Genealogy Basketball Donations Preservation Appraisals Speaker’s Bureau Grounds Use Membership Museums

Can you help out with my genealogy search?
We are always willing to try, but realistically we do not have the staff or primary sources to answer genealogy requests. However, Montgomery County does have an active genealogy club that is better equipped to help you. They can be reached via email or visit their website. You can also find great local genealogy resources online at the Crawfordsville Public Library Local History Department’s Web site.

Can you answer a question about Montgomery County basketball?
Sure. However, there is an organization that is better equipped to answer any and every question you could possibly ask about county basketball. Click here to read more about the Montgomery County Basketball Hall of Fame. Or write to MCBHF at 908 Cottage Avenue, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.

Do you accept donations of artifacts?
Yes, but before we can accept an item, it must first be evaluated by our collections committee to determine if the item is consistent with our collections policy. In some cases we may suggest that an item be donated to another museum whose mission may be more compatible with the artifact. Please contact us to suggest or offer a donation.

I have a family heirloom that I’m uncertain how to care for. Can you give me some advice on how to best preserve it?
Yes, we would be happy to do so. Simply call or e-mail us and arrange a time when we can offer suggestions to preserve the item. We do not charge for this service.

I have this antique, and was wondering if you could tell me what it is worth?
It is against museum ethics to appraise items. We would recommend that you contact a reputable antique dealer in your area, or monitor internet auction sites to see what similar items are fetching.

Our club or class is interested in learning more about a historical topic. Would you be available to make a presentation?
Yes. We are willing to make presentations on any area or subject in Montgomery County history. We have an academically trained historian on staff who will gladly research and present on any historical topic. There is no charge for this service. To schedule a presentation please call or e-mail us.

I’m planning a social function (e.g. wedding, club meeting, family reunion). Can we use the Lane Place and its grounds?
While Lane Place and its grounds are privately owned, we are happy to rent the Pattison Pavilion, aka the Gazebo, and the grounds. To learn more about renting the grounds and pavilion, please contact us at (765) 362-3416 for availability. Be sure to read our Grounds Policy. Access/use of the Lane Home is not included.

How do I join the Montgomery County Historical Society?
It’s easy, just download our membership form, fill it out and return it to us with your membership payment. Annual memberships begin as low as $15. Being a member helps support the preservation of Lane Place, the Speed Cabin, and their artifacts. Your dues will help us continue some of our projects like ArchiCamp, the Veterans Oral History Project, and restoring the Courthouse Clock Tower. Members can enjoy benefits such as free admission to Lane Place, gift shop discounts, receiving publications, participating in bus tours, and attending the annual dinner.

Does the Montgomery County Historical Society operate the other Crawfordsville museums, too?
Curiously, the answer is no. Each of Crawfordsville’s four museums is operated by a different organizational entity. The Carnegie Museum of Montgomery County is operated by the Crawfordsville District Public Library. The General Lew Wallace Study and Museum is operated by the Crawfordsville Parks and Recreation Department. The Old Jail Museum is operated by the Montgomery County Cultural Foundation. The only historical sites MCHS operates are Lane Place and the Speed Cabin.