Historical Vandalia Inc. (HVI) was started in 1969 for the purpose of purchasing the 1867 Presbyterian Church to open a museum that would highlight area history. This was accomplished in 1979 after years of restoration work.

The mission of HVI is to operate, maintain, and enhance the Fayette County Museum. Area residents have donated approximately 9,000 artifacts to share the history of our ancestors. In addition to the artifacts, the museum experience is further promoted with information about life in Vandalia from 1819 to 1839, when Vandalia was the state capital. Abraham Lincoln was in Vandalia during the 1830s as he started his political career, so there are a few stories of his experience while he was here.

HVI hopes to continue preserving history for the enjoyment of museum visitors for many years to come!