Lake Erie Island Historical Museum
25 Town Hall Place
Put-in-Bay, OH 43456
419-285-2804
Lake Erie Island Historical Museum
Lake Erie Island Historical Museum
The Lake Erie Island Historical Museum exhibits the island’s rich history, maritime history, and the legacy of the Victorian era which heavily influenced the island architecture, many of these buildings are still in use today. They also have a gift shop with the ever popular “Don’t Give Up the Ship” clothing, flags, and glassware. The Resale Shop has regular and historical treasures alike. You never know what you might find, and it’s located directly behind the museum. Many locals donate treasure to the resale shop so most everything you might find has some significance to the island’s history.
Lake Erie Island Historical Museum Mission
The mission of the Lake Erie Island Historical Museum located downtown is to educate our community and visitors to the island on the history of the Lake Erie islands as well as Put-in-Bay History. Founded in 1975 was known as the Put-in-Bay Centennial Committee, the organization wasn’t renamed until 1985 when a dedicated group of island residents came together to make to bring their vision of the museum to life.
The original museum was at the site of the historical Put-In-Bay Bottling works building in 1987. Almost 20 years later in 1998, a new 6000 square foot main building was opened downtown behind the Put-In-Bay Police Department and the historic Town Hall. Parking is available while visiting the Lake Erie Island Historical Museum. Put-In-Bay’s Lake Erie Island Historical Museum welcomes all ages to learn and explore the interesting history of the beautiful islands of Lake Erie’s Western Basin through the many interesting displays. The museum provides several different activities. They also host lectures, tours, and different seasonal events. The museum is open daily Memorial Day to Labor Day and weekends in the Spring and Fall.
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society sponsors fundraising activities through the year including the Island Auction and the Put-in-Bay Wine Festival.
Things to See Around the Lake Erie Island Historical Museum
After your tour of the museum, it may be time for a bite to eat! Just up the road on Catawba Avenue is the Goat Soup & Whisky known for their Lake Erie Yellow Perch Tacos. Their homemade soups are to die for and their complete menu features steaks seafood & pasta dishes. If a little lighter fare sound more appealing Joe’s Bar features a selection on Americas Favorite Sandwiches from Sloppy “Joe’s” to hamburgers. If a pizza sounds like the way to go the Frosty Family Pizza located on the mains strip in downtown Put-in-Bay has been an island favorite for over 50 years and is still operated today by second-generation family members.