May 16, 2026, was International Museum Day and the Kelleys Island Historical Association Museum Campus held its soft opening of the season. The day began with a Welcome Back Brunch for the KIHA volunteers, employees and board members. Breakfast bread and vegetables with dip, along with mimosas and coffee were served while volunteers signed up for their shifts and welcome back greetings exchanged. The guests took self-guided tours of the museum and the newly re-organized Resale shop. Introductions of newer board members and of our new Resale Shop Manager, Sherry Eddy, were made. Excitement and anticipation were in the air for the official opening on Thursday May 28, 2026. The hours of the Museum Campus will be Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 12-4pm. The Campus will be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. More volunteers are always welcome! Contact Justiina Loveless at 330-205-2285 or Sherry Eddy at 740- 680-7200 to learn about volunteer opportunities at The KIHA Museum Campus.
The International Museum Day is coordinated by the International Council of Museums. This year’s theme was “Museums Uniting a Divided World.” This theme highlights the power of cultural spaces to foster dialogue and peace across geopolitical and social boundaries. Museum Day at the KIHA Museum was FREE. The parking lot quickly filled with visitors taking advantage of the FREE admission and the privilege to get the first look at new exhibits. Visitors were treated to the newly re-organized Parsonage House and Sis’s Cottage Resale Shops. A special treat in the Museum Gift Shop was the presence of Island author Bob Adamov! He greeted visitors and offered to sign his newly released book, “Island Shadows.” With over 20 books published, Bob’s latest book features some colorful characters and landmarks of Kelleys Island and Put In Bay. The book will be available in the museum gift shop all season!
The Museum Campus buzzed with activity up until closing time. Visitors found treasures at the Resale Shops, and donations of more treasures were accepted and organized. If you have donations to make to the Resale shops, please contact Sherry Eddy, 740-680-7200, or Jodie Smith at 419-350-1082.
The KIHA is a non-profit organization that depends on volunteers and donations to fund its work. The KIHA thrives to be a community supporter through its work in preserving the history of the Islands families that founded, and built, and continue to contribute to the thriving island community.
