing address: PO Box 23044, Grelton, OH 43523
Phone: 419-966-1648 (Peggy Bohls); 419-591-9967 (Bernie Dawson)
Email:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Four-Corners-Heritage-Center-100063558219748/
Hours: 2nd Sun., May–Dec., noon-4pm or during special & by appointment
You’re invited to appreciate history, save it and celebrate with us at this historic country gem. The structure used to be a Methodist Episcopal Church built around 1890 & is located on road M, west of road 7, in Grelton. It’s filled with many educational, inspirational and fun artifacts from around Henry County.
Henry County Historical Society
229 W. Clinton St.,Napoleon, OH 43545
Phone: 419-592-8006
Website: https://henrycountyhistory.org/
Historic Complex at the Henry County Fairgrounds
821 S. Perry St. • Napoleon, OH 43545
Phone: 419-592-9096
Email:
Website: https://henrycountyfairgrounds.com/
Hours: By appointment
The Henry County Historical Society formed in 1970 to protect, preserve, perpetuate, learn and generate interest in the history of Henry County, Ohio. Today, it operates 2 historic museum sites in Napoleon, OH: the Historic Complex at the Henry County Fairgrounds (containing the Nathaniel Hartman Log Home c. 1860-1866, 1897 Emmanuel Lutheran One Room Schoolhouse and Museum, Ag Building, Smokehouse, and c. 1910 Historic Gazebo), and the 1894 Victorian Queen Anne style Dr. John Bloomfield Home and Carriage House Museum (across from the Napoleon Public Library, which serves as the main museum for the HCHS). All facilities have been restored to their near-original appearance and house large collections of period furnishings, textiles, china, silver, and more dating from the early 1800s-1930s.
Liberty Center Public Library
124 East St., Liberty Center, OH 43532
Phone: 419-533-5721
Email:
Website: https://www.libertycenterlibrary.org/
Hours: Mon./Tues., & Th. 9am–7pm; Wed. & Fri, 9am–4pm; Sat., 9am–3pm
The Liberty Center Public Library is located in downtown Liberty Center and is the focal point of the town! We offer many resources to our patrons and are always striving to bring new things to our library for the good of our patrons.
Malinta Community Historical Society
112 North Henry Street, Malinta, OH 43535
Phone: 419-966-1648 (Peggy Bohls); 419-256-6205 (Brent Ehlers)
Email:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Malinta-Community-Historical-Society-100064477728581/
Hours: 4th Sun., June–Oct., 1-4pm or during special events (Malinta Fest Saturday, July 13th 10am-4pm) & by appointment
This museum railroad site connects the 21st century to our local heritage. Enjoy a glimpse of what life was like on the railroad. The restored 1885 Nickelplate Railroad Depot, a DT & I caboose, and a maintenance shanty, are filled with artifacts relating to the railroad and community history.
HURON COUNTY
Bellevue Historical Society
108 Northwest St, Bellevue, OH 44811
Phone: 567-228-0833
Email:
Website: https://bellevuehistoricalsociety.com/
The Bellevue Historical Society is dedicated to preserving items relating to the growth and development of Bellevue in order to promote interest in Bellevue’s rich history. Presently, the Society is renovating the historic Tremont House, built in 1846, which will serve as a museum dedicated to Bellevue’s history. Work is ongoing, so the museum is not yet open for viewing but will hopefully be completed by 2025. The Tremont House is located at 101 East Main Street, Bellevue.
Huron County Community Library
Website: https://www.huroncolib.org/
Willard Memorial Library (opened in 1921)
6 W. Emerald Street, Willard, OH 44890
Phone: 419-933-8564
Hours: Mon., Tues./Th., 9am-8pm; Wed. & Fri., 9am-5pm; Sat., 10am-2pm
Wakeman Branch (opened in 1954)
33 Pleasant Street, Wakeman, OH 44889
Phone: 440-839-2976
Hours: Mon. & Th., 10am-7pm; Tues., /Wed., Fri., 10am-5pm; Sat., 10am-2pm
Greenwich Branch (opened in 1936)
4 New Street, Greenwich, OH 44837
Phone: 419-752-7331
Hours: Mon. & Wed. 10am-7pm; Tues., Th./Fri., 10am-5pm; Sat. 10am-2pm
North Fairfield Branch (opened in 1937)
5 East Main Street, North Fairfield, OH 44855
Phone: 419-744-2285
Hours: Mon., 10am-7pm; Tues./Wed., Fri., 10am-5pm; (Closed Th. & Sat.)
Huron County Community Library offers services, programs and collections benefiting all ages, including books, ebooks, DVDs, computers, WiFi, faxing, copying, laminating, help with e-readers/tablets, Golden Buckeye card applications, voter registrations and absentee ballot applications. When it opened, the main library, dedicated to the memory of servicemen and those who died in WWI, was housed on the second floor of the Willard City Hall. In the 1930s the Ohio General Assembly passed legislation which established the Willard Memorial Library as a school district library. It was given county extension status in 1935 to service any area of the county not already served by a library. The present library building opened April 4, 1965. The addition to the original building was dedicated April 2, 1995. A bond levy passed in 2014, and renovations began in 2015 to update and redesign the Willard Memorial Library.
New London Area Historical Society
13 E. Main St., New London OH 44851
Phone: 419-750-4061, 419-929-6607
Email:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/New-London-Area-Historical-Society-100057406190234/
Hours: Sat., 1-4pm & other times by appointment
The New London Area Historical Society operates a store-front museum in downtown New London which offers two floors of displays on the southeastern corner of the Firelands. We emphasize local businesses, schools, railroads (NYC, ACY), industries (CE Ward Co., Ohio Body), and early families. Our library contains local newspapers, histories, scrapbooks, diaries, and village records.
