Upcoming Events
Time Travelers - Community Theatre of Terre Haute
A behind the scenes look at the theatre, exploring parts of CT that many have never seen before! Join us as we visit the Community Theatre of Terre Haute and celebrate their
100-year-old story
Free for members of the History Center or Indiana Landmarks or $7 admission
A Brief History of Transportation in the United States
Join us as we welcome back to the History Center- Transportation Historian, Jim Grey. Jim gives an overview of transportation in the U.S. as we explore how Americans moved across the landscape from the years before the nation’s founding through the modern era.
Discover how Native trails became early travel routes, how canals and railroads opened new opportunities for settlement and commerce, how the automobile transformed everyday life, and how paved roads changed the way we travel.
Program is included with the cost of admission or free for members of OLLI and the History Center.
2026 Vigo County History Center Golf Outing
The Vigo County History Center is excited to announce our 2026 Golf Outing fundraiser event.
It will be held on September 10th, at the historic Rea Park Golf Course in Terre Haute from 11:00-5:00pm. Lunch will be provided from 11am - noon. Our goal is to raise money to support the Vigo County History Center and historic preservation services of the archives and museum collections.
We offer several sponsorship opportunities, providing benefits and visibility for your business.
More information and registration can be found HERE.
For further questions, please contact the History Center at
(812) 235-9717 or info@vchsmuseum.org
Your support of the Vigo County History Center Golf Outing displays a meaningful commitment to preserving and sharing our community’s rich history.
Merom Camp and Retreat Center- History, Community and Renewal
Nestled on the bluffs overlooking the Wabash River, Merom Camp & Retreat Center has welcomed generations of visitors seeking education, recreation, inspiration, and community. Join special guest, James Shrum at the Vigo County History Center for an engaging journey through the remarkable history of this treasured Sullivan County landmark. From its early beginnings and the story of the five-story College Hall to its many roles as a gathering place through the decades.
Discover how this historic campus continues to evolve as it enters a new chapter. Opening its doors to community celebrations, cultural events, and educational opportunities that serve the entire Wabash Valley. Whether you've visited Merom before or have only heard of it's haunted legends, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for one of Indiana's most distinctive historic places and the vision that is ensuring its legacy for generations to come.
Program is included with the cost of admission or FREE for members of OLLI and the Vigo County History Center.
Time Travelers- Vigo County History Center- Max Ehrmann Program
Explore the life, writings, and personal artifacts of Terre Haute’s beloved poet-philosopher Max Ehrmann. His timeless words continue to offer quiet wisdom, enduring perspective, and a reminder to approach life with hope and intention.
Presented by county historian and the curator of the Vigo County History Center, Suzy Dunning. This program features a tour of artifacts from the History Center’s collection including Ehrmann’s journals, published works, photographs, letters, and personal belongings that reveal the story behind the man whose message continues to inspire generations.
The program is free for Vigo County History Center and Indiana Landmarks members. The cost for non-members is $7. Tickets can be purchase at the Vigo County History Center or Online https://www.vchsmuseum.org/tickets
RSVP at info@vchsmuseum.org or call (812) 235-9717.
The History of the Indiana Limestone Industry
The History Center welcomes Clay Stuckey to talk about Indiana Limestone on July 18th at 2:00 pm. Join Clay Stuckey for a fascinating look at the history of Indiana’s limestone industry and the remarkable impact this natural resource has had on architecture across the nation. From the quarries of southern Indiana to some of America’s most iconic structures, Indiana Limestone became one of the most sought-after building materials in the country, with a significant portion of the nation’s limestone buildings tracing their origins to just two counties in southern Indiana.
This program will explore the growth of the limestone industry through approximately 1950, highlighting the people, innovations, and economic forces that shaped this important Hoosier industry. Clay will also share local connections, including the stories behind Terre Haute buildings that showcase the beauty and craftsmanship of Indiana Limestone.
Program is included in the cost of admission or Free for members of the History Center and OLLI.
Meet Your Vigo County Sheriff's Office
The History Center welcomes Vigo County Sheriff Derek Fell for a special program on July 11th at 2:00pm. The program, "Meet Your Sheriff's Office" will focus on engagement with the community members, discussing the history, crime stats, and current operations of the Sheriff's Office. The program will be in the auditorium of the museum and is included in the cost of admission or Free for members of the History Center and OLLI.
