welcome to
historic Connersville,inc.

fayette county
indiana

welcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indianawelcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indianawelcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indiana

welcome to
historic Connersville,inc.

fayette county
indiana

welcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indianawelcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indianawelcome to historic Connersville,inc. fayette county indiana
Canal House

Welcome

There's much to see here. So, take your time, look around, and learn all there is to know about us. We hope you enjoy our site and invite you to come visit us.  Above is the Canal House, built in 1842 as the headquarters of the Whitewater Canal.  Located at 111 E. 4th St., it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the finest examples of Greek Revival Architecture in Indiana.  It is owned and maintained by Historic Connersville, Inc.

Open at various times during the year.

About Us

Historic Connersville's Origin

Historic Connersville, Inc. is constantly striving to grow our collections and educate others about the rich heritage of Fayette County, Indiana.  Connersville's history began with its founding by John Conner in 1813.  Fayette County was created in 1819.  Our organization was formed almost fifty years ago with the goal of preserving the history of our county and Connersville, the county seat.  The first priority was the acquisition and restoration of the Canal House.  Other properties followed, and our exhibits grew and continue to grow. 


Historic Connersville Today

We are a non profit organization staffed by dedicated volunteers who delight in sharing the story of our community. Our organization is funded through dues and donations. The museum at 200 West Fifth Street is open Saturday and Sunday year round.  Special group tours are available outside our regular hours.  The Canal House and Hose House are open during special events and by appointment.  There are no admission fees, but donations are gratefully accepted.  We invite you to visit and promise you won't be disappointed!

Fayette County Historical Museum

The museum has something for everyone!

Native American Artifacts

Pioneer Life and  a Log Cabin

Whitewater Canal Artifacts

Industrial & Manufacturing History

Connersville Built Horse Drawn  Vehicles

Connersville Built Motor Cars

School & Organization Displays

Open Saturday and Sunday

10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

First Division Hose House

The one remaining of Connersville's three original firehouses, built in 1870.  The Hose House contains memorabilia from the Connersville Fire Department's past, including the original Gamewell system which alerted the firemen through a series of fire boxes located throughout the city.  Open by appointment.

Photo Gallery

    The Story Begins

    The Story Begins

    The Story Begins

    The Story Begins

    Our collection of Native American artifacts which have been gathered from the area.


    Settlement

    The Story Begins

    The Story Begins

    Log cabins were the first homes for most early settlers.  This cradle was hand made in the Carolinas about 1790 and  was brought here by the family about 1810.

    Pioneer Life

    The Story Begins

    Pioneer Life

    The first settlers were somewhat isolated.  Most cabins were roughly 12' x 16' and contained what the family needed to be self sufficient.

    Progress

    Tools of the Trades

    Tools of the Trades

    Tools of the Trades

    Agriculture was the principal occupation of early settlers.  The first tools were usually handmade.  Later, machines came into use that made the work easier.

    The Country Store

    Tools of the Trades

    Tools of the Trades

    Trading posts and general stores sprang up, and people could barter for or buy necessities.   These places often also served as post offices.

    Government

    Tools of the Trades

    Government

    As with all communities, Fayette County needed a center of government.  The present courthouse is built around this structure which was built in 1849.  

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    Downtown Area (and Beyond) Historic Tour

    Our city and county are full of beautiful places to see, and many of them are extremely historic. as well.  The Mary Gray Bird Sanctuary, just a short drive southwest of town, is a great place for a hike and a picnic.  Many of the homes of our early industrialists and business men are examples of classic architectural styles.  City Cemetery is the resting place of our earliest citizens.  Roberts Park has a great aquatic center and excellent examples of the work done by the WPA.  It also hosts the state's oldest free fair.  

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