LUCAS COUNTY
Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commissio
n
All parks are managed by Metroparks Toledo and are open daily,
Email: https://www.fallentimbersbattlefield.org/contact-us/
Website: http://www.fallentimbersbattlefield.org
Hours: 7am-Dark, daily (free admission). Virtual tours for all 3 locations and special events provided by the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commission
Fallen Timbers Battlefield National Historic Site
4949 Jerome Road, Maumee, OH 43537
The Fallen Timbers Battlefield National Historic Site is the serene and pristine site of one of the top three battlefields in the United States, saved from development by preservation efforts spearheaded by the Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commission. In the 1794 Fallen Timbers Campaign, General Anthony Wayne led the U.S. Legion, Kentucky Militia and Choctaw and Chickasaw Tribes against a Native confederation of tribes led by Chiefs Blue Jacket, Little Turtle and Tarhe, among others, and British/Canadian Militia. The final battle took place near present-day Maumee, OH on Aug. 20, 1794, and the Legion forces prevailed, leading to the signing of the Treaty of Greenville and bringing peace to the Ohio frontier that would last for over a decade.
Fort Miamis National Historic Site
4010 Michigan Street, Maumee, OH 43537
The Fort Miamis National Historic Site is the location of a British fort built on the banks of the Maumee River just prior to the Battle of Fallen Timbers in August 1794. The fort was besieged by General Anthony Wayne and his forces following the Battle, leading to a historic stand- off with British forces trapped inside. The Fort was also instrumental to British/Native forces in the siege of Fort Meigs during the War of 1812. Portions of the earthworks that supported the fort are still present today.
Fallen Timbers Monument Site
5601 Anthony Wayne Trail, Maumee, OH 43537 via Fallen Timbers Lane
The Fallen Timbers Monument site, overlooking the beautiful and historic Maumee River, contains memorials dedicated to all combatants who participated in this important battle. The site is also connected by a bike and pedestrian bridge from the Fallen Timbers Battlefield National Historic Site.
Heritage Sylvania
5717 Main St., Sylvania, OH 43560
Phone: 419-517-5533
Email: https://heritagesylvania.org/about-us/contact-us/
Website: https://heritagesylvania.org/
Heritage Sylvania brings history to life across three unique sites. Step into the Lathrop House, the only Underground Railroad station in Northwest Ohio open to the public, explore the Historical Village with its original and replica 19th-century buildings, and tour the Cooke-Kuhlman Home, the early 20th-century home and office of Dr. Uriah Cooke and his family. Through hands-on programs, interactive exhibits, and special events, we create meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity and connect people of all ages to Sylvania’s rich history.
Holy Toledo History Tours, Inc. (a virtual museum)
Email: https://www.holytoledohistory.com/contact
Website: https://www.holytoledohistory.com/
Immerse yourself in the Toledo story and make your memories in the Glass City with any of our self-guided GPS audio tours. Explore Northwest Ohio history, from Fallen Timbers and the Northwest Indian War to the Unholy Toledo gangster era. Our self-guided audio tours can be enjoyed while walking or driving, on your own, or with a group. Each tour covers many of the area’s noteworthy landmarks, famous people, and stories of our exciting past. Join your host, award-winning author Tedd Long, for an immersive experience. Each tour is like a moving podcast—focused on our fascinating local history.
Maumee Valley Historical Society, Wolcott House Heritage Center
1035 River Rd., Maumee OH 43537
Phone: 419-893-9602
Email:
Website: https://www.wolcotthouse.org/
Hours: (Museum) April-Dec., Sat. only 11am-1:30pm; Group Tours by appointment
The Wolcott House Heritage Center will enhance the knowledge of the Maumee Valley through inclusive storytelling ensuring visitors are inspired to learn about everyday life in 19th Century Ohio.
National Museum of the Great Lakes
1701 Front St., Toledo, OH 43605
Phone: 419-214-5000
Email:
Website: https://nmgl.org/
Hours: Mon.–Sat., 10am-5pm; Sun., noon–5pm. The last time to board the Schoonmaker is 4 pm. (Museum closed on Tuesdays November - April). Museum is closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, & New Year’s Eve.; Col. James M. Schoonmaker & Tug Ohio are open May - October.
Explore the National Museum of the Great Lakes, where nine immersive galleries, hundreds of artifacts, two historic ships, and ever-changing exhibits invite you to trace centuries of culture, exploration, industry, innovation, recreation, and shipwreck stories along Toledo’s waterfront.
Toledo-Lucas Public Library Main Branch
325 Michigan St., Toledo, OH 43604
Phone: 419-259-5200
Email:
Website: https://www.toledolibrary.org/localhistory/
Hours: Mon.–Th., 9am-8:30pm; Fri./Sat., 9am–5:30pm; (Closed on Sunday)
The Main Branch of the Toledo Lucas County Public Library is famously home to several historic vitrolite glass murals depicting scenes of art and innovation in the Art Deco style. The branch also features permanent exhibits dedicated to Nancy Drew and Dr. Seuss, sculptures by Dale Chihuly, and hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year. Check toledolibrary.org for the most up-to-date information on exhibits and events occurring at Main Library.
Toledo History Museum
425 N St Clair St, Toledo, OH 43604 (in the Valentine Building)
Phone: 419-215-2437
Email:
Website: https://toledohistorymuseum.org/
Hours: Sat., noon-5pm; Sun., 1-5pm
The Toledo History Museum is a nonprofit membership organization which cares for, showcases, interprets and shares authentic pieces of Toledo and U.S. history to tell the story of Toledo and its people. Our goal is to help our community build a sense of excitement for local history and stewardship of our legacy for generations to come by offering programs, exhibitions, publications and digital media that are accessible to all. Our research volunteers serve people from throughout the U.S. each year, from schoolchildren working on history projects to PhD students writing dissertations to filmmakers researching documentaries.
Toledo Police Museum
2201 Kenwood Blvd, Toledo, OH 43606 (in scenic Ottawa Park)
Phone: 419-720-2485
Email:
Website: https://www.toledopolicemuseum.com/
Hours: Sat., 10am-4pm, with the exception of holiday weekends. For group tours, please send an email request to
Toledo’s Attic (a virtual museum and service of the Ward M. Canaday Center, University of Toledo Libraries)
Phone: 419-530-4497
Email:
Webite: https://toledosattic.org
Launched in 1997, Toledo’s Attic is a virtual museum focusing on the commercial, industrial, and social history of Toledo, Northwest Ohio, and the Maumee Valley from the late 19th through the late 20th centuries. It features historical essays, research articles (in Northwest Ohio History), photo galleries, interactive media, videos, virtual exhibitions, and other resources intended for teaching, research, and preparing students for Ohio History Day and other events. Toledo’s Attic continues to invite contributions of historical essays and photographs related to regional history within its original scope.
Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections
University of Toledo Libraries
2801 W. Bancroft St., MS-509, Toledo, OH 43606
5th floor, William S. Carlson Library
Phone: 419-530-4480
Email:
Website: https://www.utoledo.edu/library/canaday/
Hours: We accept research appointments Mon.-Fri., 8am-4:15pm (closed at noon for lunch).
The Ward M. Canaday Center for Special Collections serves as the institutional memory of the University of Toledo as well as the repository for the personal and organizational records of the people and industries of Toledo and Northwest Ohio, with particular focus on the glass industry and disability history.
Waterville Historical Society
401 Farnsworth Road, Waterville, OH, 43566
Phone: 419-265.4871 (Wakeman Archival Research Center)
Email:
Website: https://www.watervillehistory.org/
The Waterville Historical Society collects, preserves, provides access to, interprets and fosters an appreciation of history that has an impact on the Waterville, Ohio and surrounding area.
MARION COUNTY
Marion County Historical Society
Heritage Hall (Wyandot Popcorn Museum)
169 E. Church St. Marion, OH 43302
Phone: 740-387-4255
Email:
Website: https://www.marionhistory.com/
Hours: Wed.–Sun., 1-4pm (May-Oct.); Sat./Sun., 1-4pm (Nov.) (Closed Dec.–April); Other times by appointment only
Marion’s “Old Post Office,” Heritage Hall, a National Register building, is the Society’s Headquarters & Museum and houses an extensive collection of memorabilia representing the citizens, industries, and ideals, including the Mary Ellen Withrow collection. Mary Ellen, a Marion County native, was the 40th Treasurer of the United States and the only person to have held the post of Treasurer at the local, state, and national levels. She is a Guinness Book of World Records holder for having her signature on more currency than anyone. The Wyandot Popcorn Museum, the only popcorn museum globally, is located within Heritage Hall under a colorful circus tent with the most extensive collection of popcorn wagons and peanut roasters in the USA, dating back to the turn of the century and restored to original condition.
Marion Palace Theatre
Phone: 740-383-2101
Email:
Website: https://www.marionpalace.org/
Box Office Hours: Mon./Tues., Th./Fri., 9am-5pm.
Built in 1928 by renowned theatre architect John Eberson, this fully operational atmospheric theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the League of Historic American Theatres and the Ohio Arts Professionals Network. Each year, the Palace presents a wide variety of live performances and films with widespread appeal and “something for everyone.”
Marion Women’s Club & Home
1126 E. Center St., Marion, OH 43302
Phone: 740-387-1366
Email:
Website: https://marionwomensclub.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themarionwomensclub/
Open House & Narrated Tours with costumed characters.
An iconic 1903 Colonial Revival property, the Marion Women’s Club Home is on the National Register of Historic Places and the Ohio History Connection’s “Remarkable Ohio.” Bequeathed to the Marion Women’s Club in 1945 by Club Activist Ida Barlow (and her husband, Shauck), the home features stately columns, a sprawling curved front porch, and three floors of exquisite craftsmanship. Today, club members are working to preserve and restore the home rich with history, passion, and stories found in the Club’s rich archives, which date to its formation in 1895.
OUR MISSION: “Empowering women and enriching the community, while preserving the historic home and promoting the club’s legacy.”
Warren G. Harding Presidential Sites
Phone: 800-600-6894
Website: https://hardingpresidentialsites.org/
Hours: See the website for an interactive calendar allowing advance ticket purchases and information about special activities and changes in operational hours or call for hours of operation and ticket information.
The Warren G. Harding Presidential Sites consists of the newly built Harding Presidential Library & Museum, the newly restored Harding Home and the Harding Memorial Presidential Gravesite. The presidential library is the hub of the site and is where visitors go to purchase tickets. Visitors can then visit the library’s exhibit gallery, view films and browse the gift shop. The Harding Home is available only by guided tours. The Harding Memorial, 898 Delaware Ave., is 1.5 miles from the presidential library and is available from dawn to dusk.
MERCER COUNTY
Fort Recovery Museum & Monument
An Ohio History Connection site.
1 Fort Site St, Fort Recovery, OH 45846
Website: https://fortrecoverymuseum.com/fort-recovery-historical-society-museum-home
Phone: 419- 375 4649
Hours: May, Sat./Sun., 11am-4pm; June-Aug., Wed.-Sun., 11am–4pm Sept. & Oct., Sat./Sun., 11am–4pm (Closed all federal holidays)
Fort Recovery is the site of 2 remarkable Northwest Indian War battles: the 1791 victory of 9 American Indian tribes, led by Mihšihkinaahkwa (Little Turtle, Miami) and Weyapiersenwah (Blue Jacket, Shawnee) over General Arthur St. Clair’s forces; and the
1794 victory of General Anthony Wayne’s army over a larger alliance of American Indian tribes. These events were pivotal in setting the stage for the 1795 Treaty of Greenville, after which American Indians relinquished most of their land holdings in Ohio. And set the course for the 1830 Indian Removal Act, which forcibly removed American Indians from their Ohio homelands.
Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics
2291 St. Johns Rd., Maria Stein, OH 45860
Phone: 419-925-4532
Email:
Website: https://mariasteinshrine.org/
Hours: Mon.-Th., 9:30am-6pm, Fri./Sat., 9:30am-4pm, Sun., noon-4pm
The Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics, situated on nearly 30 acres of peaceful rolling grounds, is home to one of the largest documented Holy Relic Collections in the USA and the epicenter of the historical Land of the Cross-Tipped Churches. The Shrine houses over 1,200 relics of the Saints and 5 relics of the True Cross. The Shrine’s religious, genealogical, cultural, and architectural history is of interest to visitors from throughout the world. Pilgrims are encouraged to explore the grounds, appreciate the beautiful architecture, stroll along sacred paths, and enjoy an environment of serenity and solitude.
