WELCOME

To the Clinton County History Center in Wilmington, Ohio
Located at 149 E. Locust St. Wilmington OH 45177 | Mailing Address: PO Box 529

Our Mission is to encourage community involvement in the preservation, education, and promotion of Clinton County history and genealogy for the benefit of all people.

 Your History. Your Voice. Your Impact.

Take Our 2024-2025 Community Survey

At the Clinton County History Center, we’re dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories that make our community unique. But we can’t do it alone—we need YOUR help to shape the future of our programs, exhibits, and events. Your feedback matters! Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a history enthusiast, or a lifelong supporter, we want to hear from you. This short, 5-minute survey is your chance to be entered to win a $100 gift card to the Historic General Denver Hotel & Restaurant and:

  • Share what you love about the History Center.

  • Tell us how we can improve and grow.
  • Help guide the future of Clinton County’s stories and heritage.

Why Your Input is Important?

Every response helps us better serve our community, from designing new exhibits to planning events that inspire and educate. Together, we can create a History Center that reflects YOUR voice and interests.

Join Us in Making History

Your participation is more than feedback—it’s a contribution to preserving Clinton County’s legacy for generations to come. Thank you for being part of our journey!

antique Abolitionist Quilt

Learn about the Clinton County Historical Society.

antique photo of Hains Sisters posing together

Learn about the Clinton County Genealogical Society.

Beyond the Scoreboard exhibit now an OLHA Outstanding Achievement Award recipient

 

Ohio Local History Alliance has selected the Clinton County History Center’s Beyond the Scoreboard museum exhibit for an Outstanding Achievement Award in the category of Exhibits or Displays. The award will be presented to Shelby Boatman at the OLHA Annual Meeting Awards luncheon on Saturday, October 5, 2024. Until then, be sure to stop by the museum before the end of the year to view this outstanding two-room display of county sports history and memorabilia!

Step into the exhilarating world of Clinton County sports in our latest exhibit, where we celebrate the vibrant history and enduring legacy of athletics in our community. From the early days of grassroots competitions to modern-day sporting triumphs, this exhibition offers a captivating journey through the heart and soul of Clinton County’s athletic culture. Discover the evolution of sports in our region as you explore displays, rare memorabilia, and engaging narratives that highlight the pivotal moments, legendary rivalries, and remarkable achievements that have shaped our local sporting landscape. From the adrenaline rush of game-winning touchdowns to the graceful precision of championship-winning slam dunks, every aspect of Clinton County sports is brought to life in this immersive showcase. Through compelling exhibits and insightful storytelling, visitors of all ages will gain a deeper appreciation for the role sports have played in shaping our community’s identity, fostering camaraderie, and inspiring generations of athletes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply curious about the history of sports in Clinton County, this exhibition promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the enduring spirit of athletic excellence and sportsmanship that defines our proud community. Join us as we celebrate the triumphs, honor the legends, and showcase the rich sporting heritage of Clinton County within our latest exhibit, Beyond The Scoreboard: An Exhibit Celebrating Clinton County Sports Throughout The Years,  now on display at the Clinton County History Center through December 2024.

Interested  in serving on the Historical Society’s Board of Trustees?

We are accepting applications of interest to join the board as positions becoming available. This form is an opportunity to submit your name to our pool of potential candidates for future appointments. Your submission, though valued, doesn’t necessarily guarantee your selection. We appreciate your participation and board positions are reliant on available openings. Thank you! 

History Center’s Blog:

Another Part of The Story – Part 2

This was written by Genealogical Society volunteer, Beth Mitchell for the Wilmington News Journal As Paul Harvey might have said – and now the rest of the story. Matthew Rombach, father-in-law of General Denver, has an interesting history. It seems much more...

Another Part of The Story – Part 1

This was written by Genealogical Society volunteer, Beth Mitchell for the Wilmington News Journal As our volunteers in the genealogical society continue to work on our many projects, we sometimes find a previously unknown or unnoted tidbit that may help fill in a...

The Commercial Club

Written by Genealogical Society research library volunteer, Beth Mitchell. We often find a “movement” in a community that may have long-lasting effects.  It appears the Commercial Club of Wilmington may have been one of those entities that shaped the  business history...

Deed Dilemmas

Written and compiled by Genealogical Society research volunteer, Beth Mitchell.  I have mentioned before about the treasures in the deed books. If you were researching this family, you might be doing a happy dance with all the information given – or perhaps you would...

It Wasn’t Always Cash!

This story was written by Genealogical Society volunteer, Beth Mitchell, who holds nearly 35 years of experience with the archival records at the History Center.  If you are interested in history the early deed books may produce some real treasures. It seems that,...

The Clinton County History Center

Chartered in 1948, the Clinton County Historical Society purchased its museum home in 1955.  This site is on the National Register of Historic Places as the home of Brigadier General James W. Denver (for whom Denver, Colorado was named). The History Center is a multi-function facility operated by the Clinton County Historical and Genealogical Societies.  The Center includes a touring museum with exhibits and special displays; research library; manuscript, photographic and reference archives; textile and artifact repository; conference center for meetings and educational programs; and serves as the business office for the History Center.

Rombach Place Wilmington Ohio

2024 Public Hours of the History Center:

Historical Society’s Museum – $5 for non-member self touring / $10 for docent led 

  • Thursdays, 1:00PM – 4:00PM
  • Fridays, 1:00PM – 4:00PM
  • Saturdays, 10:00AM – 2:00PM
  • Additional visits by appointment

Genealogical Society’s Research Library – $5 per non-member

  • Thursdays, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
  • Fridays, 1:00PM – 4:00PM
  • Saturdays, 10:00AM – 2:00PM
  • Additional visits by appointment

The Center is closed on the following observed holidays: New Year’s Day, July 4th , Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve. Please call (937) 382-4684 or visit our social media during other holidays to confirm we are open.

The Clinton County History Center and Rombach Place Museum are handicapped accessible.

Clinton County History Center