About Our Organization

Established in 1968, the Ohio County Historical Society opened the Rising Sun History Museum in 1972. Housed in a 19th century plow factory, most of the contents have been donated by Ohio County residents, their families, and friends. Displays focus on the 1800′s and early 20th century life and events. Included in the displays is an AUTO-HARP, the first coin-operated music player.

The best known item in the collection is the racing boat, HOOSIER BOY, famous race boat of the early 1900′s. The boat holds the record between Cincinnati and Louisville, round trip, at 60 mph. It was designed, built and raced by J. W. Whitlock of Rising Sun. On October 5, 2003, the HOOSIER GIRL, the sister boat to the HOOSIER BOY, came home. The HOOSIER GIRL was built in the 1940's after the first one (built 1908) sunk. She is an exact duplicate of the original boat.

The Ohio County Historical Society Museum has the finest historical collection in southeastern Indiana.

Our Mission

To promote the heritage of Ohio County through the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts pertaining to local and area history, by means of the Ohio County Historical Society and its educational programs

Become a Volunteer

We're glad you're interested in volunteering at the Museum!

We are looking for volunteers to help out inside the Museum, meet and greet visitors and answer the phones.

Volunteers will ideally work 2-4 hours per week, according to the Museum's needs at a particular time.

Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm -

weekends 12 noon to 4pm

Special Events

Volunteer for the whole days or for just part of a day.

Please call (812) 438-4915 for details.

STUDENTS..... we are an approved COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS PROVIDER......