Museums, Libraries & Historical Societies
While the Lewis County Historical Society is the first place you should visit, we are not the only place that should be on your list. The County has a number of other worthwhile historical museums, libraries and local historical societies. We are happy to point you in the right direction, make introductions for you, or help you arrange visits.
Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Farm Museum
Situated in the historic family home of emigres from Alsace-Lorraine who made their way to Lewis County as indentured servants in the 1830s, this museum preserves the religious and cultural heritage of the Mennonite community and its Anabaptist origins in northern New York. Interesting local artifacts and public exhibits, encouraging of original historical research, and focused on the unique value of the farm in the life and faith of an important group of the area’s settlers, this museum is a must-see.
American Legion Military Museum
To honor Lewis County’s military history, the American Legion’s War Museum covers wars dating back to the Spanish—American War (1898) and every war since. It contains photographs, uniforms, weapons, medals and other artifacts.
American Maple Museum
Preserving the history of the North American Maple Syrup industry, with exhibits depicting sugar making techniques from those used by early Native Americans to the plastic tubing and stainless steel evaporators in use today, the museum is housed in the former Father Leo Memorial School building. This is one sweet place to visit.
Constable Hall Museum
Located in one of the most unique and beautiful limestone mansions in Lewis County – the former manor house of the Constable family – this is one of the most worthwhile historic museums in the State.
Lyons Falls History Association
Housed behind the Falls Pharmacy in Lyons Falls, this history association operates a small (call ahead) museum and maintains an extensive collection of photographs, diaries, postcards, letters, ledgers and books pertaining to Lyons Falls and its environs.
Martinsburg Historical Society
Housed in the historic 1811 Martinsburg Town Hall, this society is the primary organization that collects artifacts and documents reflecting the history of this small town.
North American Fiddlers’ Hall of Fame and Museum
Run by the New York State Old Tyme Fiddlers’ Association, this organization is dedicated to the preservation, promotion and perpetuation of the art of old time fiddling and the dances associated with it.
Railroad Society of Northern New York
Housed in the converted old Lowville and Beaver River Railway depot in Croghan, the society and museum are dedicated to preserving the age of the Iron Horse. Real trains, model trains and even rides.
Storms-Bailey Home Museum
Owned by the Lyons Falls History Association, this little museum exhibits the history of the Gould Paper Mill, the Lyons Falls region, military uniforms from various wars, as well as memorabilia from the Storms-Bailey family.
Town of Diana Historical Museum
Housed in the historic Harrisville Railroad Depot, this museum is filled with history and memorabilia from the Town of Diana, the village of Harrisville and other small local hamlets in the area.