Time Travelers - June 2026
Join us for a walk around the Collett Park Historic Neighborhood to learn about the architecture and history of the homes in the park area. This program is in partnership with the Vigo County Public Library
Juneteenth
FREE Program at the History Center. Come celebrate Juneteenth with us and enjoy a special program by Crystal Reynolds PhD and special guest speakers. Free gift while supplies last- Light refreshments served following the program.
The History of Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods Through Postcards
John Becker, collector and historian, will present a visual tour of the campus buildings and scenes through time on June 6, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. The program is free for members of the Vigo County History Center and OLLI. Admission is also included with the regular cost of admission to the museum.
Time Travelers - Charles E. Brown Cultural Center
Step inside history at the Charles E. Brown Cultural Center on the campus of Indiana State University in Terre Haute. This special historical tour invites visitors to explore the building’s rich past, architectural character, and its role in campus and community life. Discover stories, spaces, and traditions that have shaped generations. Join the Time Travelers for a fascinating journey through one of ISU’s most meaningful Black History landmarks. Tour will include a talk by Dr. Crystal Reynolds on the African American murals inside the Cultural Center.
Panel Discussion - Jewish Heritage in Terre Haute
In this special program ISU History majors from History 400, completing their capstone course, will present and discuss their semester long project exploring the history of the Jewish community in Terre Haute.
Please join us for a panel discussion in support of the student's research project and to learn more about this important part of our local history.
This is a FREE Program in the History Center Auditorium
- Light refreshments will be available
Time Travelers Moench Hall- Rose Hulman Institute
The Time Travelers will be taking a tour of Moench Hall at Rose Hulman Institute April 21st. The program is free for members of the History Center and Indiana Landmarks or tickets can be purchased on the History Center Website. Visitors are encouraged to RSVP to info@vchsmuseum.org or call 812-235-9717
Community Theatre Celebrate 100
The Vigo County History Center welcomes Karen Crispin to share the 100-year-old history and remarkable story of the Community Theatre of Terre Haute. A rare and enduring example of a theatre sustained entirely by volunteers. This program explores a century of dedication, highlighting the individuals from all walks of life who generously gave their time, talent, and passion to keep the curtain rising. Learn how the theatre transitioned away from paid leadership to embrace a fully volunteer-driven model, strengthened by community partnerships, local businesses, and the continued support of the Indiana Arts Commission. Through perseverance and collaboration, these volunteers built not just a theatre, but a lasting community tradition.
Program is included with the cost of admission or free for members of the History Center and OLLI.
Community Theatre Celebrate 100 - Exhibit Opening Reception
The Vigo County History Center announces a new exhibit and opening reception Friday- April 3rd 5:30pm- 7:00pm. The exhibit featured on the 2nd floor of the History Center, will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Community Theatre of Terre Haute.
Museum curator Suzy Dunning teamed up with partners at the Community Theatre to bring this piece of our local history into the spotlight. The new exhibit will be accompanied with a special program on the theatre history that will take place in the auditorium at the Vigo County History Center on Saturday April 11th at 2:00pm. Program is included in the regular cost of museum admission or free for members of the History Center and OLLI.
Women's History Month - Walking Through History in Heels
The Vigo County History Center presents a special Women's History program featuring Michele Bennett and Suzy Dunning who will talk about Women's History through the eras. As part of the History Center's Vigo History Highlight of the U.S. 250th the program will focus on a number of local women who have shaken up history. Program takes place in the auditorium at the History Center.
Program is included with the cost of admission or free for members of the Vigo County History Center and OLLI.
Tickets can be purchased from the “Tickets” link in the upper right corner
Time Travelers - Veterans Memorial Museum of Terre Haute
The Vigo County History Center Time Travelers are visiting the Veteran's Memorial Museum. Since the last visit in 2022 there have been many updates to the Veterans Museum including the addition of the Bruce Whipple Vietnam Room, a 1000 sq ft addition to the Museum honoring Vietnam Veterans.
Join us as we explore this local treasure and meet with museum owner and director, Brian Mundell. Brian will lead our group through the vast displays of our local military history and in honor of Women's History Month, will focus on several brave women who have served our country.
Time Travelers is free for members of the Vigo County History Center and Indiana Landmarks or $7 for admission.
