In 2007, during the French Lick Sesquicentennial celebration a temporary museum was opened for a week to feature the town's unique history.

 

Due to its overwhelming popularity, a group began discussions of the possibility of a permanent museum.

 

In 2008, a board of directors was formed and ideas were developed regarding what was wanted and needed in the community.

 

The board began the formation of a business plan in 2009 with the guidance of Don Anderson, professor of marketing and tourism at Purdue University. Several buildings were considered as a location for a museum.

 

After presenting the plan to the Orange County Development Commission in 2010, a grant of $50,000 a year for four years was awarded.  A 501 c (3) non-profit organization status was obtained.

 

The French Lick Redevelopment Commission gave $30,000 for a build-out of a downtown building in French Lick and in June of 2011, the French Lick West Baden Museum opened.

 

The historic Dickason building now housing the museum underwent a major renovation in 2012 and the museum moved to its current larger space on the other side of the building.

 

The formerly empty second floor was converted to six modern apartments and the ground level can house three businesses, a restaurant, and the museum.  A patio section was added, providing opportunities for outdoor dining and events.

 

In June 2013, the Museum had its grand re-opening and for the first time unveiled the entire circus diorama.