Programs
We believe in the power of knowledge. To that extent, we offer a variety of educational programs about architecture, preservation, and the heritage of Allen County and northeast Indiana. We are glad to share our knowledge and passion for history with school children, civic groups, and history buffs on a very diverse spectrum of topics, such as:
Identifying architectural styles - Restoring homes and gardens
- Traveling the historic Lincoln Highway
- Recognizing local landmarks
- Discovering local Underground Railroad sites
Please consult our online Calendar for upcoming events!
Throughout the year, we present a multitude of lectures that feature local, regional and national experts. Every late winter into spring, our Fun and Free Lecture Series offers insights and ideas on many preservation issues inside and outside of historic structures to specific issues that property owners and communities face in preserving their historic treasures. Our lectures are held at the Auer Center in downtown Fort Wayne.
Our late spring Historic Home & Garden Tour frequently includes national authors and guest speakers who are interested in visiting our community and sharing their research and understanding architectural history, trends, movements, and design.
Most of our lectures are free and open to the public as part of our service to the greater community’s continuing education.
Let's Go Downtown! is a series of easy walking tours that ARCH offers to individuals and groups curious about Fort Wayne’s downtown architecture and history. Ideally, tours are given for groups of 10 or more and cost $5 per person. Tours last 90 minutes and travel approximately one mile, hitting some of Fort Wayne’s “must-see” architectural gems. We suggest calling ahead to let us know how many to expect so that we can arrange enough tour guides.
Heritage Trail — ARCH is the trustee of the Fort Wayne Heritage Trail, a series of four, self-guided downtown walking tours that feature community history and local landmarks. Free maps are available at ARCH, the History Center, and the Visitors’ Center.
Charter Bus Tours include one of ARCH’s step-on tour guides, who will serve as your group’s escort through local historic districts and liaison at a number of selected sites. The cost is $50/hour, per tour guide. Please contact our office a minimum of two weeks in advance so that we may secure enough tour guides and make necessary arrangements.
Classroom Studies & On-site Activities
As part of our commitment to community education, we offer a variety of programs, activities, and lectures for groups of all ages, from elementary age children to senior adults. Hands-on workshops and on-site activities focus on key elements of preservation by teaching valuable restoration and research skills and techniques. Some classes are designed to help homeowners reinvest in their homes or historic structures for the greatest benefit, while others offer a hands-on approach to learning and understanding how previous generations lived and worked.
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FUN FACT:Fort Wayne native Hugh McCulloch was US Secretary of the Treasury for three Presidents; Lincoln, Johnson and Chester Arthur.
