Chariton County Historical Society
The Historical Society was founded in 1956 by a group of people with a strong interest in preserving the heritage and history of Chariton County. The first museum opened in the 1960s in the Lincoln School–a former segregated Black school–and then moved to what is now Peace Lutheran Church in Salisbury.
The increasing number of artifacts collected soon outgrew that space and the present museum building–the former Fellow’s Hatchery– became available in 1971. After considerable renovation, the present museum opened to the public in the late 1970s. The museum actually encompasses four adjoining buildings all built prior to 1893.
The museum houses history from nearly every decade since Chariton County’s inception. They even boast a “Main Street” which includes replications of telephone offices, movie theatres, churches, schools and even pieces from the historic county jail before it had to be torn down. Main Street is a popular attraction of the museum for young and old alike.
The society is managed by a group of dedicated individuals who are all passionate about the history of Chariton County. They work to provide the public with historical resources and documentation, as well as to preserve the collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and other memorabilia.
Today, CCHS continues their mission of collecting, preserving, and exhibiting historical artifacts and records. They also assist with historical and genealogical research, and work to engage the community and educate on local history. If you are interested in being a part of CCHS and supporting our mission, they will welcome you as a member! In fact, members are on hand from 1 pm until 3 pm today so that participants in the scavenger hunt can view artifacts and the new addition of the museum after completing the hunt. Thank you to the museum for opening today and for their contribution to the stops on today’s adventure.
Clue
Your last stop today! Today’s scavenger hunt has given you a peak into what the Salisbury Canvas Cruise can be as we develop and research all the places. Please finish today’s fundraiser by checking out the location where the 14 foot by 84 foot Salisbury IS mural will soon appear. Thank you for your support of the Salisbury Chamber of Commerce and the Salisbury Canvas Cruise.