Monroe County History Center

  • 202 E. 6th Street
  • Bloomington, IN 47408
  • (812) 332-2517

The Monroe County History Center strives to collect, interpret, and present the genealogy, history, and artifacts of Monroe County in order to best depict the heritage & culture of the community. The museum is located in a historical building that was previously a Carnegie Library, and before that, a school for Black children in late 1800s and early 1900s. Here, you can learn about the history of Bloomington's limestone industry, Monroe County transportation, local sports & athletes, and more. The History Center also features rotating exhibits throughout the year. 

Admission: Free for children ages 0-5 years, $1.00 per child ages 6-12 years, and $2.00 per adult.

42nd Annual Garage Sale

  • June 9, 2023 - June 10, 2023
  • (812) 332-2517

June 9, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm June 10, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm June 12, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm The largest garage sale in Monroe County returns to 4015 Profile Parkway. The warehouse is packed with treasures that are just waiting to be claimed. From antiques to household items, there is... Learn more

Bloomington Pride Portraits by Garrett Ann Walters

Garrett Ann Walters is a Bloomington-based portrait photographer interested in celebrating LGBTQ+ life in Southern Indiana through her work. Since 2021, Garrett has been documenting Bloomington Pridefest through casual, joyful snapshots on medium-format film. Enjoy a selection of her Pridefest... Learn more

To the Soldiers of All Wars: Restoring the Alexander Memorial

For nearly 100 years, the Alexander Memorial has stood on the Monroe County Courthouse lawn in honor of and in remembrance of Monroe County veterans. In 2022, after 6 years of dedicated work by our community, the memorial was restored to its original condition. To the Soldiers of All Wars:... Learn more

We Paint... Historic Bloomington

The Bloomington Watercolor Society’s annual show is Historic Bloomington and Monroe County. The exhibit features the people, places, and things of our community. Through research and consultation, the society’s members share historical information with their paintings. Subjects include the... Learn more

Limestone Heroes in Rose Hill Cemetery

Join members of the History Center Cemetery Committee for a tour of Rose Hill Cemetery! Learn about different headstone styles and carvings that are a part of our rich limestone industry history. To maintain an engaging conversation, tour capacity is limited to 20. Rain date is June... Learn more

Pride Portrait Pop-Up

Swing by the History Center to get your portrait taken by the incredible Garrett Ann Walters! While you visit, check out highlights from her Pridefest portrait series, on display through September 2. This event is free and open to the public. No appointment necessary. Light refreshments... Learn more

"Solar Eclipse of the Heart"

Exhibit: "Solar Eclipse of the Heart," January 9 to April 13, 2024, will highlight the history of solar eclipses in Monroe County and share personal historical accounts from local witnesses. Learn more