Heritage Village Museum

Historic Southwest Ohio (HSO) is a non-profit organization dedicated to preservation of 19th century life. HSO operates a Heritage Village Museum in Sharon Woods Park. The Village is a recreated 1800’s community featuring thirteen historic buildings that were saved from destruction and moved to their present location.

At Heritage Village, you will experience the rural simplicity of a small town life as it was during Ohio in the 1800’s.

The Heritage Village is open to the public year around. Volunteers provide guided tours, supervise gift and book shops, coordinate special events, demonstrate traditional crafts and cooking and present educational programs for over 19,000 guests each year.

Village Map

The twelve historic buildings at the Heritage Village Museum are used to show visitors what life was like in early Ohio and throughout the 19th century.

Heritage Village Museum is a living history museum depicting life in Southwestern Ohio throughout the 19th Century. Homes, out-buildings and equipment on the museum grounds were moved here from other locations in the region to be preserved and aid in telling the story of our recent past.  Interpreters at the museum provide the facts and stories that bring the Village to life with nostalgic glances of days gone by.

Village interpreters demonstrate many of the historic tasks and crafts of the 19th century such as spinning, weaving, candle-dipping, soap making, hearth cooking, carpentry work, herb lore, gardening, printing, trade and bartering, and communication.

Our Mission Statement:

-To promote discovery and appreciation of Southwest Ohio’s heritage, starting with 19th century life and emphasizing its impact on our culture.

-To use our historic buildings, collections, and settings to create experiences that engage, enrich, educate, and entertain people of all ages, interests, and backgrounds.