Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum

Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum: A Journey Through Put-in-Bay’s Past

  • Location & Accessibility
    • Centrally located in downtown Put-in-Bay, behind the Put-in-Bay Police Department and near the Put-in-Bay Brewing Company.
    • Adjacent to Town Hall, making it a convenient stop during your island visit.
  • Engaging Exhibits & Programs
    • Discover the rich history of South Bass Island and the Lake Erie region through interactive exhibits.
    • Learn about maritime history, the War of 1812, local industries, and island life.
    • The museum is funded by generous donations and its popular Resale Shop, ensuring continued preservation of Put-in-Bay’s heritage.
  • Hours & Admission
    • Open daily during the summer, with intermittent hours in the off-season.
    • Admission Prices:
      • Children under 5: Free
      • General Admission: $5
      • Senior Citizens: $3
    • School groups are always welcome! Advance reservations are encouraged for a guided experience.

Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Put-in-Bay’s past, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum is a must-visit attraction for all ages!

Museum Features:

Each season, the LEIHS curates unique exhibits to educate and inspire visitors about the area’s history. Highlights include:

  • Treasures From the Archive:  A rare opportunity to view artifacts typically kept in the museum’s archives, including fragile historical photographs and documents.  This exhibit showcases items from recent gifts to the museum, giving a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage.
  • Battle of Lake Erie:  Explore the pivotal moments of this historic event that significantly impacted the region’s history.
  • American Indian History:  Delve into the stories and artifacts from the Native Americans who once called the Lake Erie Islands home.
  • Exhibitions: Dive into the history of South Bass Island and its connections to the broader Lake Erie region.
  • Events: Join engaging talks, guided tours, and special events that bring the past to life.
  • Gift Shop: Pick up unique souvenirs and educational materials to remember your visit!

Become a Member of The Put in Bay Historical Museum

History buffs will love the perks of becoming a member of the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society.

Members enjoy:

  • Free admission year-round
  • Invitations to exclusive parties and events
  • Priority tickets for special exhibits
  • Discounts in the museum store

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum offers a fascinating look into the rich history of Put-in-Bay and the Lake Erie Islands. It’s a great way to make your visit both memorable and educational!

Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum: Events and Exhibitions.
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum offers a variety of engaging events and captivating exhibitions that showcase the rich history of Put-in-Bay and the surrounding islands. From deep dives into the island’s past to special one-time showcases, there’s always something fascinating to discover.

Popular Events.

The LEIHS hosts a variety of engaging events throughout the year, bringing together history enthusiasts and the community:

  • Yearly Auction:  Bid on a wide range of items, from rare historical artifacts to unique memorabilia, all with proceeds supporting the museum.
  • Road Race Reunion:  Celebrate the history of the island’s famous road races with this exciting annual event.
  • Island Wine Festival:  Held every October, this day-long festival features over 250 domestic and imported wines.  Sample, sip, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Put-in-Bay’s winemaking legacy.

Special Offer

As a special thank you for visitors who have the book 101 Things to Do at Put-in-Bay, enjoy $0.50 OFF admission and FREE Parking during your visit!

Make sure to visit both the museum and the Resale Shop during your time at Put-in-Bay. It’s a great way to take home a piece of island history!

See You at The Bay 🙂

No ratings yet.