Niles History Center

06/10/2026

We are excited that "Images of America: Niles" is now available for purchase!

The book features over 200 photos pertaining to the history of Niles. The Niles History Center has curated images from its photograph collections to showcase the area’s rich heritage, spanning from Fort St. Joseph to the mid-20th century.

The book can be purchased at the Fort St. Joseph Museum or online through various retailers.

Thanks to the Niles Star for the article highlighting the book!

NILES — A new book gives readers a look into the City of Four Flags’ rich past.

06/02/2026

The Niles History Center is excited to offer another series of walking tours this summer!

All tours meet at the Riverfront Park Amphitheater and begin at 10am.

2026 Schedule:

Saturday, June 20 - The Chapin Family in Downtown Niles : Take a stroll down Main Street to learn about the Chapin family and their lives in Niles during the second part of the 19th century. Tour includes a peek inside the historic Chapin Mansion.

Saturday, July 11 - Rails to Trails: Walk along the St. Joseph River and learn about the important role both this waterway and railways played in the development of the community.

Friday, September 4 - Downtown Niles: Discover the history of Niles’ downtown. Highlights include the Four Flags Hotel, Carnegie Library, and Paris Soda Shop.

Tours are free but donations are gratefully accepted to help fund this program.

All tours are weather permitting. Please email [email protected] for more information.

05/30/2026

The Chapin Mansion Open House is going on until 2pm!

Stop by to see the Mansion. Christina and Mollie also have copies of the new book, "Images of America: Niles" available for purchase!

The authors will also sign the book!

05/29/2026

The first guided tour of the Chapin Mansion is TODAY Friday, May 29 at 1:00pm!

Admission: $5 for adults. Ages 18 and under are free

Tours begin at the Fort St. Joseph Museum and are led by trained docents who offer a look inside this beloved Niles landmark.

In addition, celebrate the opening of the 2026 season on Saturday, May 30 at the Chapin Mansion Open House from 12-2pm. Check out the event for more information!

05/22/2026

From the collection - This photo shows a Decoration Day parade on Main Street in 1914.

George Corell, a veteran of the Spanish American War, is on horseback.

Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day, a day to honor soldiers who died in the Civil War. The tradition was later expanded to include fallen service members from all wars.

05/13/2026

05/12/2026

The Niles History Museum is featured in the Michigan Museums Association Experiences Auction! Check out this amazing auction which feautres unique experiences at museums across Michigan!