Arms Family Museum | Youngstown

Arms Family Museum is a historic house museum located at 648 Wick Avenue in Youngstown, Ohio. It is operated by the Mahoning Valley Historical Society and is housed in Greystone, an elegant Arts & Crafts-style mansion built in 1905. The museum preserves the legacy of the Arms family and showcases the architectural and cultural heritage of the Mahoning Valley region.

Historical Background

The mansion, known as Greystone, was built for Wilford and Olive F.A. Arms, prominent members of Youngstown society in the early 20th century. The home reflects the Arts & Crafts movement, emphasizing handcrafted design, natural materials, and harmonious integration with the environment.

The Arms family had deep ties to the Youngstown community and a keen appreciation for art, craftsmanship, and local history. Their home, now a museum, preserves original architectural details, furniture, and decorative arts that illustrate their lifestyle and cultural values.

Architecture and Design

The museum is a fine example of the Arts & Crafts architectural style, characterized by:

Use of natural materials such as stone and wood

Emphasis on craftsmanship and handwork

Balanced, asymmetrical floor plans

Features like built-in cabinetry, detailed woodwork, and leaded glass windows

Integration with surrounding gardens and landscape

Visitors can explore various rooms that have been restored to reflect the original design intent and aesthetic sensibility of the Arms family.

Exhibits and Collections

The Arms Family Museum offers several permanent and rotating exhibits focusing on local history, culture, and design:

Arts & Crafts Design at Greystone: Displays original sketches, photographs, and artifacts related to the home’s design and decoration. These materials highlight Olive Arms’ contributions and the overall Arts & Crafts philosophy behind the house.

Making an Impact: Highlighting Youngstown's African American Community: Located on the second floor, this exhibit tells the story of the African American population in Youngstown, documenting their struggles and achievements despite challenges like segregation and discrimination. It honors the individuals and groups who shaped the community’s history.

Tailor Made: Local Clothing & Accessories: This exhibit features clothing, textiles, and accessories from the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing the craftsmanship of local tailors and dressmakers.

Mid-Century Modern in the Mahoning Valley: Focuses on design trends and everyday objects from the 1940s to the 1960s, including iconic local items like the 1948 Youngstown Kitchens set and toys from regional manufacturers.

The Benjamin Franklin Wirt Collection: A collection of diverse artifacts amassed by local lawyer and state senator Benjamin Franklin Wirt, including historic documents, Native American artifacts, and textiles.

Servants of Wick Avenue: An exhibit that explores the lives and contributions of the domestic workers who served the families living on Wick Avenue, shedding light on their experiences and roles within the household.

Anne Kilcawley Christman Hands-On History Room: An interactive space for children and families, offering educational games, crafts, and activities that engage visitors with Mahoning Valley history in a fun and accessible way.

Visitor Information

Hours: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM and closed on Mondays and national holidays.

Admission:

Adults: $7

Seniors and College Students (with ID): $6

Children (ages 3–18): $5

Free admission for children under 3, active/retired military personnel, and members of the Mahoning Valley Historical Society.
Admission includes same-day access to other Mahoning Valley Historical Society sites.

Parking: Visitor parking is available adjacent to the museum.

Location and Directions

The Arms Family Museum is located on Wick Avenue in Youngstown’s historic district, near Youngstown State University. It is accessible via major highways, including I-80 and I-680, with clear signage guiding visitors to the site.

Significance

The Arms Family Museum is more than a historic house; it is a cultural center preserving the region’s architectural heritage, social history, and community stories. Through its exhibits and programs, the museum educates visitors about local craftsmanship, social dynamics, and historical events, enriching understanding of Youngstown’s diverse past.

This museum is a valuable resource for those interested in architecture, local history, and the social fabric of the Mahoning Valley region.