The annual Porter County Fair is the oldest and largest event we have here; it’s so familiar that it is sometimes taken for granted. Since the first fair in 1851, the institution has weathered its fair share of storms to cultivate an environment where families can come and grow together. Its long-standing traditions have been hard-won and dearly-held, carefully passed down from generation to generation.

This exhibit, Our Heart of Hearts: The Porter County Fair, reveals a remarkable story that spans 175 years. It is told largely through the snapshots and oral histories of some of the fair’s most dedicated caretakers.

Experience our exhibits in a personal way by taking a tour with Quinn. Quinn’s May tour is the very first to feature Our Heart of Hearts: The Porter County Fair and I won a blue ribbon at the county fair: 4-H Portraits by Aimee Tomasek.

This tour is free and open to the public. There is no RSVP required, although we ask that you arrive a few minutes before the start time as a courtesy to the other attendees.

Plan your Saturday visit between 10am-2pm to explore two historical structures - the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot. Learn more about the history of Hebron and south Porter County thanks to our partnership with Hebron Parks and Recreation.

Plan your Saturday visit between 10am-2pm to explore two historical structures - the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot. Learn more about the history of Hebron and south Porter County thanks to our partnership with Hebron Parks and Recreation.

Plan your Saturday visit between 10am-2pm to explore two historical structures - the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot. Learn more about the history of Hebron and south Porter County thanks to our partnership with Hebron Parks and Recreation.

Plan your Saturday visit between 10am-2pm to explore two historical structures - the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot. Learn more about the history of Hebron and south Porter County thanks to our partnership with Hebron Parks and Recreation.

The fur trade could be a rough-and tumble business. The disorderly nature of the enterprise is evident in the volume of Bailly’s account book held by the Porter County Museum, as well as in other volumes of Bailly’s records in the Indiana State Library. Valparaiso University Professor Randa Duvick will present the results of her study of Joseph Bailly’s existing business records dating from the turn of the nineteenth century.

Plan your Saturday visit between 10am-2pm to explore two historical structures - the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot. Learn more about the history of Hebron and south Porter County thanks to our partnership with Hebron Parks and Recreation.