Indiana Humanities

Were you able to catch the Broadway musical, "SUFFS," that broadcasted live on PBS earlier this month?

Inspired by the show, the The Indianapolis Propylaeum will host a community-centered experience on June 9 that invites attendees to share their perspective, listen to others, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the history of women’s suffrage and the ongoing importance of using your voice today.

Roundtable discussion topics include:
- The Past That Built the Path: Historical Context on Suffrage
- How Change Actually Happens: Activism & Strategy
- From Stage to Reality: Reflecting on SUFFS the Musical
- Who Holds the Power?: Influence, Voice & Representation
- Progress, Pushback & What’s Next: Barriers & Backlash

This all-ages event is held in partnership with WFYI and Indiana Humanities, and is free and open to the public. Register today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/propylaeumhistoricfoundation/event/propupyourvoice/

"Take your time. It's been 250 years."

That's what it says on the sign outside of Timeless French Lick's historic visitor center, where the Voices and Votes exhibit will be stationed until June 28.

As a reminder, Voices and Votes is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils nationwide that works with rural communities to design and host high-quality exhibits and create dynamic public programs across the U.S.

You can learn more about Voices and Votes and the other tour stops here: https://indianahumanities.org/program/voicesandvotes/

In honor of Memorial Day, we thought we'd share some more information about the Indiana War Memorials, several of which are open for visitors today.

According to the State of Indiana's website, "the Indiana War Memorial Plaza Historic District includes the 30,000 square foot IWM Museum complete with military equipment and artifacts, three parks, four fountains, and 25 acres of monuments, statues, and sculptures in the heart of downtown Indianapolis."

We invite you to take some time today to reflect on Indiana's military history and those who died serving.

Learn more: https://www.indianawarmemorials.org

Did you know that time travel is just a quick drive away?

The Newburgh Museum in southern Indiana has unveiled its Time Travel Walking Tour, a new program that allows participants to find signs throughout downtown and use mobile phones to view historic photos from the museum’s collection taken from the same vantage points. It's a great way to explore a new city and learn about history simultaneously.

This program received support from a Historic Preservation Education Grant awarded by Indiana Humanities and Indiana Landmarks.

Learn more and plan your visit: https://www.newburghmuseum.com

📸: Newburgh Museum

On May 23, join PBS Fort Wayne and the Allen County America250 Committee at the Allen County Public Library for a free all-day screening of “The American Revolution” to celebrate America's 250th birthday!

The screenings will begin at 10am in Meeting Rooms ABC and you will have the opportunity to connect with local organizations, museums, and others to see how local history fits into America’s story.

Learn more: https://acpl.libnet.info/event/16396455

Discover the historic town of Pierceton this Tuesday, May 19 at “Picturing Pierceton: Then & Now,” a slide presentation that shares rare historical photographs alongside recent views of the town. Pierceton native and historian, Joan Hostetler, is hosting the event.

Guests will learn about topics ranging from the 19th century Italianate-style structures, the great fire of 1895 that destroyed the west side of First Street, architect Frank Logan’s work in his hometown and beyond, and how Pierceton’s historic ties to the antiques trade put the town on the map.

The event is free to attend and will take place at 6:45 p.m. at the Pierceton Community Building, 105 W. Walnut St.

This event received support from an Indiana Humanities and Indiana Landmarks Historic Preservation Education Grant.

📸: Pierceton Public Library’s Beebe Collection
📸: Town of Pierceton

There are new faces around Indiana Humanities! Our 2026 summer interns have officially started, and they’ve already made our time in the office brighter.

Blake Chapman is a graduate student at Ball State University studying creative writing with a background in journalism and emerging media.

Bethany Lee is a student at Purdue University pursuing bachelor's degrees in English literature, professional writing, and creative writing. She's excited to be a part of our work this summer.

Welcome to the team!

What are we reading lately, you ask?

Our programs and special projects manager Bronwen has been revisiting "Fables" by Arnold Lobel (of "Frog and Toad" fame).

"Filled with charming morals like 'All’s well that ends with a good meal' and 'Without a doubt, there is such a thing as too much order,' 'Fables' pairs each page-long parable with a lovely illustration, featuring a cast of well-dressed animals. The fables grapple with the characters’ anxieties and shortcomings, desires and delights, and regularly evoke the spirit of Lobel’s more familiar amphibian tales.

Taken in small bits or in its entirety, 'Fables' is sure to captivate readers and listeners alike. Just ask my three-year-old, Clive!"

What are you reading lately?

On June 13, join the Crown Point Library and Lake County Parks as they celebrate America’s 250 years with music, food, hands-on fun, and reenactments.

History Speaks is an annual outdoor celebration that engages curious kids, lifelong learners, and anyone who loves a great tale. This year’s program presents an opportunity to meet historical characters like Abraham Lincoln, Al Capone, Martin Luther King Jr., and more.

RSVP: https://engagedpatrons.org/EventsExtended.cfm?SiteID=3652&EventID=585331&PK=

📸: Crown Point Community Library

Celebrate Black Birders Week with a guided birding tour through the beautiful Crown Hill Arboretum.

On May 27, explore woodland trails and open habitats while spotting seasonal migrants and resident birds, with tips on identification and birding by ear along the way. A Crown Hill Foundation docent will also share a brief history of Crown Hill Cemetery and Arboretum, adding cultural and historical context to our walk.

This welcoming experience centers Black joy, community, and connection to nature for birders of all experience levels.

RSVP: https://event.ontaptickets.com/events/celebrating-black-birders-week-birding-tour-with-douglas-gray-5-27-2026