Jefferson City, Missouri
Address
109 Madison Street
Jefferson City, MO 65109

Admissions

Adults $3.00
Youth (grades K-12) $1.00
Children under 5 - free

Museum Type(s)

Staff

Rose Mengwasser
phone: 573-635-1850
Nancy Thompson
phone:
Anne Gue
phone:
e-mail:
Karlene Dieckroeger
phone:
e-mail:
Geri Rozier
phone:
e-mail:
Description

Our mission is to collect, preserve and share the history of Cole County and its people. Our museum is located in two of three row houses that actually predate the Governor's Mansion which is across the street. We have exhibits on 4 floors, accessible by elevator, docents accompany tours to explain our displays and answer questions. Our courtyard patio, presently under construction between the main building and the Upschulte House, will enable us to accommodate groups for special events.

History

The Cole County Historical Society was formed as a not-for-profit organization July 24, 1941. The dedication of the original Society members and those who quickly joined made it possible to purchase the original Museum building in 1946, and to complete the necessary renovation prior to the official opening at a reception on May 17, 1948. In 1999, the building next door was purchased and remodeled, essentially doubling available floor space for the museum. Our research library was added at that time.

Artifact Collections
The Society's collections include furniture, paintings, pictures, records, documents, and other artifacts directly related to the history of Cole County, including its role as the seat of Missouri State government. Special displays include inaugural gowns
Research Collections
Since its inception, the Cole County Historical Society has developed a valuable and select library collection. It includes only those items that originated in, or otherwise pertain to Cole County. Emphasis has always been and remains on the historical dev
Educational Programs

Docents are on duty at the museum to give guided tours and explain our exhibits. We also have a suitcase program has been under way since 1974 as a way to take our museum into the community. Volunteers dress in period costume, pack a suitcase with smaller museum objects and travel to sites in the surrounding communities. They present a program that is both educational and entertaining, using the items from their suitcase to illustrate their story.

Governance

Not for profit organization with elected officers and a governing board. Staffed entirely by volunteers.

Library
Access: General Public, Students, Scholars, Members
Appointment required: No
Publications

Our newsletter, News and Notes, is published quarterly and sent to members. A copy is posted on our web site for viewing.

Cole County Historical Society News & Notes
Exhibitions
Museum Events
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MUSEUM CONFERENCES

Georgia Association of Museums 2025 Conference

February 5 - 7, 2025

Milledgeville, Georgia

Small Museum Association 41st Annual Conference 2025

February 17 - 19, 2025

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2025 California Association of Museums Conference

February 18 - 22, 2025

San Fransico, California

Virginia Association of Museum's 2025 Annual Conference!

March 15 - 18, 2025

Blacksburg, Virginia

2025 Am Assoc for State and Local History Annual Conference

September 10 - 13, 2025

Cincinnati, Ohio

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