Connecting the Past to the Present
to Benefit Future Generations
Imagine sitting in a room where someone casually mentions that the high school was built on top of a pond — and the man next to him nods, because he remembers ice skating on it as a boy. That's an Echoes of History roundtable.
Someone brings an old photo. Someone else recognizes a face in it. A story comes out that's never been written down anywhere. An hour passes before anyone notices.
Last month we learned that the Crow Coal Company wasn't a union shop, but paid union wages anyway — and split a bonus among its workers every few months on top of that. We heard about a Clinton man who wrestled professionally as "The Missouri Assassin" before going on to scout for three major league ball clubs. And we found out there was a time around here when nobody would eat a crappie. You threw them in the weeds.
August 22
Echoes of History
These are stories that live only in the people who were there — and they're slipping away faster than we can capture them.
Our next Echoes of History gathering is Saturday, August 22nd at 10 AM at the Henry County Museum. No tickets, no agenda, no expertise required. Just bring yourself — and maybe a photo, a memory, or a question you've always wondered about.
Just bring yourself — and maybe a photo, a memory, or a question you've always wondered about. Coffee and donuts are on us.
Events We’re Planning
From silent auctions to wine-and-starlit- courtyard evenings, the season ahead is packed with reasons to gather, explore, and celebrate local history. Here's a look at what's coming up — we hope to see you at every one!
Sep 8-19 - Silent Auction
Sep 12 - Salad Luncheon
Sep 26 - Wine and Music in the Courtyard
Oct 11 - Annual Cemetery Tour
Nov 7 - Dorman House Event
Nov 27 - Living History Night
Dec 12 - Christmas Event
Sixty-Eight Years, Eight Months, and Twelve Days: The Nathaniel Duff Story
Introducing In-Depth Articles
We have created an Articles section on the Henry County Museum website for those interested in a deeper understanding of history.
If you grew up in Clinton, you may remember the house at 619 East Ohio Street — the brick one with the strange porch posts. They weren't traditional wooden posts. They were stoneware jars, stacked and set in place, holding up the roof of a man's front porch.
Look higher, and it got even stranger. Broken pottery was worked into the gable. Jar lids formed a border around it. And at the very top, in a little round window, sat a clay puppy dog, fashioned by the owner's own hands, watching the traffic go by on East Ohio.
Museum Collections
The Henry County Museum features thousands of county artifacts from the early 1800s to more recent times.
Our collection is displayed in creative venues, including an early 1900s village with a drug store, a doctor's office, a bank, a saddle shop, a general store, and more.
Genealogy Research
Our volunteer researchers go beyond what you find online.
We can help verify key details and uncover missing pieces of your family history. Our genealogy library offers expert guidance and historical insights to deepen your understanding of your ancestors' world.
Venue Rentals
Host your special event in a unique historic setting at our museum, ideal for small- to medium-sized gatherings.
Whether it's a wedding, corporate meeting, or birthday celebration, our charming venues create a memorable backdrop. Give your guests an experience they won’t forget.
A Word About Our Sponsors
Our sponsors play a vital role in our mission to preserve history and safeguard knowledge for future generations.
Their unwavering support empowers organizations like the Henry County Historical Society to bridge the gap between the past and the present. With gratitude, we extend our heartfelt thanks to these exceptional businesses and organizations!