Established 1931 and incorporated 1963, the Ottawa County Historical Society continues to fulfill its mission to discover, preserve and celebrate the fascinating history of the County by developing programs and activities reflecting the entire county. Projects over the years included relocating and restoring the Catawba Island Betsy Mo-John cabin. When most Native American people left Ottawa County in the early 1800s, Betsy’s father was the last chief of the Ottawa tribe on Catawba island. Another restoration project was Danbury Township’s Wolcott Keeper’s House, the private residence of the first three keepers of the Marblehead Lighthouse. The Society’s oral history project produced 10 volumes of compiled stories that have served as the basis for programs, lectures, re-enactments, and presentations, most notably the “History Speaks” events. We continue to sponsor historical markers of significance throughout the County, such as Allen Township Crane Creek cemetery to honor Native Americans, Portage Township East Harbor State Park highlighting the Lockwood Farm, Village of Marblehead Lighthouse detailing its keepers and Holy Assumption Orthodox Church to honor immigrants in developing the county. In 2026 a marker was dedicated at the County Fairgrounds in Oak Harbor highlighing the significance of agricultural to the county.