Tickets can be purchased from the “Tickets” link in the upper right corner
In the Spirit of the American Revolution
Celebrate Black History Month with In the Spirit of the American Revolution, an engaging and thought-provoking program that brings local Black history to life through powerful, curated stories. Guided by objects that bore witness to extraordinary moments of change, this tour explores the enduring pursuit of equality and freedom in our community. FREE PROGRAM -Join us as the Vigo County History Center welcomes, Dr. Crystal Reynolds on February 28 at 2:00 p.m. for an inspiring afternoon of history, reflection, and discovery. Visitors will receive a free gift while supplies last.
Tracking Wabash Valley Railroad History 1852 -Present
Presenter Larry Ratcliffe, retired Railroad Executive, 40 years in the industry and avid railroad historian. Learn the critical role Terre Haute played in Midwest railroad network. Program is included with the cost of admission or FREE for OLLI and VCHS Members.
Time Traveler's Swope Art Museum
Be among the first to step inside the newly renovated Swope Art Museum in Terre Haute! We’re inviting the public to a special behind-the-scenes tour of this beloved landmark before its much-anticipated reopening.
Explore refreshed galleries, reimagined spaces, and the future of art at the Swope—while celebrating a place that has inspired our community for generations. Space is limited, so don’t miss this rare opportunity to preview what’s next. We can’t wait to see you at the Swope!! Time Travelers tours are FREE for members of the Vigo County History Center and Indiana Landmarks or $7 for admission. Please RSVP by calling the History Center 812-235-9717 or email info@vchsmuseum.org Tickets available at the link or at the Vigo County History Center 929 Wabash Ave. Terre Haute, IN 47807
Author Visit - Charlotte Halsema Ottinger
Author Charlotte Halsema Ottinger will discuss her 2021 book, Madge: The life and times of Madge Oberholtzer, the young Irvington woman who brought down D.C. Stephenson and the Ku Klux Klan. According to newsman Harold C. Feightner, “Few deaths of comparatively inconspicuous people have had the far-flung effects that [Oberholtzer’s] did. Her passing marked the beginning of the end of the Ku Klux Klan in Indiana; it resulted in the indictment of Governor Ed Jackson; the indictment and conviction of Mayor Ed L. Duvall, of Indianapolis, and other city officials and a complete change in the capital city’s administration, and it nearly wrecked a political party.” Ottinger will discuss Oberholtzer’s limited relationship with Stephenson, Grand Dragon of the Klu Klux Klan, her abduction and assault, her death bed declaration and the trial that sent D.C. Stephenson to prison for second degree murder. In addition to a display of related artifacts from the 1920s, Ottinger will share interesting aspects of Oberholtzer’s short life including her time studying under notable Indiana artists William Forsyth, Otto Stark and Clifton Wheeler. Special attention will be given to the legal precedents established during the trial and Oberholtzer’s lasting legacy. Time will be given for questions and answers. You are welcome to bring your own copy of Madge to be signed or you may purchase a copy following the presentation.
Signed copies of book- $35.00 with 50% of proceeds going to the Irvington Historical Society.
Payment methods include cash, check, Venmo, Zelle or credit card.
Honoree Reception- Black History Month Banners
The Honoree Reception will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 5:30 PM at the Vigo County History Center, and the Banner Unveiling Ceremony will take place on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the corner of 7th Street and Wabash Avenue.
Time Travelers at St. Benedict Church
111 S. 9th Street- St. Benedict Catholic Church was originally built in 1864. After a devastating fire it was demolished and rebuilt in 1896. Join the Time Travelers Jan. 20th as we tour the magnificent church and learn about its history.
Time Travelers is Free to members or tickets can be purchased at $7 for adults / $6 seniors (over 60)
Please RSVP by email-
info@vchsmuseum.org or call 812-235-9717
Uncovering the Story Behind the Flames
Deputy Fire Marshall Tim Murphy will be giving the main presentation on a unique fire he investigated. He will describe, with actual photos of the incident, the methodical approach our fire marshals use to determine the cause and origin of every fire. I will open and close the presentation with a brief history of our fire department and what we envision for our future.
What the Dickens
What the Dickens is it About “A Christmas Carol” that Makes it So Popular?
Presented by: Michelle Bennett, Vigo County History Center Program Coordinator
Join us in this unique program as Michele leads a discussion about the author, the time period and the original story. How has the story changed over time and what makes this story so popular that it has been adapted into over 135 versions?
