FCHS was founded in 1963 with its first location at the old Rochester Depot. Incorporating in 1972 as non-profit, FCHS started its first festival, the Trail of Courage in 1976 which led to the current festivals and Rendezvous: Trail of Courage Living History Festival, Fulton County Historical Power Show and Redbud Trail Rendezvous. In 1985, FCHS purchased acreage along U.S. 31, which is its present location. Through the years, donations of a round barn, print shop, chicken house, 1832 Polke house/stagecoach inn, windmill, the relocation of the Rochester depot and log cabin, and building projects such as a foot bridge and blacksmith shop have formed the nucleus of a Living History Village called Loyal, Indiana, which portrays the period of 1900-1925. Additions to the village are planned in the future. Three branch groups meet several times a year; the Genealogy Section, the Indian Awareness Center, and Fulton County Historical Power Association. FCHS seeks to preserve history through publications, displays, special events, dramas, music and monthly meetings.

Membership Gifts

Fulton County Images - quality magazine focusing on Fulton County Life. Published biennially (every two years). FCHS Newsletter of FCHS activities. Published biannually (twice a year). These two publications with one membership. Click here for more details.

Potawatomi Trail of Death Association Newsletter - News of Woodland Indians in Indiana, Miami, and Potawatomi descendants of Trail of Death, and Trail of Death Regional Historic Trail. Published twice a year. Dues are $20 for individuals and $30 for organizations.

Fulton County Folk Finder - Published by the Genealogy Section of FCHS. Queries, family group sheets, research tips, workshop news, county records, Civil War records, etc. Published twice a year. $6 individuals. $8.50 family or organizations.

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