Pickaway County museums

Winter is a season that encourages slowing down, and Pickaway County offers plenty of ways to spend it well. Museums throughout Ashville and Circleville invite visitors to explore stories of everyday life, music, creativity, and community at a comfortable pace. These indoor experiences pair naturally with downtown shopping, a relaxed lunch, or a stop for coffee, turning history into an enjoyable outing.

Ohio’s Small Town Museum

34 Long Street, Ashville, Ohio 43103

Ohio’s Small Town Museum tells the story of everyday life through the objects and traditions that shaped small communities across Ohio. Operated by the Ashville Area Historical Society, the museum focuses on work, transportation, household life, and local innovation.

Founded in the 1970s by residents determined to preserve their history, the museum reflects deep community pride. Visitors often enjoy exploring the exhibits before walking through the village or stopping nearby for lunch or shopping.

Clarke-May Museum

162 West Union Street, Circleville, Ohio 43113

The Clarke-May Museum offers a glimpse into life in Circleville during the mid nineteenth century. The brick home, built in the 1840s, once served as both the residence and dental office of Dr. Edward Clarke.

Inside, period furnishings, family artifacts, and a restored dentist’s office help tell the story of professional and home life during this era. Its setting near downtown Circleville makes it easy to continue exploring local shops or enjoy a meal nearby.

Pickaway County Historical & Genealogical Library

162 West Union Street, Circleville, Ohio 43113

The Pickaway County Historical and Genealogical Library offers a quieter way to connect with the past. Resources include family histories, property and building records, photographs, maps, and cemetery information.

Many visitors find that research naturally pairs with a coffee break or a walk downtown, allowing time to reflect on discoveries and personal connections to the area’s history.

Ted Lewis Museum

133 West Main Street, Circleville, Ohio 43113

The Ted Lewis Museum celebrates the life and career of Theodore Leopold Friedman, better known as Ted Lewis. Raised in Circleville, Lewis became one of the most recognizable entertainers of the early jazz era, earning international fame for his music and stage presence.

Exhibits feature memorabilia, recordings, film appearances, and stories from his sixty five year career in show business. The museum sits along West Main Street and fits easily into a downtown visit that may also include shopping or dining. Because the museum operates seasonally with volunteer support, planning ahead is encouraged.

Turn History Into a Day Out

Museum visits in Pickaway County blend easily with the small pleasures that define the area. A walk through exhibits may lead to lunch downtown. An afternoon of research might end with coffee and conversation. Shopping local adds another layer of discovery to the experience.

Visitors are welcome to explore one museum or several over time, creating a flexible and personal way to connect with Pickaway County history.

Start Exploring

From museums and downtown shopping to coffee stops and seasonal events, Pickaway County invites you to explore in a way that fits your interests. Find more ideas, upcoming events, and travel inspiration through the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau.