The core display of History House looks chronologically at the history of the region from the Indigenous community to the arrival of Europeans and subsequent establishment of a settlement in Portland Bay.

Other themed displays include the centenary celebrations of 1934, the various volunteer militia groups of the mid to late 19th century, and the public baths that once graced Portland’s foreshore.

Content in the display is drawn from Glenelg Shire Council’s Cultural Collection, and supplemented with significant objects and images on loan from the Portland Family History Group and Portland Historical Society.

Core displays in the museum are permanent, with other exhibits changing periodically.

History House is also home to the Portland Family History Group who is custodians of the most extensive collection of genealogical research material in the western region of Victoria.