The Ella is for Everyone

The mission of the Ella Sharp Museum is to promote the understanding and appreciation of art and history through exceptional exhibitions, interpretation of historical buildings and engaging educational programs.

The Ella Sharp Museum opened on October 3, 1965. With our 50th anniversary approaching the museum is still meeting the challenge of bringing the visual arts and the area's history to visitors through exhibits, community festivals and outreach programs.  

The Ella creates opportunities for everyone to explore, engage in, and enjoy art and history.


What can I do at the Ella?

Walk through our six different art and history galleries featuring Jackson's history, fine arts, wildlife taxidermy and an assortment of historical clocks.  Three of our galleries are permanent: Andrews Gallery of Wildlife Art, Never Enough Time Clock Gallery, and the Jackson History Gallery.  Our Hurst, Emmet and Pyron galleries rotate throughout the year. 

Take a tour of Ella Sharp's 19th century Hillside Farmhouse left to the city of Jackson after Ella died in 1912. Tours at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.

View our other historic structures including the Dibble One-Room Schoolhouse, Eli Stilson Log Hours, and the Merriman-Sharp Tower Barn.  For tours of these facilities please schedule ahead of time.

Educational and Entertaining programming including: lectures, art classes and workshops, field-trips, group tours, gallery  and sculpture walks, free community events, and our annual Art, Beer & Wine Festival.

The Friends Gift Shop - an array of unique gifts, including works by many local artists.

A 3,000-square-foot Grand Community Room with adjacent patio and park view, catering kitchen, and stage to accommodate a variety of gatherings including: weddings, galas, reunions, luncheons, meetings and more.