PA Museums

Exploring the Columns Museum in Pike County

A collage of four photos taken at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. The top left photo shows the museum's exterior, a stately white building with large columns, and a sign indicating it is the home of the Pike County Historical Society and the Lincoln Flag. The top right photo features the display of the famous "bloody Lincoln flag," believed to have cushioned President Lincoln's head after he was shot. The bottom left photo shows a collection of military uniforms and artifacts, representing the contributions of local veterans. The bottom right photo displays a room filled with historical artifacts, including a cabinet with dishes, a grandfather clock, and a portrait of Charles Sanders Peirce along with his personal effects. This collage highlights the museum's diverse exhibits and rich historical collections.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Columns Museum in Pike County, you’re in the right place!

The interior of the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, features a warm and inviting lobby with wooden paneling and a chandelier. The room includes a reception desk with informational brochures and a colorful stained-glass lamp. A bookshelf displays various items for sale, including T-shirts and books. In the background, a banner above the entrance to another exhibit reads "The Lënapé - Original People: Reconciling the Past, Embracing the Future." This exhibit area contains additional displays and artifacts, continuing the museum's mission to showcase the rich history of the region, including the famous "bloody Lincoln flag" and other notable collections.

Housed in a stunning 1904 neo-classical mansion in Milford, the Columns Museum features two floors brimming with artifacts and memorabilia that chronicle the rich tapestry of Pike County’s past.

The Columns Museum, home of the Pike County Historical Society, is housed in a grand, white, two-story building with a classical architectural design. The front features large, imposing columns supporting an upper balcony, and a curved porch wraps around both sides of the entrance. The steps leading up to the front door are flanked by well-maintained shrubs and greenery. The building's historic charm is evident in its detailed trim and symmetrical design. A sign on the door indicates that the museum is open to visitors. The museum showcases various exhibits, including the "bloody Lincoln flag," personal effects of Charles Sanders Peirce, 19th-century clothing, and local memorabilia.

The museum also serves as the headquarters for the Pike County Historical Society.

A historical marker on the building of the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, indicates its significance as part of the Milford National Historic District. The plaque, placed by the Historic Preservation Trust of Pike County, states that the building was constructed in 1904 in the Neo Greek Revival style as a summer home for Dennis McLaughlin of Hoboken, NJ. It has been home to the Pike County Historical Society since 1983. The 24-room house was designed by Charles Fall of Jersey City, NJ, and the marker notes the building's registration in 2002 with the number 413.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The Columns Museum is located at 608 Broad Street, Milford, PA 18337.

The museum is open Wednesday & Saturday from 1pm – 4pm, and Sunday from 11am – 2pm.

A wooden sign at the entrance of the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, provides information about the museum. The sign reads "Pike County Historical Society, The Columns Museum, Home of the Lincoln Flag." Directions to the parking area and the museum's hours of operation are also listed: Wednesday and Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM. The sign is situated along a road with trees and blooming bushes in the background, indicating the museum's picturesque setting.

Admission fees as of 2024 are Adults: $5 | Students: $3.

A sign at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, displays admission prices and policies. The sign indicates that the admission fee is $5 for adults and $3 for students, with payments accepted in cash or check only. Next to the pricing information, another sign requests visitors to refrain from bringing food or drink into the museum. A colorful stained-glass lamp with floral designs is visible above the signs, and the museum's interior, featuring wood-paneled walls and historical decor, can be seen in the background.

What You’ll See at the Columns Museum

The museum’s most famous exhibit is the Lincoln Flag, a poignant artifact from one of the most tragic events in American history.

The "Lincoln Flag" exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, prominently displays the blood-stained American flag believed to have cushioned President Abraham Lincoln's head after his assassination. The flag is encased in a large glass frame against a red and blue backdrop, with quotes from historical figures such as Major Henry Rathbone and Dr. Charles Leale on the wall. An informational board titled "The Lincoln Flag" stands next to the display, providing historical context about the flag and its significance. Additional plaques and artifacts related to the flag's history are also part of the exhibit, which is set in a room with wood-paneled floors and historical decor.

This flag, originally bunting from President Lincoln’s box at Ford’s Theatre, was used to cushion his head after he was shot by John Wilkes Booth.

