Diocesan Museum
FREE ADMISSION. FREE PARKING IN ANY CATHEDRAL LOT
Open Tuesday – Saturday
10 a.m.-2 p.m.
and by appointment
1103 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne.
Encounter Christ in our diocesan heritage
Diocesan Museum is a treasure trove of religious artifacts that bring to life the Catholic faith’s awe-inspiring history, especially that of northeast Indiana. Many items are significant in telling the story of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, while others reference the universal history of Christ and the Catholic Church. The displays are informative, sometimes thought-provoking, even amusing. Museum artifacts include a mid-13th century handwritten bible; relics of St. Mother Teresa and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton; a collection of nun dolls; an 85-year-old statue showing the graphic wounds of a scourged Jesus.
Museum History
Diocesan Museum started as a dream of Msgr. Thomas L. Durkin. When he passed away in 1977, newly-ordained Father Phillip Widmann began planning a museum in his memory. Over the next forty years, Father Widmann collected, rescued, and restored items abandoned when local churches closed. Other items were donated from people’s closets and basements. Until his death in 2021, Father Widmann oversaw the setting up of displays and wrote the information labels/notes that accompany them.
The Museum opened its doors in 1981. After several moves, it came to be housed in its current location in 2019. It has remained free and open to the public. All are welcome!
Contact Us
Kathy Imler, Director
[email protected]
Diocesan Museum
1103 S. Calhoun Street
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
Open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and by appointment
Call 260-424-1485 ext. 401