History Center

The History Center is home to the Allen County- Fort Wayne Historical Society, its museum and collections. When formed in 1921, the society's assets were few, consisting of some historical relics that had been preserved by the Mary Penrose Wayne Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Today it maintains a collection of more than 26,000 artifacts, photographs and documents representing the history of Fort Wayne and Allen County. The largest of these is the very building in which the society has resided since 1980--the 1893 City Hall building designed by Fort Wayne architects John F. Wing and Marshall S. Mahurin. The History Center also oversees the historic Barr Street Market (adjacent to the building), the oldest public space in Fort Wayne, dating back to 1837, and the 1827 home of Miami Chief Jean Baptiste de Richardville.To serve present and future generations by collecting, preserving, and sharing historic artifacts, documents, and images that describe the people, places, and events that define Fort Wayne and Allen County history.

Vision Statement

The Allen County-Fort Wayne Historical Society will be the leader in presenting the history, customs, traditions, and heritage of Fort Wayne and Allen County to the community through the use of creative and innovative techniques and technology.

Facility Rentals Information

If you would like to make your next event truly historic, our facilities are available for rental, including the picturesque Shields Room, which served as the former city council chamber when the building was still Fort Wayne's city hall. This room has been used for lectures, conferences, retirement parties, weddings and wedding receptions, and can comfortably seat up to 160 guests banquet-style, or can accommodate up to 200 guests for cocktail parties or lectures. A smaller room is also available for more intimate events, and a board room is available for your business meetings or smaller gatherings.

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