Mercer County District Library
Langsdon Mineral Collection
303 N. Main St., Celina, OH 45822
Email:
Website: https://www.langsdonminerals.org/
Hours: Winter (Labor Day–Memorial Day): Mon–Fri., 9am-8pm; Sat., 9am-5pm; (Closed Sun.)
Summer: (Memorial Day–Labor Day): Mon./Tues., 9am-6pm; Wed., 9am-8pm; Th./Fri., 9am-6pm; Sat., 9am-5pm; (Closed Sun.)
In 2006, Ron and Ruth Langsdon donated a substantial part of their personal rare mineral collection to the Mercer County Library in order for future generations to learn and enjoy. They felt a public library would be an ideal location for all present and future generations. The collection consists of more than 900 minerals from all over the world in 21 display cases and is available for public viewing during regular library hours. You can also schedule an interactive group tour by emailing:
MORROW COUNTY
Morrow County History Center
17 West High St., Mt. Gilead, OH 43338
Email:
Website: https://morrowcountyhistoricalsociety.com/index.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morrowcountyhistoricalsociety.org
Hours: Sun., 2-4pm; April-Nov. (special tours with prior arrangements) Free admission; donations appreciated
The History Center, a former bank building located on the square in downtown Mount Gilead, is one of 3 buildings operated by the Morrow County Historical Society and houses our main collection, which includes a cannon, pottery display of items produced in the county prior to 1941, military display, & other rotating exhibits. The Cross House (open to the public during special events), constructed in 1829, is the last of 5 framed structures built in the village. The Garverick Log House, built prior to 1850 and originally located in the northern part of the county, is open for Farm Days and the Morrow County Fair. In the mid-1980s, it was tagged, disassembled, transported and reassembled at the Morrow County Fairgrounds with furnishings reflecting the mid-1800s.
OTTAWA COUNTY
Catawba Island Historical Society
5258 E Porter St, Port Clinton, OH 43452 (on Catawba Island)
Mail: P.O. Box 396, Port Clinton, Ohio 43452
Phone: 419.967.5363
Email:
Web: https://catawbaislandhistoricalsociety.com/
HOURS: Monday | 10 am - 4 pm; Wednesday | 10 am - 4 pm; Thursday | 10 am - 4 pm; 2nd & 4th Saturday | 10 am - 4 pm
Our mission is to educate and inspire by collecting, preserving, and displaying artifacts from Catawba Island's rich history.
Lake Erie Islands Historical Society
443 Catawba Ave, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
Phone: (419) 285-2804
Email:
Website: https://www.leihs.org/
Open Daily May to September: 11 am - 5 pm Daily.
Off Season Hours Subject to Change. Check for availability by appointment by calling Kendra Koehler at 419-341-2725.
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum has exhibits on island history, the wine making industry, Put-in-Bay's Victorian hotels, the ice industry, the island road races, The Ford Tri-Motor "Tin Goose" airplane, and a collection of historic souvenirs.
Lakeside Chautauqua
236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside, OH 43440
Phone: 419-798-4461
Email: https://lakesideohio.com/contact/
Website: https://lakesideohio.com/
For more than 150 years, Lakeside Chautauqua has welcomed families to the Lake Erie shore to take part in a summer Chautauqua experience dedicated to nurturing mind, body and spirit. Lakeside Chautauqua is an historic community in Ohio offering an abundance of spiritual opportunities, educational lectures, cultural arts performances and recreational activities during its 14-week summer programming season. It is also a year-round destination for groups of all sizes.
Lakeside Heritage Society
210 Walnut Ave., Lakeside, OH 43440
Phone: 419-798-5591
Email:
Website: https://www.lakesideheritagesociety.org/
Archives hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day, Mon.-Sat., 10am-4pm Sept.-May, Tues. & Th., 10am-1pm or by appointment
Heritage Hall Museum
238 Maple Ave., Lakeside, OH 43440
Museum hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day, Tues.-Sun., 10am-4:30pm (Closed Sept.– May)
Lakeside is a gated community with admission fees for entry. For information about admission & parking please visit lakesideohio.com.) For more information about walking tours, programs & our most up- to-date hours of operation, please call or visit our website.
Lakeside Heritage Society (LHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting and advancing the history of Lakeside, the Marblehead Peninsula and the Chautauqua Movement in America. The LHS Archives’ manuscript, photograph, and library collections are open to the public for personal and academic research. Located in Lakeside’s original Methodist Episcopal Chapel built in 1875, the Heritage Hall Museum features a variety of local history exhibits. Scavenger hunts are also available for children of all ages.
Ottawa County Historical Society
Wolcott Keeper’s House
9999 E. Bayshore Rd., Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: 419-798-9339
Email:
Website: https://ottawacountyhistory.org/
Hours: Summer season docent-led tours of house by the Ottawa County Historical Society with museum and gift shop open during the summer. Visit the Society’s website for summer season hours. Group tours by appointment.
Home of Benajah and Rachel Wolcott, first keepers of the Marblehead Lighthouse. This is the oldest surviving home in Ottawa County. Built in 1822 of limestone from local quarries, it was the permanent home of the first three lighthouse keepers for the Marblehead Lighthouse.
Ottawa County Museum
126 W 3rd St, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Phone: 419-732-2237
Email:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ottawa-County-Museum/100057542976255/
“Preserving our Past for Future Generations.” The Ottawa County Museum, showcases the history of Ottawa County. It was established in 1979 by the Port Clinton Area Heritage Foundation to preserve and collect records and artifacts pertinent to the development of Ottawa County, to provide educational information and to create a lasting memory for future generations to study. This small museum features displays about the area. Hours are limited, so please call first.
Schedel Arboretum & Gardens
19255 W Portage River South Rd, Elmore, OH 43416
Phone: 419-862-3182
Email: https://www.schedel-gardens.org/directions-and-contact.html
Website: https://www.schedel-gardens.org/
This 17-acre garden estate features an amazing collection of rare trees, unusual plants, themed gardens, more than 24 outdoor sculptures and impeccably manicured grounds. The 1881 manor house is home to the Blair Museum of Lithophanes, the largest collection in the world. These 19th century three- dimensional, translucent porcelain treasures reveal detailed images when backlit (exhibit rotates annually.) Indoor art exhibits are featured in the Brown Welcome Center & rotate throughout the season.
