Does the Montgomery County Historical Society receive any government funding?

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No.  The MCHS relies entirely on local support to fulfill our mission.  If you want to support us, please consider a membership or donation today. You can contact us at 765.362.3416 to find out more.   ​

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Can you help out with my genealogy search?
 

We are always willing to try, but realistically we do not have the staff or primary sources to answer genealogy requests.  Montgomery County has an active genealogy club that is better equipped to help you, check out their Facebook Page.  You can also find great local genealogy resources online at the Crawfordsville District Public Library's Local History Department.

 

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​Do you accept donations of artifacts?
 

Yes, but before we can accept an item, it must first be evaluated by our collections committee to determine if it is consistent with our collections policy.  In some cases, we may suggest an item be donated to another museum whose mission may be more compatible with the artifact.  Contact us with any donation offers at 765.362.3416 or jcoates@lane-mchs.org.

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​​I have this antique, and was wondering if you could tell me what it is worth?

It is against museum ethics to appraise items. We recommend contacting a reputable antique dealer in your area, or monitor internet auction sites to see what similar items are fetching.

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Our club or class is interested in learning more about a historical topic. Would you be available to make a presentation?
 

Yes, schedule allowing, one of our staff or board members may be willing to present on several Montgomery County history subjects. There is no charge for this service. To schedule a presentation please call or e-mail us.

 

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I’m planning a social function (e.g. wedding, club meeting, family reunion). Can we use Lane Place and its grounds?
 

Lane Place, and its grounds, is owned by the MCHS.  We are happy to rent the Pattison Pavilion, aka the Gazebo, and the grounds. To learn more about renting the grounds and pavilion, contact us at (765) 362-3416 for availability. Read the Pavilion Rental Agreement to learn more about rental. Access/use of the Lane Home is not included. 

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How do I join the Montgomery County Historical Society?

It’s easy!  Just fill out our Membership Form and return it to us with your membership payment. Annual memberships begin as low as $25. Being a member helps support the preservation of Lane Place, the Speed Cabin, and their artifacts. Your dues help us continue some of our projects: the Veterans Oral History Project; restoring the Courthouse Clock Tower; free tours for Montgomery County fourth grade students; and the Jane Kessler Memorial 4th Grade Essay Contest. Members can enjoy benefits such as free admission to Lane Place, gift shop discounts, receiving publications, and discounts towards events like the annual dinner.

Does the Montgomery County Historical Society operate the other Crawfordsville museums, too?

No, each of Crawfordsville’s four museums is operated by a different organizational entity.  ​The Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County is operated by the Crawfordsville District Public Library.  The General Lew Wallace Study and Museum is operated by the Crawfordsville Parks and Recreation Department.  The Old Jail Museum is operated by the Montgomery County Cultural Foundation.  ​The only historical sites MCHS operates are Lane Place and the Speed Cabin.

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