An informational board at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, titled "The Lincoln Flag," describes the history and significance of the flag. The board explains that the thirty-six-star American flag was used to cushion President Abraham Lincoln's head as he lay mortally wounded by an assassin's bullet on April 14, 1865. The blood-stained flag is a grim reminder of the Civil War and Lincoln's leadership. The flag descended through the Gourlay family, prominent actors who were performing in "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theatre on the night of Lincoln's assassination. The flag was donated to the Pike County Historical Society in 1954 by V. Paul Struthers, son of actress Jeannie Gourlay Struthers, and grandson of actor and stage manager, Thomas Gourlay. The board highlights that five members of the Gourlay family were eyewitnesses to the tragic event.

The visible dark stains on the fabric are said to be Lincoln’s blood, adding a somber note to this historical piece.

A close-up view of the famous "bloody Lincoln flag" displayed at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. The flag, encased in a protective frame, shows visible stains believed to be the blood of President Abraham Lincoln from the night of his assassination at Ford's Theatre. The exhibit is highlighted by a quote from Major Henry Rathbone, "Stop that man!", referring to John Wilkes Booth's escape after shooting Lincoln. The flag's fabric displays a pattern of stars and stripes, symbolizing its historical significance and the tragic event it witnessed.

The flag’s journey to Milford is equally fascinating, having been passed down through generations before finding a permanent home at The Columns Museum.

An informational display at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, explains the history of the "bloody Lincoln flag," believed to have been present at Ford's Theatre the night President Lincoln was assassinated. Scholars think Lincoln's blood is still on the flag. The display traces the flag's provenance, starting with Thomas Gourlay, a stage manager at Ford's Theatre and a cast member of "Our American Cousin," who obtained the flag on April 14, 1865. Jeannie Gourlay Struthers, also a cast member, inherited the flag from her father, Thomas Gourlay, in 1885 and moved to Milford, PA, in 1888. V. Paul Struthers later inherited the flag from his mother, Jeannie, and donated it to the Pike County Historical Society in 1954. The display includes a portrait of Abraham Lincoln and a map of the region.

In addition to the Lincoln Flag, the museum houses other Lincoln-related memorabilia, including a replica of the derringer used to assassinate him.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, features photographs of President Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln alongside a replica of the .44 caliber Derringer pistol used by John Wilkes Booth to assassinate President Lincoln. The photos of the Lincolns are displayed in simple frames with a label identifying them. The Derringer is presented with a description, noting its similarity to the actual weapon used in the assassination. This exhibit is part of the museum's collection, which includes the famous "bloody Lincoln flag" and other historical artifacts related to the assassination and Lincoln's legacy.

There’s also an exhibit dedicated to the countless books written about President Lincoln, showcasing the extensive literature inspired by his life.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, showcases a collection of books about President Abraham Lincoln, highlighting his extensive influence on American history. A white bust of Lincoln's face is prominently displayed on a bookshelf filled with various publications about his life and legacy. A sign next to the bust reads, "Thousands of Publications: The subject of over 16,000 books and pamphlets devoted to various aspects of his life, Abraham Lincoln has inspired more publications than any other figure in American history." The exhibit is part of the museum's broader collection, which includes the famous "bloody Lincoln flag" and other artifacts related to Lincoln and the Civil War era.

Beyond the Lincoln Flag, the museum boasts an extensive collection related to notable figures from Pike County.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, focuses on early tourism in Milford. The display includes a wooden "Milford Visitors" sign and historical artifacts in a glass cabinet, such as documents, a violin, a beehive, and household items. An antique wooden telephone is prominently placed atop the cabinet. The walls feature black-and-white photographs of Milford's past, including images of buildings, street scenes, and individuals in period attire. The exhibit provides insight into the town's history and the lifestyle of its early residents.

One such figure is Zane Grey, the renowned author of western novels.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, features a biography of Zane Grey, born Pearl Zane Gray on January 31, 1872, in Zanesville, Ohio. The biography is titled "Many Shades of Zane Grey" and includes a portrait of Grey. It details his early life, describing him as a scrappy, rebellious, and antisocial child. His father, Lewis Gray, a strict and abusive dentist, disapproved of Zane's passion for fishing and writing. The family relocated to Columbus, Ohio, after financial troubles, changing their last name from Gray to Grey.

The museum’s Zane Grey exhibit includes posters and memorabilia from film adaptations of his works, highlighting his impact on American culture.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, showcases colorful vintage movie posters for films based on Zane Grey's novels. The posters include "Robber's Roost," featuring George Montgomery, "Wanderer of the Wasteland," and "Buffalo Stampede," starring Randolph Scott. Each poster highlights thrilling Western themes and dramatic scenes, emphasizing the adventurous spirit of Grey's storytelling. This display is part of the museum's extensive collection, which also includes the famous "bloody Lincoln flag," artifacts of Charles Sanders Peirce, 19th-century clothing, and local memorabilia.

