Dr. J.P. Cowan, a physician and member of the Ohio State Legislature and United States Congress, had the Manor House and accompanying Carriage House built in the 1850’s. Its stately appearance, thick walls and high ceilings made it a landmark, and possibly the first brick house built on what would later be known as Center Street. The house has been enlarged and remodeled several times–in 1906, 1920 and 1958.
In 1981, after the generous people of Ashland County supported a fundraising drive, the Ashland County Historical Society was able to purchase the house and grounds.
The Eloise Ridgeway Noonan House was built in 1999 after a bequest from the estate of Eloise Noonan, long-time board member and supporter of the Society and museum. It is safe to say that without her help over the years, the museum would not exist today.
The Noonan House is the administrative hub of the museum. The offices of the Director and of Programming and Acquisitions are there. The Betty Plank Research Library rounds out the first floor. The library holds books of general interest regarding antiques and collectibles, as well as items pertaining to Ashland specifically, such as city directories and histories of the county. Our archives hold clippings and photos of events, people, businesses and homes. The library and archives are accessible during business hours, either by stopping in or by contacting the office. Our office staff is always glad to look something up for interested parties.
The Streetscape rules the second floor. When you step off the elevator, it is as if you were transported to downtown Ashland at the turn of the 19th century. The lower level houses the Ashland County Sports Hall of Fame, honoring great athletes from our county. It is also home to our Veterans History Committee’s collection of weapons and other military collectibles from the Spanish American War, the Civil War, and both World Wars.
any of the articles in the Carriage House were donated by members of the Thornburg family, most especially Robert Thornburg, who sat on our board and acquisitions team for many years. The first floor of the Carriage House consists mainly of exhibits of industrial items from companies that served and employed Ashland residents. Myers, Faultless, National Latex, Hess and Clark, Garber's and others are featured. The second floor is largely taken up with the Thornburg Insect Collection. It is, as far as we know, the second largest collection in the United States. "The Cabin" is also on the second floor. Our wonderful volunteers have worked so hard to recreate the inside of a cabin, complete with a rope bed, fireplace, and items from the home of the Carters, one of the first families to settle here 200 years ago.
Guests will find antique farm tools and a wagon built in the 1800’s by John Studebaker and George Myers whose children became famous for the Studebaker automotive industry and F.E. Myers & Bro. pump company.