Our History
In 1970, the Alabama Historical Commission, in an effort to encourage smaller communities throughout the state to collect, record, and preserve their local histories, instituted statewide organizational meetings of interested citizens. One such meeting was held in Wetumpka and led by the late Jeanette E. Barrett, former Wetumpka mayor and employee of the Alabama Historical Commission. The organizational meeting was attended by six or eight people who thought it was important to organize a local historical society, and the Elmore County Historical Society was formed. In May 1971, the charter for the organization was signed by about 100 Elmore County residents. Through the years, the Elmore County Historical Society, in conjunction with the Elmore County Museum, has sponsored various activities such as walking tours, arts programs, cemetery tours, and special exhibits at the museum to promote and preserve local heritage.
The Museum
The Elmore County Museum is a small, yet dynamic institution that aims to share the stories of Elmore County and its people. The museum features permanent as well as temporary exhibits, and provides educational programs year-round. The museum was housed in several locations before its permanent home in the historic Elmore County Post Office. Originally created by the Elmore County Historical Society, the museum has been administered by the City of Wetumpka since 2015.
General Membership
Membership is open to all persons or organizations interested in the history of Elmore County, Alabama. All persons or organizations desiring to help foster the stated objects and purposes of said Society may become members by requesting membership and paying membership dues. Membership is not restricted to residents of Elmore County but is open to anyone with a legitimate interest in the history and heritage of Elmore County and the preservation of its memory and historical landmarks. The amount required for annual dues is $20.00.
Dec 14 at 2:30pm
Elmore 250 Celebration presents: A Colonial Christmas at the Museum
Step back in time this holiday season and experience the sights, sounds, and traditions of an 18th century Christmas! Join us at the Elmore County Museum as we bring history to life with candlelit decorations, recipes, and the history of candle making. Enjoy seasonal music, and take in the simple beauty of Christmas long before tinsel and electric lights. For more information call the Elmore County Museum at (334)567-5097.
Jan 11th @ 2:30pm
Elmore 250 Celebration presents: Continental Navy in the Revolutionary War
The Continental Navy was the naval force of the American colonies during the Revolutionary War, established by the Continental Congress in 1775 to intercept British supply lines. Learn more about the fascinating history of the Continental Navy during the Revolutionary War from living historian Michael Araiza.
The event will be held at 2:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the City of Wetumpka's Administration Building at 408 S Main Street, Wetumpka.
For more information call 334-567-5097 or email us at elmorecountymuseum@gmail.com.
Feb 1st @ 2:30
The Proof Is In the Dough
Join us at the Elmore County Museum on February 1 at 2:30 p.m. as Dr. Kathryn L. Beasley discusses her book The Proof is in the Dough: Rural Southern Women, Extension, and Making Money. In this engaging program, Dr. Beasley highlights a lesser-known chapter of rural women’s history—how women involved in home demonstration used newly learned skills to improve their economic opportunities. It’s a fascinating look at resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of community education.
The event will be held at 2:30 p.m. at the Elmore County Museum.
For more information, call 334-567-5097 or email us at elmorecountymuseum@gmail.com
Feb 26th @ 2:30pm
Elmore 250 Celebration presents: My True Roots to the American Revolution
Family historian, U.S. Army Veteran and DAR member True Lewis will share the search for her elusive Revolutionary War ancestor on Thursday, February 26 at 10 a.m.
The event will be held at the Wetumpka Civic Center 410 S. Main St, Wetumpka, AL 36092.
For more information, call 334-567-5097 or email us at elmorecountymuseum@gmail.com
Mar 15th @ 2:30pm
Elmore 250 Celebration presents: Desirous of establishing permanent peach: Alexander McGillivray, George Washington, and the Treaty of New York"
Dr. Alex Colvin, public programs curator at the Alabama Department of Archives and History will present the program.
Following the American Revolution, Alexander McGillivray became a diplomat and negotiator for Creek towns. After initially working with the Spanish in Mobile and Pensacola, McGillivray turned to the burgeoning federal government of the United States to establish peace and trade. The resulting Treaty of 1790 was a significant and controversial document for both the United States and Creek, forever changing their diplomatic relationship with one another.
The event will be held at 2:30 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the Historic Elmore County Courthouse, 100 E. Commerce Street, Wetumpka 36092
For more information, call 334-567-5097 or email us at elmorecountymuseum@gmail.com
JOIN US AND HELP SUPPORT LOCAL HISTORY
Become a member!
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board meets once a month at the Elmore County Museum on Tuesday at 6 p.m.
President, Calvin Chappelle
VP, Sharon Fox
Treasurer, Gale Skinner
Secretary, Janice Massey
Janet Cox
Robert Johnston
Jackie Earnest
Rozanne Braswell