Can you think of a better way to spend an afternoon than in a climate controlled environment that can enrich your mind with history? A visit to the Ray County Museum can do just that. The Museum is located at 901 West Royle Street in Richmond, near the fairgrounds. The building was built in 1910 by the county at a cost of $19,491 and was a totally modern building with electricity and indoor plumbing. It was the Ray County Poor farm from 1910 to 1960 when it became used as a rest home until 1971. The building is still owned by Ray County and is leased to Ray County Historical Society and Museum, Inc. This group was established in the 1950’s and found a permanent home in 1973 when they opened the Ray County Museum.
The Museum has local artifacts from the 1800’s through the present time in 37 rooms on three different floors. Exhibits include Civil War memorabilia, Indian artifacts, coal mining history, Daughter of the American Revolution, Mormon History and so much more pertaining to the past of Ray County.
The Ray County Historical Society and The Friends of the Museum work together operating the Museum. It’s also the home of the Ray County Genealogy Association which has a library housed in the museum. Volunteers from the Genealogy Association staff the library and are available to assist you in your genealogical quest.
The Museum, one of Richmond’s best kept secrets, is open year round, Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 4 pm. They sponsor many special events throughout the year. You can contact the Museum at 816-776-2305, visit the website, or follow now on Facebook!