Lake County History Center in Painesville Township is more than a museum—it is a living record of Lake County’s evolution, housed on a site whose own history stretches back nearly two centuries.

Long before it became a destination for exhibits, education, and community events, the property served a very different purpose. The land was originally part of Lake County’s early public care system, established in the mid-1800s as a county poorhouse and infirmary. In 1876, a larger institutional building was constructed on the site to replace earlier facilities, continuing its role in housing and caring for residents in need for generations.

Today, that same campus has been transformed into a 33,000-square-foot museum, library, collections and assembly space, along with rental venues for the public.

Founded in 1938, the History Center now welcomes more than 36,000 visitors annually and continues to expand its mission of preservation and education. Its collection includes more than 31,000 artifacts and archival items, ranging from photographs and family records to organizational documents, personal belongings, and historic objects that reflect everyday life in Lake County.

Among its holdings are wedding dresses, writing desks, a Sony Walkman, and materials connected to President James A. Garfield. The museum maintains 9,717 objects, 6,736 photographs, 6,913 archival records, and 8,272 books and documents, all digitized for public access.

Unlike publicly funded institutions, the History Center is a private nonprofit. It relies heavily on community support, with funding coming from memberships, individual and corporate donations, grants, educational program tuition, ticket sales for events, and rentals of two venue spaces.

“Our historic brick building celebrates its 150th birthday this year!” said Lisa Lewins, History Center director. “We encourage everyone to stop by with family and friends for a free museum tour, or attend one of our events filled with learning and entertainment. This is a hidden gem with so much history about our rich heritage in Lake County.”

Education plays a central role in the organization’s mission. The History Center brings its adult education programming directly into the community, while youth participation continues to grow, with attendance increasing among students ages 5 to 18.

“We offer an on-site Pioneer Village for schools, groups, and families, where visitors get to try living in rustic 1824 Ohio conditions. Our adult programs include on-site speakers, lantern and ghost tours, trolley tours, off-site Speaker Bureau re-enactors, and a growing number of entertaining educational programs,” added Lewins.

Beyond education and exhibits, the History Center serves as a community gathering place.

That role will be on full display during a major upcoming celebration.

On Sunday, June 14, 2026, the History Center will host a Community Picnic celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The free event runs from 4 to 6 p.m., followed by a DJ-led barn dance featuring line dancing and popular music.

Activities will include live music, a petting zoo, Pioneer Village games, free museum tours, and a patriotic costume contest. Guests will also enjoy complimentary food, including hot dogs, popcorn, pie, and beverages. Register at www.lakehistory.org to reserve meal tickets and beverages.

From its origins as a 19th-century county care institution to its current role as a cultural and educational hub, Lake County History Center continues to preserve the region’s past while actively engaging its future—one story, artifact, and community event at a time.

For more information about the History Center or hosting an event, visit www.lakehistory.org, call 440-639-2945, or email information@lakehistory.org.

By Dan Miller, Today’s Family