The Genealogical Library of the Stevens Memorial Museum contains an extensive collection of documents and materials regarded by many as one of the Midwest’s finest collections dating back to the 19th century, records include birth, death, marriage, divorce, newspapers and more. The genealogy library is free for members of the Washington County Historical Society. Research options include onsite research in the Genealogy Library, onsite research at the Washington County courthouse, and remote research via email. Fees applicable.

A contributing object for the Salem Square historic district includes a stone lion on the northeast side of the square. It was carved in 1884 to stand sentinel in front of the State Bank of Salem. The lion stood sentinel before a group of buildings developed by Lee W. Sinclair. The buildings have been demolished, but the lion remains a town landmark. The lion was carved from a single block of limestone by Collins James Morgan, who also worked on the construction of the Courthouse.