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Night at the Museum: If These Artifacts Could Talk

  • Marietta Castle Museum 418 4th Street Marietta, OH, 45750 United States (map)

Where History Speaks—Literally!

Step into The Castle after hours for a magical evening where the past comes alive in unexpected ways. This year’s Night at the Museum takes a new twist: instead of meeting historical figures, you’ll encounter the fascinating stories of extraordinary artifacts—told through their own eyes!

Engaging interpreters bring life to select pieces from The Castle’s collections, revealing what these objects witnessed, the people who used them, and how their lives intertwined with history. Spanning from the early 1800s through the early 1900s, each artifact has a voice and a tale worth hearing.

Meet the Artifacts

  • Civil War Field Desk – Once the command center for a Union officer, this desk shares the burdens and hopes carried through letters written on its surface.

  • Victorian Hand Fans Collection – Whispers of elegance and secret glances come alive as these fans recount the language of flirtation and fashion in high society.

  • “Crazy” Quilt – A patchwork of memory and artistry, this quilt reveals the hidden stories stitched into its vibrant, irregular patterns.

  • Crystal Chandelier – Hanging high above grand gatherings, this glittering witness recalls evenings filled with light, laughter, and change.

  • Nye Stove – From warmth to innovation, this sturdy stove shares how it helped turn raw ingredients into the comfort of home.

  • Clarke Pottery Collection – Crafted from Marietta clay, these vessels tell the story of local industry and the hands that shaped Ohio’s early trade.

Artifact Scavenger Hunt!

Make your visit even more interactive with our Artifact Scavenger Hunt! Designed for all ages, this fun challenge encourages visitors to explore carefully, observe details, and uncover hidden clues throughout the museum. Complete the hunt and take home a one-of-a-kind collectible sticker—a perfect memento of your night when the artifacts came to life.

Event Details

  • Tours: Begin every 15 minutes and last approximately 45 minutes.

  • General Admission (Ages 8+): $14.50

  • Castle Members: $12.50 (use code MEMBER at checkout) Members save $2 per ticket with promo code MEMBER.

Private Tours

Looking for a more exclusive experience? Book a private tour for groups of 12 or fewer at a discounted rate. Must be reserved at least 4 days in advance by calling (740) 373-4180.

Make Your Reservation

Important Information

  • Cancellations: Changes or cancellations must be made at least 48 hours prior to the event start time for a refund.

  • Parking: Available along Fourth Street.

  • Accessible Parking: Located off High School Lane between the house and garage (limited spaces).

  • Accessibility Note: This tour includes stairs between the first and second floors of The Castle. Guests with mobility concerns are encouraged to contact us in advance for additional accessibility information or assistance.

  • Check-In: Follow the brick sidewalk to the right of the house to reach the Carriage House. Please arrive 5–8 minutes prior to your tour time.

For questions, contact us at (740) 373-4180 or education@mariettacastle.org.

Support Our Mission

Your generous support allows The Castle to continue offering dynamic educational programs, preserving and sharing the property and its distinctive collections, and fostering community discussion about Marietta’s role in shaping our region, state, and nation.

Make an Online Donation
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November 2

Special Concert Recital: Echoes of War