RICHLAND COUNTY
Ohio Genealogical Society
Samuel D. Isaly Library
611 State Rte 97 W, Bellville, OH 44813
Phone: 419-886-1903
Email:
Website: https://www.ogs.org/
Hours: Tues.–Sat., 9am-5pm (closed major holidays)
The Ohio Genealogical Society Library invites family and local historians to explore its collection of over 60,000 books. We have extensive sections on Ohio local history, yearbooks, city and county directories, Bible records, family history, military, Native American and African American, and non-US, especially those states and countries that were home to Ohio’s pioneers.
SANDUSKY COUNTY
Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums
Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420
Phone: 800-998-7737
Email: https://www.rbhayes.org/forms/contact-us/
Website: https://www.rbhayes.org/
Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @rbhayespres
Hours: Open year-round. For specific hours & to schedule events, visit rbhayes.org (*All facilities are closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day & Easter.)
Visit President Rutherford and First Lady Lucy Hayes’ 25-acre wooded estate of Spiegel Grove, home of America’s first presidential library. Tour the couple’s 31-room Victorian mansion, see their tomb, visit the museum, explore the library and walk the mile of paved trails. Special events are offered throughout the year. The entrance to the Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is on Buckland Avenue. Our facility consists of two buildings, the Hayes Home & Hayes Museum.
Sandusky County Park District, Creek Bend Farm & Wilson Nature Center
720 S. Main St., Lindsey, OH 43442
Phone: (419) 334-4495
Email:
Website: https://www.lovemyparks.com/
Hours: Wed.-Sat., 10am-4pm
Located along the banks of the Muddy Creek in Sandusky County, Creek Bend Farm is home to the Wilson Nature Center & Homestead House. Visitors can experience this 310-acre property on over 2 miles of trails and exploring the creek. The nature center houses animal displays, library and children’s play area. The house has been restored to the 1940s and serves as an example of farm life during WWII. Check out the barn to explore the historical farm equipment used during the 1900s.
Sandusky County Historical Society
514 Birchard Ave., Fremont, OH 43420
Phone: 419-332-0303
Email:
Website: https://www.schistoricalsociety.com/
Hours: Wed., 1-4pm, mid-May-mid-Nov., OR by appointment
Fremont, originally known as Lower Sandusky, began as a village of Wyandot Indian natives. In the 1750s, the French constructed a fur trading post During the War of 1812, the U.S. Army built a military post, known as Fort Stephenson, where the Birchard Public Library now stands. Sandusky County (1820) was originally part of territory set aside for Ohio’s Indian people by the Treaty of Greenville. (Citizens named the county after an Indian term for “at the cold water.”) The Sandusky County Historical Society was formed in 1874. Among its founders was Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, who served as the Society’s first secretary. Stop by to see the many artifacts on display and let the history tell you its story through this self-guided exploration of days gone by.
Stemtown Historical Society
111 S. Kansas St., Green Springs, OH
Phone: 419-639-0319
Email:
Website: https://stemtownhistoricalsociety.com/
Hours: Feb.-Mid-Dec., Wed., 3-7pm; Sat. 10am-3pm; Other times by appointment
A local history museum is based in a church with rich history. We feature artifacts from Seneca Indian days and the Oak Ridge Hotel spa era at the famous mineral springs. Military, families, businesses, and school collections; including a flag designed by Civil War General James B. McPherson, and photos are displayed.
SENECA COUNTY
American Civil War Museum of Ohio
217 S. Washington St., Tiffin, OH 44883
Phone: 419-455-9551
Email:
Website: http://www.acwmo.org/
Hours: (Closed Jan.-Feb.)
Open remainder of year Noon-4pm., Wed-Sat. Also open by request. Parking located in back of building with a handicap accessible entrance.
The American Civil War Museum of Ohio, a not-for-profit organization, was formed to provide a unique educational museum for interpreting the American Civil War, specifically Ohio’s involvement, and its impact on the current generation of American people. Featuring 8 main exhibit areas, educational learning centers, a gift shop, research library and presentation room, we are positioned as a premier source of education and enjoyment, offering a diverse range of programs and activities.
Fostoria Glass Museum, Glass Heritage Gallery
109 N Main St, Fostoria, OH 44830
Phone: 419-435-5077
Email:
Website: https://fostoriaglass.com/
Hours (April–Dec.) Tues.–Fri., 10am-4pm; Sat., 10am-3pm Also, open Th.-Sat. in March. Group Tours are welcome.
The Glass Heritage Gallery in Fostoria, OH displays over 1,000 lamps and glass items produced by 10 companies which operated in Fostoria from 1887-1920. There is no admission charge, and we are handicapped accessible.
Kaubisch Memorial Public Library
205 Perry St., Fostoria, OH 44830
Email: https://www.fostoria.lib.oh.us/contact
Website: https://www.fostoria.lib.oh.us/
Hours: Mon.–Th., 9am-6pm; Fri./Sat., 9am-2pm; (Closed Sunday)
Fostoria presents a unique challenge to genealogists because it is located in 3 counties---Seneca, Hancock, and Wood. Due to the generous support of the Fostoria Lineage Research Society and local genealogists, the library has been able to build a large collection of materials pertaining to Fostoria’s tri-county area.
Seneca Caverns
15248 Township Rd. 178, Bellevue, OH 44811
Phone: 419-483-6711
Email: https://senecacavernsohio.com/contact/#
Website: https://senecacavernsohio.com/
Open from May through mid-October; Closed from November through April. Plan Your Visit: Call or visit our website for tour times.
Descend into the cool depths of Seneca Caverns on a one-hour guided tour. Follow stone pathways through stunning underground formations and discover Ole Mist'ry River flowing quietly beneath your feet. Above ground, try gemstone panning at our sluice—fun for all ages—and browse cave-inspired gifts at our Hollowrock Gift Shop. refreshing Northwest Ohio escape, rain or shine.
