Welcome to the John Hay Center
The John Hay Center is committed to the preservation and remembrance of the heritage of Washington County, Indiana.
In 1965, with only 15 active members and $50.00, we became the benefactor of a former resident. Her generosity and that of hundreds of interested people (both monetary and volunteer) enabled us to build a facility known as the Stevens Museum. We also acquired the John Hay Birthplace., restored it to the 1840 period and placed it on the National Register of Historic Places.
The campus of historical assets, known as “The John Hay Center” was dedicated in 1971, debt free. In subsequent years, additions to the museum include opening the Dean Gallery on the 3rd floor, doubling the display space and building a two story wing to the library in 1984. The Pioneer Village on the grounds began in 1980 by moving and reassembling an authentic log cabin.
The John Hay Center Includes the Following
Stevens Memorial Museum
Built in 1970 as a memorial to preserve the community’s history, the Stevens Memorial Museum is the centerpiece of the John Hay Center, founded by the Washington County Historical Society. The museum was designed to preserve the heritage of Washington County, Indiana and contains dozens of exhibits representing thousands of artifacts from generous donors.
Genealogical Library
Our Genealogical Library is known nationwide for the outstanding collection of research material on local and affiliated history and is added to weekly by our staff, volunteers and patrons.
The Pioneer Village
The Pioneer Village is a replica of an 1830’s community featuring a jail, blacksmith, school, church, Haganman house, smoke house, barn, bell tower, loom house, and New Philadelphia Post Office and General Store. At various times during the year, volunteers portray renditions of various community figures such as the blacksmith, teacher or loom worker.
Birthplace of John Hay
John Hay was born in Salem on October 8, 1838. Hay’s birthplace is a small brick house on South College Avenue. It was built in 1824 for use as a school building. Dr. Charles Hay purchased the building in April of 1833. The Hay home was acquired by the Washington County Historical Society in 1967. The house has been restored and furnished in the 1840 period. The Hay birthplace has been a National Historic Site since 1971.
The Depot Railroad Museum
The stuff of dreams, now realized in one of the most modern, up-to-date railroad museums, The Depot transforms the great moments of a past era of Monon history into a reality to be remembered and enjoyed by countless visitors — those who remember they were once kids, and those who have the spark of adventure and intrigue that says they still are.
The Depot Railroad Museum is also home to The Monon Railroad Historical-Technical Society
The Monon Railroad Historical-Technical Society, Inc. was formed in the mid-1970s as a not-for-profit organization exclusively for educational purposes by a group of individuals interested in preserving the memory of the Monon Railroad.
Amphitheatre
From popular local bands, theatrical performances, movie screenings and much more coming to the John Hay Center Amphitheatre this year. Our new amphitheatre is located behind the Stevens Memorial Museum and nestled on a hill sloping down to the stage. Grab a picnic blanket and some snacks and make plans to attend an event this year.
We Look Forward to Seeing You at The John Hay Center
Keep in Touch with the John Hay Center
Latest John Hay Center News
2024 Board of Directors Election Results
Posted 11/18/2024
The 2024 WCHS Board Election Results are that Judy Harper and Tim Peace won seats on the board. Judy Harper will continue on the board in her own term after completing the term of a resigned board member. Tim Peace will be taking a seat following Katrina Humphrey's completed terms.
Capital Campaign for The John Hay Center
Posted 6/18/2024
200th Anniversary of the John Hay Birthplace
2024 marks the 200th year of the John Hay Birthplace located on The John Hay Center’s campus on College Avenue. The home was first built in 1824 as a grammar school run by educator John I. Morrison. The school soon outgrew the small building, so they left and the Hay family moved in in the early 1830s. John Hay, personal secretary to Abraham Lincoln and a statesman, was born in this house on October 8, 1838. The Hay family would move to Illinois in the early 1840s, and the house was sold to the Telle family who resided in it until the WCHS purchased it in 1966. The house was placed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1971.
Why Give?
Your financial support is essential to our success and will leave a lasting legacy as we continue our mission to collect and preserving Washington County history.
The purchase of a memorial brick will enshrine you or your loved one’s name alongside a monument of Washington County history, and provide support for our project to place
historically accurate doors on the Hay House.
Any further contribution will be recognized in our annual magazine The Historian and those who make contributions of $1,000 or more will be memorialized on our donor plaques at The Stevens Memorial Museum.
Click here to download a donation form
The John Hay Center is currently seeking applicants for the Depot Manager position.
Posted 12/12/2023
Ideal candidates will have the ability to engage and communicate with the general public and maintain productive working relationships. Must also possess the ability to recruit, develop and manage volunteers and have above average skills in critical thinking, analysis, organization, donor stewardship, develop relationships with community organizations, local government and individuals, lead fundraising and development efforts, including grants, individual giving and foundational giving, public speaking and written communications, a sense of humor, integrity and impeccable work ethic.
General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following; welcoming and assisting guests, answering phone calls, responding to voicemails and emails, maintaining daily reports of income and expenses, managing the Depot Gift Shop, creating and monitoring social media posts, collaborating with JHC staff and board members, working special events, offer contributions to our annual magazine, maintain supply inventory, schedule and manage rentals, perform light custodial duties, and completing tasks assigned by the Board of Directors.
This position is currently for Fridays and Saturdays only, from 10am to 5pm. Additional hours may be collected through rentals and special events. Further job information and a more comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities will be provided during interviews.
You can submit a resume or application for employment at the Stevens Memorial Museum, Wednesday through Saturday, from 10am to 5pm, 307 E. Market Street Salem, IN.
