Wayne County History Museum is housed in the former Wayne County Jail and sheriff's residence, just a few blocks from downtown Lyons and the Erie Canal (Lock 57).
The museum offers three floors of local history displays, a two-story carriage house, and thematic exhibitions. Visitors can also visit the historic jails onsite!
UNLOCK HISTORY!
Dedicating “True Valor”
Civil War monument honors soldiers
As we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, Wayne County Historical Society is also paying homage to the Civil War, which was pivotal to our region. The monument “True Valor” will be installed this summer in Central Park of Lyons, in honor of the thousands of boys and men from Wayne County who fought in the Civil War between 1861 and 1865.
Three Union soldiers of the 111th NY Volunteer Regiment will be depicted life-size in bronze, mounted on a rose granite pedestal in the center of a 40-foot circular concrete patio. The monument scene depicts an infantryman protecting a color bearer as he retrieves the flag from a fallen soldier.
A dedication ceremony is planned for Saturday, Aug. 22, with a variety of festivities and events planned, including a new military exhibition at the Wayne County History Museum and in the park Civil War re-enactors and live music of the era.
The famed sculptor creating “True Valor” is Gary Casteel, who has created dozens of bronze sculptures, including several installed at Gettysburg National Military Park.
Funding for “True Valor” and related events is made possible through a donation to the Wayne County Historical Society by the Isaac Mullie Foundation.
America 250
Celebrating our nation's birthday
Throughout 2026 residents and visitors across Wayne County will be invited to explore our national identity through programs celebrating and educating about America’s 250th birthday — 1776 to 2026!
Historians are creating engaging “America 250” programs around Revolutionary-era themes that shaped the nation and continue to influence us today. Programs include:
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Brewing Conflicts: Lively history-based discussions in local venues, mirroring how Revolutionary War issues were debated
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Driving History Tours: Self-guided tours through Wayne County’s historic countryside to explore the people and places that shaped the region.
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Speaking Engagements: One keynote presentation will feature nationally recognized author and Ontario native Jack Kelly.
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Educational Outreach: Public access and awareness promoted via schools, libraries, media, and online.
The “America 250” programs are made possible through support from the New York State Department of Education, presented in partnership with Wayne County historians, historical societies, and community organizations and venues.
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VOLUNTEERS
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Please fill out the volunteer contact form.
INTERNSHIPS
College and high school students are invited
to contact us to fulfill required hours of internship toward any major or civic participation.