This program is included with regular cost of admission to the museum or FREE for VCHS members and OLLI members.
Anywhere but the poorhouse: Maggie Delany the rest of the story
The saga of Maggie Delaney, Irish indentured servant, continues in her third part series regarding poorhouses. Learn what happens to both her and Olde Badger as they take to the streets in the 1700's.
Program is included with regular cost of admission or free for members of the History Center and OLLI.
Along the Old National Road with Melanie Beaver
Take a walk back in time down the Old National Road in West Terre Haute with
Melanie Beaver, area educator, West Terre Haute resident, and the lover of the
stories old buildings tell. This presentation will timeline the "old corduroy road"
from the mid-1800s to the present.
Time Travelers- Indiana State University Normal Hall/ Fairbanks Hall
Join the Vigo County History Center for the July Time Travelers Event! This month, YOU can look forward to exploring the beautiful architecture and history found on Indiana State University’s campus, specifically its domes!
Some of the most notable domes on Indiana State University’s campus can be found in Normal Hall and Fairbanks Hall. The dome overlooking Normal Hall was constructed nearly 120 years ago by Louis J. Millet, a Chicago-based architect. His work featured historical figures in art, philosophy, and culture; all of which once gazed upon the reading room of the then Indiana State Normal School.
The dome found in Fairbanks Hall was also constructed nearly 120 years ago and features bust portraits of 16 notable figures in history, including authors, presidents, politicians, artists, inventors, and composers.
Learn even more about these historic structures and others by joining us on Oct. 21st at 5:30pm at the Time Travelers Event. Attendees meet at Normal Hall - 650 Eagle Street, Terre Haute, IN 47807
Time Travelers is Free for members of Indiana Landmarks and the Vigo County History Center. Regular admission $7 adult ticket, $6 seniors (over 60).
Indiana's Roads From the Early Dirt Paths to the Modern Superhighways
Jim Grey loves the history of Indiana's transportation network.
He's studied the development of Indiana's roads from the early
dirt paths through the woods to today's modern superhighways.
In this talk, Jim will give a primer on Indiana's road history
through the first paved highways, and then focus on the main
roads and highways of Vigo County as they changed through the 20th century.
Rose Hulman Institute of Technology- 150 yrs of Education
Explore the rich history of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology!
From its founding in 1874 to its rise as a leader in STEM education, discover the people, traditions, and breakthroughs that shaped Rose-Hulman’s legacy.
General Admission: Adults $7 Seniors $6
Admission is free to Vigo County History Center and OLLI Members
Discovering Ace Stewart: A Base Ball Player's Life
Join us for a book signing and author talk at the Vigo County History Center. Author Patrick Stewart will be sharing baseball stories and talking about his book- Ace Stewart: A Base Ball Players Life at 3PM. Patricks great-grand uncle was a professional baseball player whose career spanned two decades during the gritty, golden age of the game.
Signed copies of his book will be available for purchase.
Program is included in cost of general admission or free for members.
Black Film Series- Nothing But a Man and American Violet (Two Dates: Sept. 25 and Oct. 1, 2025)
Celebrate Black voices in film with a special screening of “Nothing But a Man” and “American Violet”. Join us as we welcome Anne D’Orazio for an inspiring look at powerful stories of resilience, dignity, and justice on the big screen at the Vigo County History Center
Serving Light Refreshments
Program is in the auditorium on the 3rd floor of the Vigo County History Center 929 Wabash Ave. Terre Haute, IN
Time Traveler's Tour- Deming Park
This month, Time Travelers can look forward to learning more about Deming Park, the largest park in Terre Haute. Beginning at the heart of the park, guests will start at the Torner Center Building and experience the rich history of the park.
The Tour is free for members of the Vigo County History Center and Indiana Landmarks
Non-members can purchase admission HERE.
Symphony Centennial: The Story of the Terre Haute Symphony’s First 100 Years
With Dr. David Chapman, THSO Board President
Join us for an exploration of the first 100 years of the Terre Haute Symphony Or-chestra, from its visionary leaders and creative artists to its generous supporters and strategic partners. The path to becoming Indiana’s oldest orchestra was rarely easy, marked by resilience, reinvention, and community spirit. This remarkable story traces a century of growth for both the orchestra and the city it calls home.
Admission is free to History Center members and OLLI Members
Adult admission is $7 and seniors $6
