Salem Area Historical Museum

10/10/2026

FYI

10/10/2026

The Salem Area History Museum is working diligently to have the SAHM ready to visit for the many that will return for the “Salem All Class Reunion” October 24 & 25. We are not finished yet. There is much to be done as we add the final touch especially to the SAHM School exhibit. Severalnew items have been recently acquired. We have been graciously gifted the office bench honoring Bob and Nancy Cone who acquired it years ago. It originally sat just outside B. E. Gums office at the school. When you were sent to The Superintendents office, you waited at outside his office door. If you were chewing gum, you deposited it under the bench seat as he did not like to see gum chewed. Let’s say it made you visit a bit more comfortable according to people today that remember those visits. We have several more items to add to the window exhibits, and a very large school exhibit dating back to Central School opening. Also Central School, the new Salem High School followed by the present SCHS Campus. Keep watching for additional items that will be added along the way, and Thank You to our many donors and those interested in the museum. We look forward to your museum visit and we appreciate the items given. We look forward to each Saturday wondering just who might come in and we are never disappointed. Be sure to watch as you pass by the museum and be prepared to leave your gum under the bench seat just like had become the custom, just before your name was called before entering the Mr. Gums office to receive your sentence. See you all at the Reunion 2026.

10/04/2026

🍁🧡🍂 The “Tales From East Lawn.” What a wonderful tour again this year sharing and reminding Salem residents of those families and individuals that walked before us to help
make Salem the city it is today. Those attending were reminded of family life, both humorous as well as the reality and sadness of death by characters portraying the Larimer, Schwartz, McMackin , Merritt’s, Earnhardt, Sweney and Schoonover families. So many good memories in life to remember, along with the sadness that reminds us to not take life so seriously, that we miss any opportunity to remain close to both family, friends and your many memories. As a commission we must compliment each character, for their accuracy, research and the finesse each brought to life. We end this tour with another group of eight remarkable people that both produced and reminded us of our city named Salem, meaning peace is Jewish. The past might not have always been smooth or perfect; however, we more often than not can peacefully come together, remembering the good. Those attending couldn’t help but experience the humor and sadness of each character, yet leave with a feeling of peace. Thank you to all who support our effort and encourage the Salem Historical Commission to press on with a kindness and appreciation of a wonderful history. See each of you again at East Lawn, 2027. 🍂🧡🍁

09/30/2026

🍁🖼️🍂This painting is the artistic work of the late Thelma Lauer, wife of Dr. Lauer who formerly practiced in Salem. This painting was graciously donated to the museum to honor Dr & Mrs. Lauer by Frank Brinkerhoff. We thought for fun, serious fun we’d offer our museum Face Page friends a chance to suggest a name that is in good taste. Mrs. Lauer didn’t name this piece, so we open it up to the public. Just another way to celebrate the “Little Egypt Festival!” We will keep a check on your suggestions and call a win on Sunday. I think of this couple as very proper, kind and classy. Possibly that will help you in your suggestion. Looking forward to seeing your thoughts. Have fun. 👩‍🎨🎨🖌️🖼️

09/30/2026

Do remember. It’s a big weekend in Salem. “Little Egypt Festival” weekend, parade and the “Tales of East Lawn” yearly cemetery tour. Also the Salem Area History Museum will be open Saturday from 9 am until time for parade to start. The Salem Historic Commission looks forward to welcoming our community and surrounding areas to the museum. We have many items that recall our past. We commit to collecting, preserving, protecting and presenting Salem past to all that choose to stop in. There is no charge, though donations are appreciated. Thank you for all who have donated, shared family items, and especially encourage us as we commit to presenting Salem past in a tasteful way. As we say…”See you at the Museum!”

09/30/2026

Thank you for understanding our purpose

IPRB's latest mini-documentary tells the story of the legendary Lak...

09/30/2026

How amazing. And it’s true. The Salem Area History Museum is honored to have a permanent exhibit of the great Salem Oil Boom. I wasn’t privileged to live in Salem at that time. It was a life saver for Marion County and for Salem in general. But ever greater was the impact it had during the war effort. Salem has nothing to be ashamed of. The 1938 boom and Salem oil field was one of the very best things that ever happened to Salem. We’re honored to help its memory remain alive and on exhibit for our important historical past.

IPRB's latest mini-documentary tells the story of the legendary Lak...

09/21/2026

The much enjoyed “Tales From East Lawn” is about to happen folks! This announcement is to make our supporters aware that tickets have gone on sale this morning [9/21/2026] at Salem City Hall!!! One of the young ladies will sell you the time, dates you prefer, and the number of tickets you need. More information about the tour awaits. The SAHM will release more information near’er the date. You will not be disappointed. Practice is moving right along 2 evenings a week and the actors are doing an amazing job. We sure look forward to seeing you there, and sincerely appreciate your interest and support.

09/10/2026

What a wonderful play will be on stage for the next 2 evenings. I’ve heard great comments about how well done it is. The Salem Theatre always has outstanding actors and actresses, and amazing vocalists. As usual, arrive early, find a great parking space, enjoy dinner out at the ABC pub & Grill and stop in the Salem Area History Museum to see what’s new. We will be open for two hours prior to the play beginning. Salem is blessed to have 3 top venues just steps from each other. We look forward to our evening guests prior to the Theatre starting time. We will also be open on Saturday for standard museum hours from 9 am until 12 noon, and for the evening Theatre hours, 5:00 pm until starting time. Look forward to seeing all who stop in. Enjoy the evening! 👍