WHO WE ARE

The Museum of Wayne County History, run by the Wayne County Historical Society (WCHS), is located in the historic village of Lyons, New York - the Wayne County seat.  

The museum is housed in the former Wayne County Jail and Sheriff's residence built in 1856 and used until 1960. Both cellblocks are intact, with original inmate artwork and graffiti on the walls. Learn the stories of some of the inmates that served time at the jail. Tour three floors of exhibition space, which include the stunning Lyons Pottery & Clyde Glass Gallery, the Military Room with artifacts from the French and Indian War up to Desert Storm; a Victorian-era child's bedroom, and much more. The museum is located at 21 Butternut Street; just a short walk from lock #27 and up Church Street from the town square.  
Guided tours are available but please call in advance to schedule. The two-story carriage house is also available to tour in the summer season. For tour information click here.

The Wayne County Historical Society is actively involved in promoting Wayne County's Bicentennial, which kicked off on April 11, 2023 with a newly unveiled historic marker in front of the old Courthouse. For Bicentennial news, updates, and information click here.