Seneca County Museum
Phone: 419-447-5955
Email:
Website: https://senecacountyohiomuseum.org
Open for Guided Tours, Wed. – Sat., noon to 5pm (last tour entry 4pm)
Housed in the Italianate-style home of Tiffin’s first millionaire, Rezin Shawhan, the museum displays original furnishings and artwork from the 19th century. Ornate glassware from local factories, military artifacts, a medical exhibit, an iconic music space, and memorabilia from Tiffin’s Junior Home all recall the county’s varied and rich history. A research library invites visitors to explore deeper into Seneca County’s past while a gift shop offers items from local artists and authors.
Tiffin Glass Museum
25-27 S Washington St, Tiffin, OH 44883
Phone: 419-448-0200
Email:
Website: https://www.tiffinglass.org/
Hours: Wed.-Sat., noon-4pm, Feb.-Dec.
The Tiffin Glass Museum honors the heritage established by the men and women of Tiffin’s “Glass House”. Through preservation and education, the museum safeguards glassware made by the artisans from the factory’s nearly hundred-year history. Over 300 glass pieces are displayed in the museum, along with educational materials. Tours are free of charge, and we welcome donations.
Tiffin-Seneca Public Library
77 Jefferson St., Tiffin, OH 44883
Phone: 419-447-3751 • Fax: 419-447-3755
Email:
Website: https://www.tiffinsenecalibrary.org/
Find us on Facebook, Instagram & YouTube "Seneca County Digital Library"
Hours: Mon.-Th., 9:30am-8:30pm; Fri./Sat., 9:30am-5:30pm; (Closed Sunday & all federal holidays)
Tiffin-Seneca Public Library’s genealogy and local history department holds resources for research on Tiffin and Seneca County, such as family histories, newspapers, city/county directories, yearbooks, Junior Order of United American Mechanics Home, and general Ohio information. There are two digital libraries, Seneca County Digital Library and the TSPL Digital Library (video histories) which primarily focus on Tiffin and Seneca County history and contain local business information, photographs, postcards, marriage licenses, naturalization records, newspaper articles, and city/county histories.
WILLIAMS COUNTY
Williams County Public Library Local History & Genealogy
102 N. Main St., Bryan, OH 43506
Mailing Address: 107 E. High St., Bryan, OH 43506
Phone: 833-633-7323, ext. 275
Email:
Website: https://www.mywcpl.org/local
Hours: Mon., 9am-8pm; Tues.-Th., 9am-6pm; By appointment.
The Local History & Genealogy Center at the West Annex in Bryan offers researchers a wide range of resources including online databases, books, special collections, and microfilm specific to Williams County.
WOOD COUNTY
Bowling Green State University, Special Collections
1001 E Wooster St, Bowling Green, OH 43403
Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 43403
Website: https://www.bgsu.edu/library.html
Browne Popular Culture Library, 4th Floor, Jerome Library
Email:
Website: https://www.bgsu.edu/library/pcl.html
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm (varies, by time of year)
The Browne Popular Culture Library (BPCL) is home to one of the largest collections of American popular culture library and archival materials in the country. Collection strengths include genre fiction (e.g., vintage, romance, mystery, sci-fi/fantasy), comics, zines, movie and tv scripts, press kits, literary manuscripts, popular nonfiction (e.g., cookbooks, pop psychology, supernatural, travel), postcards, posters, and other items relating to material and mass culture. BPCL provides field trip opportunities for K-12 and community groups, along with reverse field trip and virtual field trip options. BPCL is open to the public, though our items are archival and do not circulate outside of the library.
Center for Archival Collections, 5th Floor, Jerome Library
Email:
Website: https://www.bgsu.edu/library/cac.html
Hours: Mon – Fri 8 am – 5 pm, Monday evenings by appointment
The Center for Archival Collections (CAC) serves as the home for rare and unique primary sources on the history of BGSU, northwest Ohio, the Great Lakes, student affairs professions, literature, the book arts and more. Emphasis is placed on institutional and local history, Great Lakes maritime history, women's history, and all aspects of the social, cultural, economic, and industrial history of northwest Ohio. The CAC holds extensive genealogical resources, from local vital records to church records to an extensive run of regional newspapers on microfilm. CAC staff are available for individual research consultations, presentations, tours, and a variety of classroom engagements. The CAC is open to the public, though our collections are archival and do not circulate outside of the library.
Curriculum Resource Center, 2nd Floor, Jerome Library
Email:
Website: https://www.bgsu.edu/library/crc.html
Hours: Mon – Wed 8 am – 8 pm, Thurs-Fri 8am – 5pm, Sun 1pm – 8pm
The CRC is a collection of high-quality materials for educators, parents, and community members to use with learners in grades preK-12. Award winning juvenile literature, engaging curriculum materials, and hands-on manipulatives are selected and maintained by staff with years of expertise who care deeply about connecting educators with valuable learning resources to use with their students.
Wood County Park District, Carter Historic Farm
18331 Carter Rd., Bowling Green, OH 43402
Phone: 419-601-3653
Website: https://wcparks.org/parks/#visit-parks (Carter Historic Farm is in the left navigation bar)
Hours: Grounds are open daily from 8am until 30 min past sunset; tours are available Fri.–Sun., 1–4pm.
Carter Historic Farm is a Great Depression-era living history farm, demonstrating historic farming and household techniques.
Fort Meigs
29100 W. River Rd., Perrysburg, OH 43551
Phone: 419-874-4121
Email:
Website: https://fortmeigs.org/
Hours: Open Wed.-Sat., 9:30am-5pm; Sun., noon-5pm (Closed Mon.-Tues.)
Fort Meigs marks the turning point in the western theatre of war during the War of 1812. Learn about Ohio’s role in the War of 1812 at this National Historic Landmark through soldiers’ letters and diaries, uniforms and weapons located in the Museum open year-round. In the months of April through October, visitors can discover the War of 1812 in new ways in the reconstructed fort by exploring buildings, artillery batteries, and earthworks used by troops to defend the fort.
