The LaPorte County Historical Society's Museum has over 80,000 items on display. Many are family heirlooms brought into the county by the original pioneers. They include furniture, household items, tools, and memorabilia. An extensive collection of antique toys and rare dolls is on display.
One of the largest and finest collections of antique weapons is on view. These items were the private collection of W.A. Jones, a Chicago industrialist and LaPorte County resident. He traveled the world on his quest to collect this display of over 800 specimens, some dating back 200 years or more.
Many products manufactured in the county by local industries, such as the Hobart M. Cable player piano and the "Headlight" stove, are highlighted in displays. In addition, an experimental electric car designed and built by a local orthodontist, can by viewed.
Period room settings showcase much of the collection. A pioneer log
cabin, Victorian parlor with a unique square grand piano, 1920's kitchen,
a business office and a dentist office of the past typify this aspect of
the museum displays.
The Museum is located in the LaPorte County Government Complex, 809 State
St., LaPorte, Indiana 46350-3329. Hours Tues - Fri 10 am - 5 pm. For further information telephone 219-326-6808,
ext. 276.