Welcome!
Greater Milford Area Historical Society
Photo by Mary Nyktas
About Us
GREATER MILFORD AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
What is the GMAHS?
The Greater Milford Area Historical Society (GMAHS), established in 1967, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of Milford and Miami Township, Ohio. Originating as Old Milford Incorporated, the society has grown from its initial small museum setting to occupying the historical Promont mansion, reflecting its commitment to safeguarding the area’s heritage. Through extensive restoration projects, educational initiatives, and community engagement, including a noteworthy partnership with local schools, GMAHS serves as a vital custodian of the region’s past, ensuring its stories and traditions are kept alive for future generations.
Promount Museum (click to expand)
Promont stands as a majestic Victorian mansion built in 1865, rich in history and architectural beauty. Once the residence of John M. Pattison, the 43rd Governor of Ohio, this remarkable home has witnessed over 150 years of the region’s history. Today, Promont serves as a museum under the stewardship of the Greater Milford Area Historical Society, showcasing an array of period furnishings and rotating exhibits that bring the past to life.
Events
How do I become a member?
Are you ready to become a part of the Greater Milford Area Historical Society? Join us today and unlock a world of history, culture, and community. As a member, you’ll have exclusive access to our events, exhibitions, and educational workshops. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories that shaped our past and create lasting memories with friends and family. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of history in the making. Sign up now and reserve your spot for the next event! For more see our membership page here
Upcoming Events:
Donations & Thanks
Our existence is made possible through the kind donations and the invaluable time volunteered by members of our community. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the individuals and organizations listed below for their exceptional contributions. Together, we all play a vital role in preserving our rich history. If you are inspired to contribute, please consider making a donation.
We would like to thank our 2024 sponsors:
Our 2024 Art Affaire Premier Sponsor
Click to learn more about Cullen Electric – a fantastic local business and community supporter!
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Click for more about Bagel Run Media!
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Click for more about our wonderful hometown!
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Click for more about our Art Champion!
Our Art Lovers & Event Boosters
(click logos for more info)
Row House Gallery
If you are an artist or entertainer and would like to volunteer please contact us at: artaffaire@milfordhistory.net
We would like to thank our 2024 sponsors:
(click logos for more info)
Our 2024 Art Affaire Premier Sponsor
Click to learn more about Premier Sponsor
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Our Art Hero Sponsor
Our Art Lovers & Event Boosters
Row House Gallery
Promont & GMAHS
Promont House Museum
Promont stands as a majestic Victorian mansion built in 1865, rich in history and architectural beauty. Once the residence of John M. Pattison, the 43rd Governor of Ohio, this remarkable home has witnessed over 150 years of the region’s history. Today, Promont serves as a museum under the stewardship of the Greater Milford Area Historical Society, showcasing an array of period furnishings and rotating exhibits that bring the past to life.
Remarkably, the structure of Promont remains unaltered from its original construction, offering visitors a genuine glimpse into the past. The mansion is renowned for its Italianate architectural style, characterized by a central hall flanked by two connecting rooms on each side, consistent across its four floors. The Italianate influence is further evidenced in its window designs, wide eaves, and decorative quoins that embellish the corners of the house. The mansion also features a recently renovated tower, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Promont’s grounds, originally spanning 56 acres and reaching the historic Five Points intersection, have been a witness to the changing times and various families that have resided within its walls. Beyond its historical and architectural significance, Promont also hosts a reference library and a gift shop, making it a vibrant center for historical exploration and learning in the Milford area.
TAKE A TOUR
Promont is more than a museum, it’s a journey into the past. We offer docent-led tours for a personal and immersive experience.
Public tours of the museum are on the first, third, and fifth Sundays of each month from 1 PM to 4 PM. Tours begin no later than 3 and the museum closes at 4:00.
Public Tour Costs:
· Our docent-led public tours are $8 per person
· Students 13+ $3 per person
· Children 12 and under – free with member or paying adult.
Private tours may be available throughout the week and can be scheduled by contacting us at (513) 248-0324, Monday to Thursday, between 9 AM and 3 PM.
Private Tour Costs:
• $10 per person for 8 or more
• $15 per person for 7 or less
• Children 12 and under – free with member or paying adult.
Tours must be set one week prior to the event.
Private event notice. Promont is often booked for private events and these engagements can overlap with regular open hours. Please check this website or the GMAHS Facebook page for closure notices. Or, call 513/248-0324 (Monday to Thursday, 9am to 3pm).
Teas:
We are postponing Teas until further notice due to circumstances beyond our control. Please feel free to leave your contact information if you like to have us contact you when the Teas resume.
EXPLORE OUR HISTORY
Originally known as Beechwood for the numerous beech trees adorning its grounds, this historic mansion was later renamed Promont. The name, derived from Latin, meaning “a prominent mass of land overlooking or projecting into a low land,” was chosen by William George Williams, a professor at Ohio Wesleyan University and the father-in-law of John Pattison.
Promont For Events
Nestled amongst the trees on top of a hill overlooking Milford, Promont is an ideal location for weddings, bridal showers, afternoon teas, corporate meetings, and more. Promont’s Italianate architecture acts as a beautiful backdrop, adding a touch of old-world elegance to any event.
Inside, the vaulted ceilings and intricate woodwork create an intimate ambiance for small gatherings. Out on the grounds, the elegant gazebo and wooded lot will easily accommodate larger events.
With advance notice, we can even provide you with docent-led tours of the museum during the event. Better yet, GMAHS members receive a discount on the house rental fee!
If you’re interested in holding your special event at Promont, contact Kim Phipps, our Event Coordinator, at (859) 409-3504 or promontevents@gmail.com. For more information, check our Facebook page:
Visitor Reviews
★★★★★
“Historic Gem. Interesting tour”
“We very much enjoyed our Sunday afternoon guided tour of Promont by a knowledgable Milford Historical Society volunteer. We have been to a number of U.S. homes restored to the Victorian era decor, and found this one to be exceptionally well done with details you don’t always see“
– read review on Trip Advisor
★★★★★
“I hosted a Tea Party Baby Shower here this last weekend and it was an absolute hit! I would recommend this venue a million times over.”
– Laura T. on Yelp
★★★★★
“What a fun experience with a group of friends! This was held at a beautiful historic home near downtown Milford. It was a “low tea” so two people each shared a tray with some savory and sweet treats. The tea was wonderful, especially the cinnamon tea.”
– Katie J. on Yelp March 2023
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