Our Events & Programs

April 26th & 27th, 2025

First held in April 1962 the Sassafras Tea Festival is our most popular event. The event takes place the 4th Saturday and Sunday of April. The Historical Society hosts the Civil War re-enactment on the JC Courthouse lawn, serves fresh Sassafras tea and hot meals, and sells more than 700 fresh-baked pies and other traditional foods from the mid-1800's. The Festival highlights the performing arts with traditional music, a Blue/Gray Ball is hosted at the Vernon Gym, tours of Underground Railroad sites, and a working Blacksmith Shop. Demonstrations of traditional arts, as well as speakers about the Vernon Grays, Morgan's Raid and other historic events, are given throughout the two day event. 

October 17th & 18th, 2025

 Always a popular event in the fall, the Ghost Walk partners with students from the Jennings County Schools and the Historical Society to present local folklore and mysterious happenings in the county. Additionally, we host a "Mystery Dinner" full of surprising dishes and treats. Call 812-346-8989 for specific information. 

December TBD, 2025

Imagine yourself a traveler on the stagecoach from Madison, staying at the North American House in the 1800's... The hosts have decorated the house with Christmas trees, lights, nativities, and of course Santas, Snowmen and Reindeer. Every year the Society offers some special hours before the holidays so you can come see the spirit of Christmas in this historic setting. We offer special handmade items in our gift shop along with our traditional books and cards. We'll even offer you a cup of hot cider or cocoa. 

June 20th & 21st, 2026

In even numbered years, the Jennings County Historical Society hosts a homes, gardens, and barns tour featuring some of the unique homes, gardens and barns in the county, many of which played a significant role in our history. For 2024 we are looking for volunteers and historic properties around the county. If you have a home, barn or garden you wish to include, let us know.