Discover Mahoning Valley's Rich History

Join us as we delve into the captivating stories and events that have shaped our community. Explore our calendar to find upcoming events and activities that bring history to life.

Upcoming Events

Founders Day Dinner

Mahoning Valley Historical Society members are invited to gather at The Von Isley Estate, a 2026 Historic Preservation Award Recipient, for the 151st Founders Day themed-buffet supper. The evening will include self-guided tours of the mansion, themed-buffet supper, & a program about MVHS’s 151st year & The Von Isley Estate.

Reservations Required.  

Thursday, September 10, 2026

5:00-8:00 pm

The Von Isley Estate
547 South Main St.
Niles, OH 44446

“Cleveland BalloonFest ’86: It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time”

Vince Guerrieri, Author and Historian

In 1986, the city of Cleveland set out to break a world record with a massive balloon launch, and on September 27, 1986, that’s exactly what they did. But did it do more harm than good?

Thursday, September 17 2026

12:00 – 1:00 pm

Tyler History Center
325 West Federal Street
Youngstown, OH 44503

Oak Hill Cemetery Tour

This much-anticipated walking tour will explore the stories of the famous and not-so-famous Mahoning Valley residents interred there, as well as fascinating facts around the design, traditions, and history of cemeteries.

Each grouping will be limited to 20 participants. Each grouping should expect their tour to last 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Tours begin and finish at Oak Hill Cemetery Chapel (344 Oak Hill Ave.) Price is $10 per person.

*Registration & payment will ONLY be available online & opens October 11 – no tickets will be sold beforehand.

Saturday, October 24, 2026
11 am-2 pm

Tyler History Center
325 West Federal Street
Youngstown, OH 44503

Jewish Culture – Mahoning Valley Cultural Alliance Dinner

MVHS has joined with MVCA to celebrate the many different cultures that have migrated to the Mahoning Valley. These events feature a different culture each month, and include cultural cuisine, entertainment, and a speaker. The events are open to the public with a registration fee of $35 for MVHS members and $40 for non-members.

Monday, October 5, 2026
5:00 pm

Tyler History Center
325 West Federal Street
Youngstown, OH 44503

18th Annual Memories of Christmas Past

This year’s Memories of Christmas Past, which will feature “White Christmas: The Exhibition” will be one for the books. Visitors will be able to trace the history of Irving Berlin’s iconic song, “White Christmas” beginning with its conception in 1940 to its second film feature in 1954 with White Christmas. Some of the authentic pieces that will be on display include a costume worn by the legendary Fred Astaire in 1942’s Holiday Inn, a pair of dancer outfits from the “Mandy” number in White Christmas, yearbooks from Rosemary Clooney, and Bing Crosby’s dressing robe and golf hats.

Saturday Nov. 14, 2026 
thru December 31, 2026

Arms Family Museum
648 Wick Ave
Youngstown, OH 44502