Wolcott House Museum Complex
Maumee, Ohio
2008 - All Rights Reserved
The roots of the Maumee Valley Historical Society go back to 1864 with the formation of the Maumee Valley Pioneer Association. The founding members were early settlers of Northwest Ohio, who came together to protect and preserve the historic artifacts of the Maumee Valley as well as document information about themselves for future generations.
Peter Navarre was the first president of the Society and served until his death in 1873. Horatio Conant served as Vice-President. The first meeting was held in Toledo, on February 22, 1865, with Morrison R. Waite of Maumee City, Ohio as the guest speaker.
In 1918, the Society became known as the Historical Society of Northwest Ohio. The object of the Society was to: 1) Acquire books, printed papers, and manuscripts, 2) Encourage writing of books and papers, 3) Deliver lectures and addresses on subjects of history, 4) To collect and arrange objects of historical interest and provide for their preservation and exhibition, and 5) To provide a museum to house these collections.
The purpose of the Historical Society broadened in the late 1950's when it's dream of operating a museum became a reality. In 1957, Rilla Hull, the last direct descendent of James and Mary Wolcott, passed away and left her ancestral home to St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Maumee. The Church sold the estate to the City of Maumee, and is managed by the Maumee Valley Historical Society.
Mission Statement
The Maumee Valley Historical Society's mission is to collect, preserve, study, interpret and communicate the history and culture of the Maumee Valley for the education of its members and the general public. This mission is accomplished through a variety of educational programs, events and projects, which are presented within the context of an early nineteenth to early twentieth century recreated village around a central green on the grounds of the Wolcott House, using period structures containing appropriate furnishings and artifacts.
■ Discover, procure, preserve and display whatever may relate to the general history of the Maumee River Valley
■ Promote interest in history among all members and the public
■ Maintain a library of historical literature
■ Encourage the presentation of books, papers and lectures on subjects of historical and literacy interests
■ Collect objects of historical interest and arrange for their preservation and exhibition.
Members of the Society have many opportunities to get involved. The following are among the areas of interest:
► Wolcott House Museum Complex
► Education Programs
► Northwest Ohio History
► Volunteer Opportunities
► Local History Resources & Networking
► Toledo's Attic
► Special Events
► Speakers Bureau
► Lectures
As a member of the Society, there are certain special benefits depending on level of membership. These benefits include individual and family free admission to the Wolcott House Museum Complex, discount at the Talking Turtle Gift Shop, admission to "Christmas by the River" party, and a subscription to the publication Northwest Ohio Quarterly. Refer to the chart for specific levels of membership.
$150 Heritage Club
$100 Founder's Club
$50 Legacy Club
$35 General
$25 Senior/Student
Membership
Benefits
The Application
The heritage of the Maumee Valley and its surrounding communities is preserved through membership in the Society. If you are interested in becoming a part of this collegial organization click on the Membership Application.