Philosopher Charles Sanders Peirce, another illustrious resident, is also well-represented.

An informational plaque at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, details the contributions of Charles Sanders Peirce to the philosophical movement known as Pragmatism. The plaque explains that Peirce first used the term in 1898, and it gained popularity in the early 1900s. Pragmatism, according to Peirce, is based on the idea that inquiry requires doubt to be fully understood. Peirce and his colleagues applied this concept to create rules of logic, particularly in the fields of mathematics and statistics. The plaque is part of the museum's exhibit dedicated to the life and work of Peirce.

Visitors can explore a room filled with Peirce’s personal effects, offering a glimpse into the life of this influential thinker.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, showcases a collection of personal effects and memorabilia related to Charles Sanders Peirce. The room features a white display cabinet filled with blue and white porcelain dishes, photographs, and other artifacts. Adjacent to it is a dark wooden bookcase containing books and a portrait of Peirce with a descriptive plaque. The room is furnished with an antique clock, an upholstered chair, a side table with a lamp, and a vintage sofa. Large windows with natural light and historical decor contribute to the museum's period-appropriate ambiance.

The museum also pays tribute to Native American history through exhibits on Chief Thundercloud, a celebrated figure who modeled for famous artists and played a significant role in local history.

A framed black-and-white portrait of Chief Thundercloud, also known as Dominique DePlante, displayed at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. Chief Thundercloud, a Canadian-born French Blackfoot Indian, is depicted with a stern expression, adorned with traditional braids and a single feather in his hair. The photograph highlights his prominent features and traditional attire. This portrait is part of an exhibit dedicated to his life and contributions, showcasing his role as a prominent model for artists and his connection to the local history of Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania.

It is Chief Thundercloud’s likeness that appears on the 1911 five dollar gold piece.

An informational plaque at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, provides a biography of Dominique DePlante, also known as Chief Thundercloud. Chief Thundercloud, a Canadian-born French Blackfoot Indian, enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1872 and left in 1876 to tour Europe with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. Celebrated for his classical "Red Man" features, he became a prominent Indian model, posing for artists like John Singer Sargent and Frederic Remington. His portrait appears on the five-dollar gold piece designed by Victor Brenner and minted in 1911. In the late 1890s, Thundercloud moved to Dingmans Ferry, Pennsylvania, where he met and married Henrietta Hashagen. The couple became permanent residents in 1909. Chief Thundercloud's remains are buried in the Delaware Cemetery in Dingmans Ferry. The exhibit includes photographs of Chief Thundercloud and his family, along with his hand-crafted artifacts.

Military history enthusiasts will appreciate the museum’s collection of uniforms and artifacts from local veterans.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, showcases military uniforms and memorabilia from local veterans. The display includes several mannequins dressed in different military uniforms from various eras, including World War I and World War II. A framed photograph and a trunk with military markings are placed in front of the uniforms. An American flag and a panoramic photograph of a military unit are displayed nearby. Additional military artifacts, such as helmets, gas masks, and personal items, are housed in a glass cabinet, providing a glimpse into the military history of Milford and its residents.

As you wander through the museum, you’ll encounter various other exhibits that paint a vivid picture of life in Pike County over the centuries.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, features a historic photograph of the Sawkill House, Milford's first hotel, built in 1823 by Lewis Cornelius. The black-and-white image shows the large, multi-story hotel with people gathered on the front porch and lawn. Two informative text panels accompany the photo. The first panel describes the hotel's history, noting it contained a public hall, sleeping quarters, and a dining room, and was used as the Masonic Lodge for many years. The second panel provides interesting facts about Lewis Cornelius, known as the "fattest man in Milford," and his colorful legacy. This exhibit is part of the museum's collection, which includes the "bloody Lincoln flag," artifacts of Charles Sanders Peirce, 19th-century clothing, and local memorabilia.

From 19th-century clothing to artifacts from the county’s early tourism industry, each display tells a unique story.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, features the guest registry from the Sawkill House, a historic hotel. The open pages of the registry show entries with names, residences, room numbers, and remarks written in elegant cursive handwriting. The registry lists guests from various locations, providing a glimpse into the travel and social history of the period. This artifact is part of the museum's broader collection, which includes the famous "bloody Lincoln flag," personal effects of Charles Sanders Peirce, 19th-century clothing, and memorabilia from other notable Pike County residents and destinations.

