A pair of well-restored 20th-century mansions in the charming University Circle district are home to a fine museum dedicated to Cleveland history.
Since its founding in 1867, the Western Reserve Historical Society has become one of the foremost historical societies in the United States. In 1940, the society took as its base a pair of fine mansions called the Bingham-Hanna House and the Hay-McKinney House. Pay a visit to these two historic houses to see the grandeur of their original fittings and furnishings, as well as a series of displays dedicated to the life of Cleveland past.
The Western Reserve Historical Society remains one of the most valuable historical resources in the city. On top of the exhibits, a library with a vast collection of local records provides an invaluable resource for area historians. As you make your way through the two 20th-century mansions, you will encounter stylish cars alongside information about Cleveland’s time as a leading automotive producer, an extensive historical costume exhibition, and much more.
Explore the great houses and take time to admire their interior decorations. Highlights include the Hay-McKinney House’s fine back staircase and its ornately furnished dining areas. If you would like to find out more about the mansions’ history, sign up for a free guided tour.
Head to the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum section to learn about the era when Cleveland was a leading manufacturer of cars and planes. More than 150 objects bring this impressive past to life. Look out for a 1897 Panhard Levassor, the first ever enclosed car on the market, and catch a glimpse of the first Delorean ever to be made.
At the Chisholm Halle Costume Wing, you will find an exhibition of clothes from the 18th century through to the present day. More than 40,000 items are contained in the collection, although the public display often changes. Young children will enjoy playing and learning the Kidzibits Family Education Center and Backyard of History.
A variety of interesting temporary exhibits also take place at the Society. Follow your visit with a refreshment at the on-site café or a quick browse through the gift shop. The Society’s library is open from Thursday to Saturday.
The Western Reserve Historical Society is open every day except for Sunday mornings, Mondays, and major U.S. public holidays. Admission costs a fee, but tours are included there are discounts for children. The University Circle district, where the Society is located, is well served by rapid trains and busses. Parking is available for a fee.
