Travis Childs, The History Museum’s Archivist, is the St. Joseph County Historian, appointed by the Indiana Historical Society and the Indiana Historical Bureau. In this three-year voluntary role, Travis serves as a liaison between statewide agencies and local organizations, joining with dozens of men and women across the state also serving in the County Historian Program. Questions? Contact Travis at The History Museum (574-235-9664, ext. 6266) or
Our area’s part of the state prior to the arrival of the Europeans
Fur trappers and traders who settled in St. Joseph County
The mandatory removal of Native Americans from northern Indiana.
Early South Bend
The start of an industrial Midwestern city.
St. Joseph County Facts
Quick facts and figures about our county.
South Bend Firsts
Historic ‘firsts’ that occurred in our city.
South Bend City Directories
The old city directories tell the story of South Bend.
List of South Bend Mayors
A list of mayors since 1865
South Bend Fire Department History
A chronicle of our community’s brave fire department.
South Bend Police Department History
A chronicle of our community’s brave police department.
Local African American History
The history of African American settlement in our community.
History of Mishawaka
The founding and development of South Bend’s neighboring city.
History of Osceola, Indiana
The history of another community within the confines of St. Joseph County.
South Bend's Lost Landmarks
Historic buildings that use to stand in South Bend.
