Honorary Resident
Registration & History

A great tradition of honoring residents each year!

      Old Settlers Day has been a Whitley County tradition since 1904 when the first organized reunion of the pioneers was held at Loon Lake. Part of that tradition was the registration of residents as a permanent record of all those attending the celebration. This registration of residents is still honored and continues yet today. Residents and visitors are encouraged to come by the Whitley County Historical Society Annex (108 W Jefferson St) on Thursday, June 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to be added to the registry.
     Annually recognition has been given to the oldest registered resident and the longest continuous resident. This year for the first time we are adding the youngest resident.  The youngest resident must be able to print or sign their name and must be younger than 18 years of age.
     Those who will be recognized as the oldest resident, the longest continuous resident and the youngest resident will be announced Thursday evening at 7:30 at the stage before the entertainment begins. Their names will also be added to a continuous plaque that will be on display at the Museum.
     We encourage you to stop by our beautiful Museum to participate in registration. You may meet up with old friends and reminisce about past Old Settlers Days celebrations. We hope you take advantage of this time honored event that has been enjoyed by many through the years.

To Read different historical accounts of Old Settlers’ Day Click the titles below!

Flu Pandemic of 1918

Historical Reading about 1906 OSD Celebration

Post and Mail Reading about 1906 OSD Celebration

Historical Reading about 1910 OSD Celebration

Post and Mail Reading in 1963 about the History of OSD Celebration

OSD Celebration 1925

Pictured is Mr. Henney receiving congratulations from Old Settlers Days President, Chad Whetstone, on Thursday night during the festival. Mr Henney is the recipient of both the oldest registered resident and the longest continuous resident. He received a certificate and his name was added to both plaques that are on display at the Whitley County Museum.  Congratulations Mr. Henney.