Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum

Put-in-Bay is the perfect vacation spot but did you know it also has a fascinating history? Thanks to the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum, this Put-in-Bay attraction offers visitors a chance to learn all about this remarkable region by visiting their exhibitions, events, and museum gift shop.

The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum Details

Centrally located right downtown, the LEIHS is situated right behind the Put-in-Bay Police Department, the fan favorite Put-in-Bay bar, the Put-in-Bay Brewing Company, and adjacent to Town Hall. Stop by after having a hearty meal at a Put-in-Bay restaurant to help walk off those calories! They regularly put on interesting exhibitions funded entirely by donations and proceeds from their popular Resale Shop, also located on the premises.

South Bass Island is just one of many in Lake Erie. All in all there are 26 islands. The LEIHS is charged with archiving and documenting the history of the entire region. A pretty big job! It is open every day during the summer season with open hour intermittent in the off season.

Children under 5 are free while others are $5 and senior citizens $3. Ticket sales also help fund the museum. School groups are always welcomed, they just need to make reservations in advance. There is also a museum gift shop located onsite.

History buff? Consider becoming a member of the Lake Erie Historical Society and reap the members benefits all year round. Members enjoy free admission, invitations to parties, advance tickets for special events, and discounts in the museum store! They offer different membership tiers, from individual to lifelong member.

The Lake Erie Island Historical Society Museum Events and Exhibitions

Every season, the LEIHS curates special exhibits to delight visitors and educate them about different aspects of the surrounding area. They cover everything from the history of the American Indians who once populated the islands to the turning point of the Battle of Lake Erie.

For the 2018 season, the LEIHS is proud to present “Treasures From the Archive.” This is a very rare occasion to view artifacts normally housed in the archive. Due to the fragile nature of historical photographs and papers, they are usually kept away from light in order to preserve them. It also includes a selection of recent gifts to the museum.

The LEIHS regularly hosts events throughout their year. Perhaps their most popular is their yearly auction. Folks can bid on a number of items, ranging in price. Most are related to the history of the islands. All proceeds benefit the society.

They also host trips to other islands, the Road Race Reunion, and the Island Wine Festival. Sample from over over 250 imported and domestic wines at this day long event in October. Wine making are always been instrumental to Put-in-Bay. This is a wonderful way to celebrate it!

The Resale Shop

The LEIHS Resale Shop is a popular destination for locals and visitors. By only accepting items in pristine condition, shoppers find items of only the highest quality while shopping. They have everything from clothing to electronics to housewares. And what’s better than scoring a new item knowing your cash goes directly to a good cause?!

Make sure to visit both the museum and Resale Shop once you get off that Put-in-Bay ferry!