The museum also features an exhibit about the Lenape, who were native to the area before the first European settlers arrived, providing valuable insights into the region’s earliest inhabitants.

An informational display at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, titled "Lënapé: The Indigenous People of the Upper Delaware River Valley," provides details about the Lenape people. The display explains the preference for the terms "Lenape" or "Delaware Indians" over "Native American" or "Indian." It discusses the importance of tribal names and federal recognition of Indian Tribes as distinct Indigenous nations with self-determination and self-governance. The display includes historical artwork depicting the Lenape people and highlights the 1778 Treaty of Fort Pitt, which affirmed the mutual recognition of sovereignty between the Delaware tribal nation and the United States.

Final Thoughts

The Columns Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it’s a living history lesson.

A bust of Abraham Lincoln is prominently displayed on a pedestal inside the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. The plaque beneath the bust provides information about Lincoln's life (1809-1865) and his presidency as the 16th President of the United States. Created by Gaetano Cecere, N.A., the sculpture is located in Milford, Pennsylvania. In the background, there is a historic Ford's Theatre poster advertising a performance featuring Laura Keene, related to the night of Lincoln's assassination. The museum, home to various historical exhibits, offers a glimpse into the rich history of Pike County and its notable residents.

The building itself, with its grand columns and neo-classical architecture, adds to the sense of stepping back in time.

The front view of the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, showcases its grand Neo-Greek Revival architecture. The museum, home to the Pike County Historical Society, is known for housing the famous "bloody Lincoln flag." A large, white, two-story building with prominent columns and a wraparound porch stands in the background. In the foreground, a sign reads "The Columns, Home of the Lincoln Flag, Pike County Historical Society Museum." Below the main sign, a smaller sign indicates the museum's hours: Wednesday and Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 2 PM. The scene is set against a backdrop of leafless trees, suggesting early spring or late autumn.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a fascinating day out, the museum offers something for everyone.

An exhibit at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, displays Lenape pottery, including a large pot and a smaller round-bottom vessel. An informational sign explains that Lenape women made these cooking, storage, and water receptacles from clean, tacky clay found in lake beds and riverbanks. The vessels were shaped, dried, and fired in an open fire, with decorative shapes and lines created using wooden paddles, cords, flint flakes, and sharp bones. The pottery pieces were found at the Zimmermann site, now part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and pieced together in the 1960s by William DeGraw, Fred Asmus, and William Leiser. The exhibit honors the memory of William DeGraw.

From the poignant history of the Lincoln Flag to the literary legacy of Zane Grey, there’s no shortage of fascinating tales to uncover.

A close-up view of the "bloody Lincoln flag" at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA, shows visible bloodstains on the red and white stripes of the flag. These stains are believed to be from President Abraham Lincoln after his assassination at Ford's Theatre. The flag's fabric is worn but preserved, highlighting its historical significance. This exhibit is part of the museum's broader collection, which includes artifacts related to Lincoln, the Civil War, and local history, providing visitors with a poignant connection to this critical moment in American history.

So, if you find yourself in Milford, be sure to visit this beautiful museum and immerse yourself in Pike County’s colorful past.

An American flag from the Centennial International Exhibition of 1876 is displayed in a frame on a red wall at the Columns Museum in Pike County, PA. The flag features the years "1776" and "1876" stitched in white stars on a blue field, representing the centennial celebration of American independence. To the right of the flag is a small placard with historical information about the exhibition and the flag itself. A vintage wall sconce with a lit bulb adds to the historical ambiance of the display. The reflection in the glass showcases the museum's interior, highlighting its historical and educational environment.

For a closer look at more lavish homes built by Pennsylvania’s industrial pioneers, check out 18 Pennsylvania Mansions That Host Public Tours.

A collage of four stunning historic mansions in Pennsylvania, each open for public tours. The top-left image showcases a brick castle-like mansion with arched windows and a turret. The top-right image features a grand stone estate with intricate architectural details and multiple levels. The bottom-left image highlights a Victorian-style mansion with ornate gables and a wraparound porch. The bottom-right image presents a stately stone mansion with a steep red roof and symmetrical design.

Nearby Attractions

12 Must-See Attractions in Pike County showcases more remarkable sights and experiences near the Columns Museum.

A collage of 4 images highlighting some of the best things to see and do in Pike County PA.

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