PAOLI – The Orange County Historical Society held its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 22nd, at the Paoli Library, featuring a captivating presentation by Janet Newton and updates on numerous ongoing projects.
Newton’s program focused on the life and work of early 20th-century photographer A.E. Pierson, offering attendees a glimpse into his background and artistic contributions. A highlight of her presentation was an incredible display of old Orange County postcards captured by Pierson in the early 1900s, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the county’s past.
Society President Robert Henderson provided a comprehensive update on the group’s recent activities. He noted that the Orange County Historic Museum continues to draw visitors from afar, with guests this month hailing from Covington, Fort Wayne, Sellersburg, and Louisville, KY.
Henderson also announced exciting news regarding a brand-new segment on Orange County airing on Bloomington’s WTIU program, “Journey Indiana.” The feature includes a special focus on the Orange County Historic Museum, for which film crews spent a full day at the museum gathering footage back in February.
Looking ahead, plans are well underway for “An Autumn Homecoming at the Farmhouse,” a living history event slated for late October at the historic Lindley House. More specific details about this event are expected to be announced soon.
In commemoration of a significant milestone, Henderson reported continued progress for Orange County’s America 250 Celebration. The Society is partnering with OC America 250 to tentatively mark the 175th Anniversary of the historic Orange County Courthouse in mid-September.
Vice President Roger Moon shared details about the Society’s “Orange County America 250” Time Capsule Project. Packets containing all the necessary information on how to participate in this unique historical initiative are now available for pick-up at the Orange County Historic Museum.
The meeting also featured Brandon Query from the Orange County Community Foundation, who discussed marketing materials and campaign ideas for the Society’s ambitious “Barn Raising” Project at the historic Lindley House. The Society is actively seeking a 1850s-type barn structure for relocation to the Lindley House property. This barn would serve as a vital educational tool, helping to bring Orange County Pioneer Farm Life to life for future generations. Individuals who know of a suitable barn or are interested in contributing to this project are encouraged to contact either Robert Henderson or Terry Cornwell.
The Orange County Historical Society meets on the Fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Paoli Library. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 26th.
For more information on the Orange County Historical Society and its diverse activities, interested individuals can contact Society President Robert F. Henderson at 812-653-1212, via email at info@historicorangecounty.org, or by visiting www.historicorangecounty.org. The Orange County Historical Society Facebook page also provides regular updates on the latest news and happenings.
