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Our Heart of Hearts: The Porter County Fair

Opens May 16, 2026, inside the Eunice Slagle & Montague/Urschel Galleries

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.

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Events
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
Apr 30
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
May 1
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
Saturday Hours at Hebron’s Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot
May 2
Saturday Hours at Hebron’s Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
May 2
Closed for Exhibit Changeover
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Founded in 1916 by the Porter County Historical Society, the PoCo Muse is the oldest institution devoted to the history and culture of Porter County.

Artifacts were displayed in the lower level of the Valparaiso Public Library from 1916 until 1937, on the top floor of the Porter County Courthouse from 1938 until 1973, and inside the 1871 Porter County Jail from 1975 until 2020. The PoCo Muse opened its doors at 20 Indiana Avenue in downtown Valparaiso on May 19, 2022.

Our exhibits and programs highlight Porter County’s rich history, and have much to tell visitors about our county’s past, present, and future. We hope that when you visit, you leave with a better understanding of the unique character of Porter County, along with its diversity, vibrancy, and beauty.

“This may be the best small museum in the USA.”

— Natalie Z. | Yelp review

“Truly a gem in our community […] we are very fortunate to have such an amazing local cultural resource!”

— Ben | Facebook review

I brought my daughter who thought it'd be totally lame […] so we made a bet. If it was, I would have to get her a cupcake from the local bakery. I did not have to buy the cupcake. 

—Wende B. | Facebook review

“The public programming they provide is informative, reflective and fun. The exhibits challenge visitors to think of history in the context of their own lives. Museum-goers discover their shared history, and we are a stronger community as a result of these discoveries.”

— Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas

"The institution has tackled difficult subjects like civil rights and homelessness but has managed to stimulate engagement and conversation. More importantly, the Porter County Museum has demonstrated the true diversity that exists within our borders."

— Former Chesterton Town Manager C. Bernard Doyle

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