The archives contain a wide variety of printed material dating back to the early 1800s.  There are assorted books, records, and photographs. Photo identification is required for all research. Contact

, the archivist, for information or to schedule an appointment.

WCPL ARCHIVE HOURS
Tuesdays, 10 am to 1 pm
Wednesdays, 10 am to 3 pm
Thursdays, 10 am to 3 pm
Fridays, 10 am to 1 pm
Other hours by appointment.

The archives have recently been transferred to the care of the Wabash Carnegie Public Library. Please read the following press release for a better understanding of the change.

Library and Museum Form a Strong Connection

 The Wabash Carnegie Public Library and the Wabash County Historical Museum are working closely together to serve their patrons.  Starting January 1, 2012, the Library will take over ownership and care of the archival holdings housed on the Museum’s second floor. 

According to Tracy Stewart, executive director of the museum, this project has been underway for several months.  “The Museum’s board of directors realized earlier this year that our budget made it difficult to make the most of the archival items that are entrusted to us.  There is so much research to be done, so much organizing, and so much involved in caring for these items.  All this requires a staff larger than the Museum’s and, of course, a budget to care for the items.”

While researching different ways to care for and fund the archives, the Museum looked at a model close to home:  the Indiana State Museum and the Indiana State Historical Society.  “These two organizations have parallel collections.  The museum collects 3-D artifacts and the historical society focuses on books, photographs, and paper items,” said Stewart.

Ware Wimberly, Director of the Wabash Carnegie Public Library, explained that most people would not notice the change in ownership.  “To most of the patrons who use the archives, there will be little change.  The collection will still be housed in the museum at 36 E. Market Street.  Just as at the library, the collection will be available to anyone, even those without a library card.  The items are for research only and the collection cannot be checked out.”

Stewart added, “In the past, the Museum had to charge patrons for access to the archives.  It was included in the admission charge.  Now the Library will make visits to the archives available to anyone at no charge.”

  Heather Allen, who has worked for the museum since its opening in 2006, will transfer to the library staff.  “Heather is a great asset. She has worked with the collection for years and we look forward to having her expertise,” said Wimberly.    

 The Wabash County Historical Museum located at 36 E. Market Street, in Wabash.  The archives area is currently open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Fridays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Researchers are encouraged to call 260/563-9070 to schedule a time to visit the archives. 

Use the field below to search for items available in the archives:

Available in the archives:
(We reserve the right to limit or deny access to some items due to their fragility and the rareness of the collection.)

ARCHIVE INVENTORY LISTING
The archival holdings include books, magazines, publications, pamphlets, diaries, and more. This listing includes the titles of said publications, but not the full content. There is also a textual listing of some of the photos in our collection. Many are available for copies or prints, or can be put onto a disc. Check with the archivist for costs and research fees. For more information on a specific item, e-mail the archivist Heather Allen at heather@wabash.lib.in.us, or call 260.563.9070 to speak with her. Her hours are listed above.