The Lawrence County Museum of History & Edward L. Hutton Research Library is located in the 100-year-old, Hamer-Smith building located downtown in Bedford, Indiana. The museum is home to many interesting artifacts that showcase the heritage and history of Lawrence County.
The exhibits engage, inspire, educate and preserve objects of lasting interest for current and future generations to enjoy. Regardless of your ties to the Lawrence County area, the Limestone Country heritage is something we love to celebrate and share with everyone!
The 2,400 square foot gallery focuses on military history, antique clothing, school history and various other topics.
In The Gallery
Golf Ball Carvings — Charles Walters has been carving golf balls since 1980. Several of his whimsical artistic golf balls are on display. Fish, holidays themes and animals are a few subjects carved from these dimpled round objects.
Spring Mill — The large 1934 replica of the gristmill and some of the village houses are currently on display in the museum. In addition, David Nord has created a poster presentation on Spring Mill transportation history. Both are located in the north end of the gallery.
Lawrence County Astronauts — Lawrence County is the home of three United States astronauts. Kenneth D. Bowersox and Charles D. Walker both hail from Bedford. Mitchell is the hometown of Virgil I. “Gus” Grissom, the second American in space. The Astronaut Exhibit is located in the north end of the gallery.
Women in History — Learn about a few of the many outstanding Lawrence County women in this new exhibit located in the center of the gallery.
Fabulous Dollhouse — In the early 1980s, hobby artist, Marjorie Bailey, created a lovely dollhouse to resemble her Hillcrest Circle home. Marjorie’s dollhouse is proudly placed on display in the front window.
Railroad — A digital display of the Bedford Route of the Southern Indiana Railway—The Milwaukee Road.
Bud Isaacs — Country music fans will enjoy the exhibit honoring Bedford native, Forrest “Bud” Isaacs. Isaacs revolutionized the steel guitar.
In addition to the many historical artifacts located throughout the gallery, visitors will also enjoy the Limestone Exhibit that showcases beautiful limestone carvings created by local artisans.
Genealogy
One of the most popular topics at the Edward L. Hutton Research Library is genealogy. Many visitors are interested in knowing their own personal connection to Lawrence County history. Lawrence County librarian, Joyce Shepard, is an expert on the topic and can help you conduct your own research to find your personal historical tie to Limestone Country.
There are many helpful resources including courthouse records, tax duplicates, military research, Quaker genealogy, DAR books, school yearbooks and much more to help facilitate your research.
While You’re Visiting
While you’re visiting Lawrence County, there are lots of fun things to do around town. Lawrence County is located within the rolling hills in Southern Indiana. Limestone County is home to special outdoor playground of caves, forests, rivers, Bluespring Caverns, Spring Mill State Park and is filled with downtown shopping and delicious dining options.
Spend the afternoon outside at Spring Mill State Park exploring the historical Pioneer Village. Take a short trip down the road and visit the Grissom Memorial to learn more about the astronaut that changed the history of space travel as we know it! Take a stroll throughout downtown Bedford to do some shopping and indulge in some delicious food.
Click here to learn more about all there is to do in Limestone Country.
