Hamilton County Historical Society seeks new board members

The Board of Directors for the Hamilton County Historical Society is seeking volunteers for a Vice President and Treasurer.

The Historical Society, which is run by a 13-person board that includes a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and nine at-large members, manages the Historic Sheriff’s Residence and Jail Museum on the square in Noblesville, the Museum Director, and regular Society business that includes events, fundraising, and caring for a historic collection of artifacts related to Hamilton County history. It’s an exciting time to be involved as the society is establishing a strategic plan and also helps convene a county-wide history organization collaborative group.

Potential board members should meet the summarized criteria below, a full copy of which is available upon request. The board is especially seeking people with some nonprofit experience, either in grant applications, managing accounts, or other related tasks.

Diversity statement

The Hamilton County Historical Society seeks to represent all history of the county. This includes geographically (all nine townships) as well as demographically. As the society works to tell the story of Hamilton County, the board should reflect this diversity and diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

Length of term

At-large board member terms are for three years and officer terms are for two years. President and Vice-President are limited to three consecutive terms. (Note: the open seats include two officer terms – both of which are a single year, January to December 2025, then subject to re-election for a traditional two-year term.)

Time commitment

Must be able to attend a majority of board meetings, on the first Tuesday evening of most months, volunteer for at least one event held during each year, and assist the museum director for at least two shifts each year at the museum during regular open hours from noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Other requirements

Must live in Hamilton County or have significant business or personal interests in the area, and a knowledge of Hamilton County or Midwest history is a major bonus. Also must pass a provided background check to volunteer at events.

Expectations

In addition to bringing enthusiasm to the society and preparing for meetings in advance, board members should advocate for the museum and its strategic principles.

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A further description of the Vice President position is as follows:

The Vice President shall perform the duties of the President in the absence of the President and shall chair the Program Committee if the VP does not appoint a chair. Ideally, the Vice President would serve as a coordinator for grant applications.

A further description of the Treasurer position is as follows:

The Treasurer shall keep correct and complete records of accounts and shall present a financial report at all regularly scheduled Board meetings and at the annual meeting of the membership. The Treasurer shall make all financial books and records available for inspection at reasonable times to any member of the Board. The Treasurer shall prepare and file or have prepared and filed on behalf of the HCHS any reports that may be required to maintain the HCHS in good standing under the law. The Finance Committee may conduct an audit of the books internally or externally. (Details on the extent of financial holdings available upon request.)

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People interested in being nominated should contact President Jessica Layman at jessielearene@gmail.com or (317) 922-6120 before Nov. 21 in order to be considered in time for the election at the society’s Annual Meeting on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024.

Potential candidates should attend the annual meeting of the membership, details forthcoming, if at all possible.

About the Historical Society
The Hamilton County Historical Society, located on the southwest corner of the square in Noblesville, is located in the Old Sheriff’s Residence and Jail. The museum is open from noon to 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and is free (donations encouraged). In addition to exhibits on Hamilton County history, the museum includes rooms restored to the 19th century as well as three floors of jail cells. Follow along at Facebook.com/hamiltoncountyhistory and check out hamiltoncoinhs.com.