Former Museum Building to Get New Life

The former home of the Vigo County Historical Society and Museum will continue to serve as a tourist destination. The Sage Mansion in Terre Haute, which housed the museum for more than 60 years, has new owners who are planning to redevelop the property into a bed and breakfast.

Jevy Lenderman, owner of Sage Mansion LLC, and her husband Ben have acquired the property. She says they plan to keep the integrity of the structure in place while making much-needed upgrades and repairs over the next year.

Construction on the building was completed in the 1860s, according to Indiana State University. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

"We are just so excited to restore this gorgeous place and allow people to come in and experience one of our cities first grand homes," Lenderman said in a news release. "We really want to showcase the beauty of this historic home while offering guests the comforts of a modern, boutique style inn."

The Lendermans plan to open the new B&B in the spring of 2020. The new owners did not state how much money is being invested in the project or if any new jobs will be created.

The Vigo County Historical Society and Museum is in the process of moving the Vigo County History Center to its new home in the former Ehrmann Manufacturing Co. building. The new facility is slated to open in June.

"The Historical Society has known about this plan for some time, and we are excited that we can finally share it," said Executive Director Marylee Hagan. "We know this will be a great addition to the neighborhood and the community. With all the times over the years that people have wondered aloud about staying overnight in the museum, this seems like the perfect opportunity for them to see what it’s like."