The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society, in partnership with other island businesses and non-profits, sponsors and supports through its volunteers many great island events during the year on South Bass Island.
We also sponsor our own events such as our annual Island Auction, an annual Art Auction, and an Opening Party and Closing Party for our members, and those interested in becoming members, of the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society.
We could not continue to protect our priceless collection of historic artifacts and offer the general public the opportunity to view these items and learn about island history without the generosity of our members and volunteers.
We appreciate everyone's continued support.
Volunteers
The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that operates on donations, fundraising events and programs, and a small army of volunteers.
The 13 members of the Board of Directors, which guides the operation of the society, are also made up of volunteers with a shared interest in protecting the museum's collection of island artifacts and providing an educational experience for islanders, the thousands of visitors to the island each year, and the hundreds of school children who visit each spring and fall.
If you'd like to donate your time, please contact the museum for availability. Our busy times include the Museum Auction, the Art Auction, and the Island Wine Festival Silent Auction.
The Resale Shop is always in need of extra help.
We appreciate everyone's continued support.
We hope you'll make plans to join us in 2022 and enjoy our exhibits, events and programming. It takes all of us to continue to support the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society's educational programs and preserve and protect our collection of Lake Erie Islands history.
Upcoming Events
May 13 -- Museum and Resale Shop open full time for the season, 11 am to 5 pm
May 14 -- Island Wide Garage Sale. Maps available t the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce. Great bargains at the Resale Shop. Check us out.
June 22 -- The North Bass Island Tour has sold out. You can call the museum and get your name on a list in the event of a last minute cancellation. Hosted by the museum and the friendly residents of North Bass. This year's theme is "Margaritaville" and features a Treasure Hunt, Costume Contest and Pirates running a muck. Ticket sales for members begin May 24. Non-members may purchase tickets beginning June 1. Rain date is June 23, The ferry departs promptly at 9 am from Miller's downtown dock.
June 24 --Opening Party Potluck at Museum. Museum Members and anyone interested in supporting the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society Museum by joining are invited to attend. Everyone is asked to bring a food item to share. Cocktails start at 4 pm.
August 4 -- Museum Auction at Heineman Winery. Preview items starting at 2 pm. live auction begins at 4 pm. One of the museum's major fundraising events each year. Many vintage, antique and historical items available in both the live and silent auctions. The printed Island Guide has the incorrect date.
August 12 -- Museum Art Auction at the Crew's Nest. Island and area artists donate artwork to be sold to benefit the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society. Architectural elements from the former Chan Stevens property (Hunker House), Bob Schmidt house and E&K Winery will be used by artists.
September 11 -- Historical Weekend Old Tyme Baseball Game, 2 pm, location to be announced soon. The local Mossbacks challenge the Ohio Historical Society Muffins to a game using the original rules of baseball. Museum staff and volunteers will sell hot dogs and soft drinks provided by our friends at Miller Boat Line with all proceeds benefiting the museum.
September 17 -- Annual Museum Membership Meeting and Potluck. Museum Members attending the Annual Meeting will vote for members of the Board of Directors, each serving three-year terms. A brief overview of 2022 events and programs will be given and a potluck will follow. Those attending are asked to bring a food item to share.
October 1 -- Island Wine Festival Silent Auction at the Put-in-Bay Winery. The silent auction is part of the Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce's annual Island Wine Festival, 11 am to 5 pm, Always a great selection of items, including vintage souvenirs, collectables, antiques, wine-related items, Put-in-Bay lodging stays, Jet Express and Miller Boat Line passes and other items donated by island businesses.
October 6 -- Museum Volunteer Party. Our chance to thank our volunteers who donate their time at our events and fundraisers, and who work in the Museum Resale Shop. We always excited to see new volunteers join our team. Volunteers running the Resale Shop receive "Resale Shop Bucks" to purchase items in the store. Stop by and ask for Marsha for more info or to sign up.
Put-in-Bay Road Races
Want to know more about the Put-in-Bay road races? The Put-in-Bay Road Race Heritage Society has all the information you could ask for!