The Mayville Historical Society was founded in 1968, when a group of interested citizens met at the home of Ken Tighe. Formation of a society was discussed, and in August, incorporation papers were filed. The society began to collect artifacts, pictures, and manuscripts in order to preserve Mayville's rich history. Since the society had no building of its own, the collected material was stored at various sites around the city. In 1972, Ted and Grace Bachhuber purchased the building that had once housed John Hollenstein Wagon and Carriage Factory and its adjoining residence, and donated it to the society for use as a museum. The condition of the buildings had deteriorated and they faced condemnation, but with help from the City of Mayville and local businesses, the society was able to restore them and prepare a place to store and display its collection. The museum opened its doors to the public for the first time in September of 1973. In 1978 the Bnmke cigar factory and the church/firehouse were moved to the museum grounds.