Passport to the Past

Mar. 4 2026

Clermont County celebrates the nation’s 250th birthday with a new history program.

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and Clermont County joins the nationwide America 250 celebration in a big way with the Clermont County History & Museum Passport. For the first time, 13 of the county’s museums and historical sites unite to encourage curiosity and exploration. See how our past informs our present at the county’s museums, historic sites, and points of interest, where you’ll discover early settlements, local history, agriculture, and the legacy of President Ulysses S. Grant. Pick up a passport at any of the 13 participating locations—many of which are also part of the Land of Grant Trail—and the Clermont County Freedom Trail. Learn more about those trails and explore our own unique heritage by just showing up. Volunteers, small staff, and the many volunteers reflect on our country’s past while looking toward the future.

An American Moment

History buffs should book a March–American Moment: America 250 Clermont County project. Acclaimed local author and historian Randy McNutt will share stories of Clermont County’s role in early exploration subjects both local suffragette Elizabeth Archard Conner and national figures like Thomas Paine’s Common Sense.

Land of Grant Trail

Another great way to experience history is this trail, which celebrates the legacy of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States, whose roots began here in Clermont County. The Clermont County Historical Society and the Clermont County History & Museum Passport bring history to life. Scan the QR code to learn more.

Clermont County Freedom Trail

Explore 42 noteworthy historical sites that played a key role in the fight for abolition in Clermont County, including Cincinnati’s National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and John Rankin House, one of the most active and best-documented stations on the Underground Railroad, which inspired Eliza’s story in Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Scan the QR code to explore.

Clermont County Museum Days

All participating sites on the History & Museum Passport will be open on Museum Days from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, making it easy to explore multiple locations in one day.

Mark your calendars for Museum Days on March 28, July 11, and September 19!

From river towns and historic homes to museums filled with stories waiting to be told, Clermont County’s past is closer than you think. Pick up your History & Museum Passport, plan your stops, and set out to explore it all for yourself. Your next adventure starts here.