Franklin Museum

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Franklin Museum

Former site of Franklin College, which was established as a center of learning that would also instill high moral values, and operated from 1825-1921. It's founder, Rev. John Walker, maintained an uncompromising view against slavery. A Civil War Room contains specifics related to regiments from the Ohio Valley, as well as noted graduates which includes 8 US Senators, 9 US Representatives, 20 State Legislators and numerous judges. Among these noted graduates are John Bingham, Congressm and and chief deputy prosecutor of Lincoln's assassins, and Titus Basfield, an ex-slave who was one of the first black graduates from an Ohio institution of higher learning.

Other exhibits highlight days gone by, and feature an old fire fighting pumper, steam engine materials, printing methods, occupations of mining and farming, Armed Services and Boy Scout memorabiia, a classroom and library. The buildings changed over the years as the college grew. The current building was erected in 1900 after a fire destroyed the 4th building at its present location. Franklin College collapsed in 1921 and the building was used as a public school until 1987. It became a museum in 1990.

Address

Franklin Museum
187 North Main Street

New Athens, Ohio 43981

Phone Number(s)

Local Number: (740) 968-1042
Local Number: (740) 968-4066

Hours

Tuesday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Thursday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Special Hours: May thru September - May be opened by appointment upon request for individuals or groups

Admission

Adults: 5.00
All persons over the age of 10
Children: FREE
Age 10 and under

Accepted Forms of Payment

Cash, Check

Parking

FREE

Built in 1900 after fire destroyed the 4th building built for the college. In 1990, the building was designated as Franklin Museum. It is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places.