YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Mahoning Valley Historical Society purchased a building at 250 E. Federal St. in downtown Youngstown in 2024 that will allow it to store its entire collection under one roof.
The building will also become the site of a permanent exhibition of artifacts from the defunct Idora Park, according to Lindsay Samblanet, communications manager.
The private collection of Canfield residents Jim and Toni Amey was donated to the MVHS last year. It includes rides, booths and other artifacts from the amusement park that once stood on Youngstown’s south side.
This year, MVHS will launch a fundraising campaign to create the museum, and to make the building climate controlled to protect the collection. New branding is being worked on in conjunction with the project, Samblanet says.
Throughout the year, MVHS presents programs that help tell the Valley’s story. The monthly lunchtime lecture series, Bites and Bits of History, continues to draw large crowds for each speaker and topic.
Its two signature events, Cookie Table & Cocktails and the Memories of Christmas Past exhibition, set records for attendance and fundraising.
The Oak Hill Cemetery tour was once again sold out.
MVHS kicked off its 150th anniversary festivities in September. The celebration will continue throughout 2025 with events focused on the society’s history. It will culminate in a gala event for members.
The society operates the Arms Family Museum at 648 Wick Ave. and the Tyler History Center at 325 W. Federal St.