Business Details
Preserving Ontario County's Heritage & History
Founded to preserve and promote the rich history of Ontario County, our organization serves as a vital cultural institution dedicated to education, historical research, and community engagement. With decades of commitment to safeguarding local heritage, we maintain extensive archives, host educational programs, and curate exhibits that bring regional history to life. Our team of historians, archivists, and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure historical artifacts and stories are accessible to researchers, students, and the general public. Through partnerships with schools, universities, and local businesses, we offer immersive learning experiences including workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities.Our research room provides specialized access to genealogical records, surname files, and historical documents, supporting both casual inquiry and academic study. Annual events like walking tours, film premieres, and themed exhibits foster community connection while highlighting unique aspects of our region's past. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely on memberships, donations, and grants to continue our mission of making history relevant and accessible for future generations.
Services
Historical Research
Museum Exhibits
Educational Programs
Event Hosting
Genealogy Resources
Highlights and features
- We maintain extensive historical archives and genealogical resources dating back to the 19th century
- Our team includes certified archivists and historians with specialized regional expertise
- We offer exclusive access to surname files and original historical documents for research
- Our educational programs align with state curriculum standards for history education
- We partner with local institutions to provide verified historical information and resources
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Services
Historical Research
Our research room provides access to original historical documents, genealogical records, and surname files for academic and personal study. Researchers can explore primary sources including photographs, letters, and institutional records dating back to the 1800s. Appointments ensure personalized assistance with document retrieval and historical context interpretation.
Museum Exhibits
Rotating exhibits showcase Ontario County's heritage through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Current features include medical history exhibits and zinc monument collections. Educational signage provides historical context while special programs offer deeper engagement opportunities through lectures and guided tours.
Educational Programs
We offer curriculum-aligned educational experiences for K-12 students and adults through workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities. Programs include genealogy basics, historical research methods, and themed history lessons. Partnerships with local schools enhance learning through primary source analysis and field study opportunities.
Event Hosting
Our venue hosts historical walking tours, documentary premieres, and seasonal celebrations. Signature events include the annual picnic and genealogy lecture series. Community partnerships expand programming through collaborative exhibits and special interest group meetings focused on regional history preservation.
Genealogy Resources
Specialized genealogical resources include surname files, census records, and cemetery indexes. Staff assist with family history research using verified documentation and digital databases. Workshops teach effective research techniques while our archives provide access to original records for tracing local ancestry.
Questions
How can I access historical records for research?
Our research room offers appointment-based access to original documents, genealogical resources, and surname files with staff assistance available during operating hours.
Are there educational programs for school groups?
We provide curriculum-aligned history programs for K-12 students including workshops, guided tours, and primary source analysis activities by reservation.
What types of exhibits are currently featured?
Current exhibits include medical history displays, zinc monument collections, and rotating thematic presentations about local heritage topics.
How can I support the historical society?
Support through memberships, donations, or volunteer work helps preserve local history. Corporate sponsorships and planned giving options are available for sustained community impact.
Can I host events at your facility?
Our venue accommodates historical events, lectures, and community gatherings. Contact us for availability and facility rental information.
