LEIHS Museum Store and Resale Shop

Tasked with preserving and promoting the rich history of the Lake Erie Islands, the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society is a bastion of the Put-in-Bay community. The proceeds from the LEIHS Museum Store and Resale Shop support this institution. It is also a great place to purchase clothing, home goods, and appliances at a discounted price.

LEIHS Museum Store and Resale Shop Details

Open during the season with limited hours in October, the LEIHS Museum Store and Resale Shop is located on the site of the Historical Society.

Behind The Old Forge and the Reel Bar and next to the Put-in-Bay Police Department, this beautiful red and white wood framed building is in the heart of downtown. There is plenty of parking available for golf carts and helpful signs marking the way.

The Resale Shop carefully vets every donated item, making sure that everything for sale is in pristine condition. Everything is guaranteed clean and in fine working condition. Come by to peruse the selection, whether you are on the hunt for some necessities or something special. You never know what you may find!

The Lake Erie Historical Society

Besides the LEIHS Museum Store and Resale Shop, visitors will find a variety of interesting things to see at the Historical Society. They have a regularly rotating schedule of exhibitions about the history of Put-in-Bay and the entire region with features on such varied things as winemaking on the island and the tragic story of the Victory Hotel. The museum opens with an educational video about the history of the island.

The current featured exhibition is “Treasures from the Archive,” which displays many photographs, historical papers, and artifacts that the public rarely sees. A really exciting glimpse into Put-in-Bay’s past. It also includes a fine selection of recent gifts to the island.

The LEIHS also regularly hosts events throughout year. Their most popular event is their yearly auction. Folks can bid on a number of items which range in price. Many 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 250 imported and domestic wines at this popular day long event in October. The perfect way to celebrate such an important part of Put-in-Bay history!

A Brief History of Put-in-Bay

A popular summer resort since the mid-1800’s, Put-in-Bay has a long and storied history. It first came to the nation’s attention during the War of 1812. An instrumental location, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry sailed from the port of South Bass Island to fight a squadron of British troops. Despite being outnumbered, the American troops were victorious during what came to be known as the Battle of Lake Erie.

Soon after the war, the establishment of the township of Put-in-Bay attracted tourists looking for a nearby getaway. With an unique landscape of limestone caves and plenty of wineries, it flourished into the 20th Century. While the island saw some tough times, namely during Prohibition, it has always remained the preeminent vacation destination on Lake Erie.