Historic Perrysburg, Inc. & Spafford House
27340 W River Rd, Perrysburg, OH 43551
Email:
Website: https://www.historicperrysburg.org/
Historic Perrysburg Inc. is dedicated to the preservation of the architectural and cultural heritage of Perrysburg and to encourage public appreciation of this heritage through community participation and education.
Points of interest: Streetscape markers along Louisiana Ave. in historic Uptown Perrysburg that tell histories of the buildings; a commemorative town clock that marks our bicentennial on the corner of Louisiana Ave. and Second St. Can’t miss: The Local History Room inside Way Public Library.
Snook’s Dream Cars
13920 County Home Rd., Bowling Green, OH 43402
Phone: 419-353-8338
Email:
Website: https://www.snooksdreamcars.com/
Hours: Mon.–Fri., 8am-Noon & 1-5pm; Weekends by appt.
Travel in the Past Lane. Automobile history comes alive at Snook’s Dream Cars, located adjacent to one of America’s first cross-country highways, US Route 6 in Bowling Green, Ohio. Featuring a recreated 1940s era Texaco gas station, a showroom of extensive automobile memorabilia and a car collection presented within period scenes ranging from a 1930s general store to a racetrack from the 1960s.
Wood County District Public Library, 
Local History Collection
251 N. Main St., Bowling Green, OH 43402
Phone: 419-352-5050
Email:
Website: https://www.wcdpl.org/LocalHistory
Collection includes resources pertaining to all of Ohio, with a primary focus on Wood County. Highlights include a large photograph collection, extensive genealogical research tools, Bowling Green school yearbooks, microfilmed newspapers (some also available online), online research databases, and a small archival collection with information on local businesses, schools, churches, social organizations, and events/festivals.
Wood County Museum
13660 County Home Rd, Bowling Green, OH 43402
43402 Phone: 419-352-0967
Email:
Website: https://woodcountyhistory.org/
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: "Wood County Museum"
Hours: (self-guided tours) Mon.–Fri., 10am–4pm; Sat., noon-4pm (Closed on Sunday & county holidays). Other closures and extended hours can be found on our Facebook page and website.
The Wood County Museum was once the site of the Wood County Infirmary (also known as the County Home) from 1869 to 1971. As a museum, the site features award-winner rotating exhibits and year-round events. The main 30,000 sq. foot Museum building is on the National Register of Historic Places. This 51-acre site features a museum, paupers cemetery, original site structures, oil derrick, nature trails, herb gardens, and more! Museum operations are a collaborative effort between the Wood County Commissioners, the Wood County Historical Society, and the Wood County Park District.
WYANDOT COUNTY
Upper Sandusky Community Library
301 N Sandusky Ave, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351
Phone: 419-294-1345
Email:
Website: http://www.usclibrary.org
Hours: Mon.-Th. 9am-8pm, Fri. 9am-6pm, Sat. 9am-1pm
We have been serving Upper Sandusky and the surrounding area for over 100 years, beginning in 1912 when the USANDO Literary Club donated $25 to a fledgling library fund. As our town has grown and changed over the years, so has USCL. USCL offers programs and events for all ages throughout the year, and we welcome you to join in the activities or stop by to see our growing collection of items available for patrons to check out.
Wyandot County Historical Society and Museum
130 S 7th St, Upper Sandusky, OH 43351
Phone: 419-294-3857 (museum)
Email:
Website: http://www.wyandothistory.org
Contact: Ronald Marvin, Jr. (Director), 443-510-5162 (cell)
Hours: Fri.–Sun., 1-4:30pm, first weekend in May–mid-Dec.; Other dates and times by appointment
The museum, a historic home built in 1853 for Isaac Beery and his wife, Leefe Fowler, was donated to the Wyandot County Historical Society by their grandson, former Sears, Roebuck & Co. President and C.E.O. Fowler Beery McConnell, and his wife, Lucille in June 1962. Decorated to illustrate the late 1800s, it holds many artifacts and documents relating to the history of Wyandot County, its inhabitants, businesses, famous residents, and the Wyandotte Nations citizens. The property also includes the one-room Maple Grove Schoolhouse, Outhouse, and Pennsylvania Railroad Shack.
McCutchen Overland Inn
283 N. SR 53, McCutchenville, OH 44844
Website: https://www.wyandothistory.org/?page_id=4
Hours: 1-4:30 pm, First Sat./Sun., May–Sept. Other dates and times by appointment
Colonel Joseph McCutchen built the Overland Inn, located in McCutchenville, Ohio, in 1829. The structure served as a stagecoach stop, hotel and an apartment building. It was purchased by the Wyandot County Archaeological and Historical Society in 1964, restored to its stagecoach era appearance and dedicated in 1967. Located along SR 53 (formerly the Plank Road or Harrison Trail), it is one of only two stagecoach inns remaining in their original location in the state of Ohio. It is furnished with antiques donated by Wyandot County residents and retains the original reception and bar room where travelers such as Charles Dickens and General William Henry Harrison visited.
