Our Library is a Goshen History Treasure Chest
What you'll find here...
- Books written by local authors, Goshen High School year books, reference books, and old family Bibles
- Historic photographs, post cards, posters, ads and newspapers
- Old records, ledgers and documentation from former Goshen businesses, clubs, and civic organizations
- Letters and handwritten accounts from Goshen citizens
- Maps and property information
- Volumes of content sorted by topic, such as local farms, schools, businesses, families, churches, etc.
Our research volunteers can provide you with information on almost any local topic or subject. Email the GTHS Historian with your research request. We use our own resources, as well as county records, Ancestry.com, and more to provide you with documented and reliable information. We can also provide resources for those who want to do their own investigating, such as a guide on how to research your historic home.
The Story of Goshen History Library
The History Library
In 2018 our History Library was created to showcase the wealth of books, photos, and ephemera in the GTHS collection. Located in our museum, a 19th century stone house, this area was originally a porch addition, which was converted to a kitchen in 1928. Fast forward to 2017, when member Tim Johnson stepped forward to offer both a plan and the skilled labor to transform this under utilized area into a much needed library and adjoining office. Using reclaimed lumber from a dismantled barn that once stood on the property, Tim built a reference library with historic charm, while discretly inserting lighting, appliances and technology we had previously done without. Wherever possible, Tim repurposed vintage finds to give the space function without sacrificing the character of this nearly 100 year old addition. Our History Library is dedicated to Elaine Didday, a GTHS founding member and our first librarian. Elaine spent years amassing documents and photos, painstakingly organizing binders of information and hundreds of obituaries, documenting events, and researching local history. Her efforts laid the foundation for our current collection. Today, we continue to research and record Goshen area history and are proud to display and share our collection in this unique setting.
CLICK HERE to contact the GTHS Librarian.