About Us

At the heart of the Wayne County Historical Society is our commitment to safeguarding the rich heritage of Wayne County and ensuring this precious legacy thrives for generations to come. We are dedicated to:

• Educating the Public: Through engaging educational programs and by publishing important historical documents, we strive to ignite a passion for our past in the hearts of our community members.
• Preserving History: We maintain a comprehensive genealogy and local history library alongside our museum, where written materials and artifacts that capture the essence of Wayne County's history are meticulously cared for.
• Celebrating Our Heritage: We actively promote the preservation of historic buildings and sites, ensuring that the physical landmarks of our past remain a part of our future.
• Community Collaboration: By working hand-in-hand with local organizations and individuals, we amplify the message and importance of preserving Wayne County’s historical treasures.

Together, we are keeping history alive and relevant, making it accessible to everyone in our community and beyond. Join us in this vital mission to protect and promote our historical resources in Wayne County, Kentucky.

Our Founding Story

The roots of the Wayne County Historical Society stretch back to a winter day on January 31, 1977, when eleven visionary individuals gathered at the Wayne County Public Library. Although the full list of attendees remains undiscovered, a report from the Wayne County Outlook confirms that Martha Phillips, Matilda Rankin, Elizabeth Duncan, and Bennie Coffey were elected as officers. Bess Stokes, Grace Brown, Virginia Rankin, and Lisle Roberts were pivotal as members of the initial steering committee.

For over three decades, the Wayne County Historical Society has dedicated itself to collecting and organizing genealogical information. However, amassing this data is only valuable if it is both accessible and searchable—goals that we continually strive to achieve.

Our Commitment to Preserving History

The society first operated out of the Wayne County Courthouse and later moved its library to the basement of the Public Library. A milestone was achieved when the society acquired the historic Hotel Breeding, transforming the former hotel coffee shop into the society's new library space and setting the stage for the establishment of our museum. This journey from a simple meeting to establishing a permanent home highlights the dedication and passion that have driven the Wayne County Historical Society from its inception.

These founders took a significant step forward on May 7, 1977, when Martha W. Phillips, Matilda Rankin, Elizabeth F. Duncan, Bess A. Stokes, Bennie Coffey, Sr., Proctor Rankin, and Grace B. Brown formally signed the “Articles of Incorporation of Wayne County Historical Society, Inc.” These important documents were officially recorded on June 16, 1978, marking the legal birth of the society.

Housed within the Wayne County Museum, the Elizabeth Furr Duncan Library serves as a central hub for genealogists seeking to explore their Wayne County lineage. Our library boasts an impressive collection of Wayne County family files, books, and records, including approximately 25,000 obituaries, and growing repositories of birth and marriage records. Researchers travel from across the country and around the world to delve into our resources.

Notably, the library holds a vast collection of around 7,000 photographs that vividly illustrate the history, events, and families of Wayne County, allowing visitors to visually connect with their past.

Our library staff is always ready to assist with your inquiries. We handle all questions on a "time available" basis. Fees may be applicable to the research services provided by our staff. Please visit our library page to learn more.

Quarterly General Meetings

Join us at the Wayne County Historical Society for our quarterly general meetings, which are open to both members and the public. These meetings are held on the third Tuesday of January, April, July, and October at 6 PM. Each meeting not only covers important updates and discussions about our ongoing projects and initiatives but also features an engaging after-program. These programs typically delve into the history and culture of the area, offering attendees a deeper understanding and appreciation of Wayne County's rich heritage.

Whether you're a long-time member or a new visitor interested in local history, these meetings provide a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, learn about our activities, and enjoy presentations that bring our community’s past to life. We look forward to welcoming you and exploring the fascinating aspects of our local history together.