AMERICA 250 RESOURCE SITES
The Northwest Ohio Cultural Heritage Group will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a number of events and activities at locations listed throughout the 2026-27 edition of this Passport. Although Ohio was not among the original colonies that gained independence from Great Britain in 1776, it had been a part of what became known as the Northwest Territory as established in 1787 by the Continental Congress. Ohio had been home for hundreds of years to Native American groups, such as the Shawnee, Delaware, Wyandot, and Ottawa. Ohio statehood came on March 1, 1803, and was a pathway to the new country’s westward expansion. The museums, libraries, archives, and historical societies that comprise the Northwest Ohio Cultural Heritage Group have preserved and continue to promote the history of this region. We invite you to learn more about the region and America. Additional America-250 information can be found on the following websites:
Federal
- America 250 (Department of Veterans Affairs), https://department.va.gov/history/america-250/
- America 250 (Share America), https://share.america.gov/tag/america-250/
- America 250: Years in the Making - https://america250.org/
- America’s 250th Birthday (Advisory Council on Historic Preservation), https://web.archive.org/web/20250313010847/https://www.achp.gov/Initiatives/250th_Birthday
- America’s Founding Documents (National Archives) - https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs
- American Memory (Library of Congress) https://www.loc.gov/search/?fa=partof:american+memory
- Celebrating 250 Years of America (Daughter of the American Revolution), https://www.dar.org/outreach/america-250
- Celebrating the American Worker https://www.dol.gov/general/America250
- Indigenous America 250, https://www.indigenousamerica250.com/
- A More Perfect Union (National Endowment for the Humanities)https://www.neh.gov/250
- Our Invitation to You: Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary (Library of Congress) https://blogs.loc.gov/loc/2023/07/our-invitation-to-you-celebrate-americas-250th-anniversary/
State
- America 250: Celebrating America's Semiquincentennial (State of Ohio), https://ohio.gov/tourism/resources/america-250-ohio
- America 250-Ohio (America 250-Ohio Commission) https://america250-ohio.org/
- America 250 Celebration Events (Ohio Department of Natural Resources ODNR), https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/news/america-250-events
- America 250-Ohio Events & Experiences (Ohio History Connection)
- https://www.ohiohistory.org/events-experiences/america-250-ohio/
- America 250-Ohio Grants (Ohio Humanities), https://www.ohiohumanities.org/grants/america250-ohio/
- Celebrating America 250 in Ohio Webinar (Heritage Ohio), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4Gn_nb094M
- Revolutionary War Veterans Graves Project (Ohio History Connection) https://www.ohiohistory.org/preserving-ohio/history-preservation-where-you-live/revwarvet-graves/
By county:
- Crawford: https://crawfordcountyhistoryalliance.org/
- Erie: https://eriecountyohiohistory.org/ohio-250/
- Fulton: https://visitfultoncounty.com/279/Lets-go-on-a-road-trip
- Hancock: https://visitfindlay.com/america-250/
- Henry: https://www.napoleon.lib.oh.us/content/henry-county-ohio-america-250-stories
- Marion: https://www.visitmarionohio.com/news/america-250/
- Ottawa: https://www.ottawacountyhistory.org/america-250
- Richland: https://www.richlandsource.com/tag/america-250-ohio/
- Wood: https://www.bgohio.gov/696/America-250
- Wyandot: https://www.wyandothistory.org/?p=1818
Counties:
1. Allen; 2.Ashland; 3. Crawford; 4. Defiance; 5. Erie; 6. Fulton; 7. Hancock; 8. Hardin; 9. Henry; 10. Huron; 11. Lucas; 12. Marion; 13. Mercer; 14. Morrow; 15. Ottawa; 16. Richland; 17. Sandusky; 18. Seneca; 19. Williams; 20. Wood; 21. Wyandot
Participant Index
Allen County Museum (Allen)
American Civil War Museum Of Ohio (Seneca)
Andrew Tuttle Memorial Museum (Defiance)
Ashland County Historical Society (Ashland)
Bellevue Historical Society (Huron)
BGSU Special Collections At Jerome Library (Wood)
Bluffton University’s Musselman Library (Allen)
Carter Historic Farm (Wood)
Catawba Island Historical Society (Ottawa)
Cleo Redd Fisher Museum (Ashland)
Crestline Historical Society (Crawford)
Defiance County Historical Society (Defiance)
Delphos Canal Museum (Allen)
Erie County Historical Society (Erie)
Fallen Timbers Battlefield Preservation Commission (Lucas)
Findlay-Hancock County Public Library (Hancock)
Fort Meigs (Wood)
Fort Recovery Museum & Monument (Mercer)
Fostoria Glass Museum (Seneca)
Four Corners Historical Cooperative (Henry)
Galion History Center (Crawford)
Hancock Historical Museum (Hancock)
Hardin County Historical Museums, Inc (Hardin)
Henry County Historical Society (Henry)
Heritage Sylvania (Lucas)
Historic Perrysburg, Inc. (Wood)
Holy Toledo (Lucas)
Huron County Community Library (Huron)
Kaubisch Memorial Public Library (Seneca)
Kelley’s Island Historical Association (Erie)
Lake Erie Islands Historical Society (Ottawa)
Lakeside Heritage Society (Ottawa)
Lakeside-Chautauqua (Ottawa)
Liberty Center Public Library (Henry)
Malinta Community Historical Society (Henry)
Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics (Mercer)
Marion County Federation Of Women’s Clubs (Marion)
Marion County Historical Society (Marion)
Marion Palace Theatre (Marion)
Maumee Valley Historical Society (Lucas)
Mercer County District Library (Mercer)
Morrow County Historical Society (Morrow)
Museum Of Fulton County (Fulton)
National Museum of The Great Lakes (Lucas)
New London Area Historical Society (Huron)
NW OH Railroad Preservation Museum (Hancock)
Ohio Genealogical Society (Richland)
Ottawa County Historical Society (Ottawa)
Ottawa County Museum (Ottawa)
Rutherford Hayes Presidential Library & Museums (Sandusky)
Sandusky County Historical Society (Sandusky)
Sandusky County Park District Creek Bend Farm (Sandusky)
Sandusky Library/Follett House Museum (Erie)
Sauder Village (Fulton)
Schedel Arboretum & Gardens (Ottawa)
Seneca Caverns (Seneca)
Seneca County Museum (Seneca)
Snook’s Dream Cars (Wood)
Stemtown Historical Museum (Sandusky)
Swiss Community Historical Society (Allen)
The University Of Findlay’s Mazza Museum (Hancock)
Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum (Erie)
Tiffin Glass Museum (Seneca)
Tiffin-Seneca Public Library (Seneca)
Toledo History Museum (Lucas)
Toledo Police Museum (Lucas)
Toledo’s Attic (Lucas)
Toledo-Lucas Public Library Main Branch (Lucas)
Upper Sandusky Community Library (Wyandot)
Ward Canaday Center at University of Toledo (Lucas)
Warren Harding Presidential Sites (Marion)
Waterville Historical Society (Lucas)
Williams County Public Library (Williams)
Wood County District Public Library (Wood)
Wood County Museum (Wood)
Wyandot County Historical Society (Wyandot)