Welcome to the Putnam County Museum
BRIDGING GENERATIONS
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CONNECTING COMMUNITIES
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PRESERVING
THE PAST
765.653.8419
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Putnam County Museum
1105 North Jackson Street
Greencastle, Indiana 46135
Executive Director
Rachel Lewis
765.653.8419 – Office
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Officers
Curt Krominaker – President
Gwen Morris– Vice President
John Zeiner – Treasurer
Mary Zerkel– Secretary
Board of Directors
Steve Bonney
Kathryn Dory
Mike Harmless
Randall Jones
Mickey Meehan
Michael Murphy
Lane Ralph
Phyllis Rokicki
Rita Scheldel
Vicki Timm
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Since 2003, the Museum has been bridging generations, connecting communities, and helping to preserve Putnam County’s past. Whether you are a lifelong resident of the area or a visitor to our community, you are cordially invited to visit us and learn more about Putnam County.
The mission of the Putnam County Museum is to collect, preserve, and interpret the natural, historical and cultural heritage of the county.
The Museum is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization and contributions are tax deductible. Dues and donations are the main source of the Museum's operating funds.
History
In the late 1990's the Putnam County Historical Society sought a permanent home for the collection, preservation and protection of artifacts and stories relating to Putnam County and its people. Public meetings were held in concert with Main Street Greencastle, the Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and interested community members.
Education
The Putnam County Museum is a great local history resource for educators and parents. We welcome children of all ages and grades for field trips. A trip to the Museum complements the Indiana and Putnam County history curriculum.
Please book field trips four weeks in advance, giving more than one possible date for a visit. We recommend spending a minimum of 60-90 minutes at the Museum. Please contact us for further information.
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Beginning (1990's-2003)
In the late 1990's the Putnam County Historical Society sought a permanent home for the collection, preservation and protection of artifacts and stories relating to Putnam County and its people. Public meetings were held in concert with Main Street Greencastle, the Putnam County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and interested community members.
In 2002, the Putnam County Board of Commissioners helped secure a location. Volunteers formed a board of directors, elected officers, wrote policies, procedures, and by-laws. With the Putnam Community Foundation's grant of $20,000 and $10,000 in community contributions, the Museum hired its first director in January 2003.
First Home & Relocation (2003-06)
The Museum's first home was two rooms in the old Jones School, now the Putnam County Courthouse Annex.
In 2006 the Museum made a major move to its present location on North Jackson Street. Once again, the community stepped up with extraordinary support. It provided financial assistance as well as volunteer labor. In-kind donations provided much of the skilled labor and materials necessary to convert the large, empty space to an attractive and functional museum.
Bridging Generations (2006-present)
Over the last several years, the Museum has continued to expand its collection and provide diverse and quality exhibits. As an increasingly vital part of its community, the Museum also provides group meeting space and educational programs for adults and children. It strives to be a cultural hub dedicated to preserving and honoring the past while promoting activities that bridge generations to the present.