Prehistory of Northern Ohio
RESCHEDULED to Thursday, February 26, 6:00 PM
Elyria Central Library, 211 2nd Street, Elyria
Thousands of years ago, as the giant glaciers were receding, American Indians moved into this area. Join LCHS as Lorain County Historical Society board member and local historian Matt Nahorn sheds light on the major prehistoric American Indian groups that lived in what we now know as Northern Ohio. A background of these American Indian groups and how they met their environment will be provided, including information learned about these people from the tools they left behind and the sites they occupied. This presentation is part of LCHS’s America 250 Speaker Series.
Then & Now: Inventions and Innovators of Lorain County
Monday, February 2, 6:00 PM
North Eaton Christian Church, 35895 Royalton Road, Eaton Township
In February, we recognize “Ohio Works: Innovation and Industry” with a presentation by LCHS Education & Engagement Coordinator Kayla Clark. From the padded bicycle seat to Beeman’s Gum, learn more with a presentation about the importance and impact of various inventors and inventions from Lorain County that contributed to the growth and development of this area and beyond on Monday, February 2 at 6:00 PM at North Eaton Christian Church. Kayla’s presentation is sponsored by the Grafton-Midview Public Library. Click here to register.
2026 Valentine Tea: “Steeped in Revolution”
Saturday, February 7, 11:00 AM
Sunday, February 8, 12:30 PM
Saturday, February 14, 11:00 AM
The Hickories Museum, 509 Washington Avenue, Elyria
Gather your friends and get ready for “Steeped in Revolution,” A Valentine Tea inspired by women who stirred things up. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, we are raising a (tea) cup to the women who claimed their own kind of liberty – those who challenged expectations, shaped their communities, and helped to write the story of Lorain County. This year’s program will feature a special fashion show across generations, highlighting how style, courage, and conviction have always gone hand in hand. During the show, enjoy a delicious three-course tea of savory and sweet delights served in the beautiful rooms of The Hickories Museum. Channel your own revolutionary spirit and join us! Tickets are $45 each ($40 for LCHS members). A limited number of seats remain. Contact the LCHS office at lchs@lchs.org for more information.
From Ohio to Broadway
Thursday, March 5, 5:00 PM
The Hickories Museum, 509 Washington Avenue, Elyria
Celebrate the March America 250-Ohio theme, “Ohio Entertains: Music & Entertainment,” with a special evening of music, history, and hospitality at The Hickories. Begin the evening with a buffet dinner catered by Fligner’s, followed by “From Ohio to Broadway,” a musical program presented by Bette Lou Higgins. An engaging local entertainer and historian, Bette Lou brings together music and narration to highlight Ohio writers and composers whose works have made their way to the Broadway stage. Hear more about the significant role Ohio has played in shaping American musical theater. Dinner will be served beginning around 5:00 PM and the program will start around 6:00 PM with the evening concluding around 7:00, making it an ideal weeknight outing. Reservations are $25 per person and must be made in advance. Click here to RSVP. To learn more about Bette Lou and the programs that she offers, visit www.edenvalleyenterprises.org. This presentation is part of LCHS’s America 250 Speaker Series.
From Garford to Fords: Prosperity and Crisis in the Lorain County Auto Industry
Monday, April 27, 6:30 PM
Grafton-Midview Public Library, 983 Main Street, Grafton
April’s America 250-Ohio theme is “Ohio Moves: Transportation.” Come to Grafton-Midview Public Library’s Community Room on Monday, April 27 at 6:30 PM to hear LCHS board member and retired Baldwin Wallace professor Bob Ebert present on the evolution of the Lorain County Automobile Industry. He will share his research and highlight the shift from the Garford Automobile to the Ford Assembly Plant in Lorain County. Registration is required for the event. Click here to register.
“How to do History” Genealogy Workshop: You Only Have a Death Announcement. Now What?
Saturday, May 16, 11:00 AM
Elyria Central Library, 211 2nd Street, Elyria
In May, the spotlight turns to “Ohio Creates: Arts, Culture & Literature.” LCHS is bringing renowned professional genealogist Deborah Abbott, PhD to the Central Branch of Elyria Public Library on Saturday, May 16 for a workshop entitled, “You Only Have a Death Announcement. What Now?” Starting with limited information from a death announcement, she will demonstrate how asking the right questions can open the door to identifying and determining which records are needed to uncover the unknown facts of a relative’s life. Attend and gain practical strategies for approaching genealogical roadblocks and learn how to follow evidence trails with confidence and curiosity. This presentation, the third in a series of “How to do History” workshops held in collaboration with Lorain Historical Society and Oberlin Heritage Center, is free, but registration is required. Click here to register.
Due to the historic architecture of the building, there is no elevator in The Hickories and stairs are required. Strollers, large bags, food, and beverages are not permitted inside the museum during events.