Welcome to the Butler County Historical Society and Museum
The Butler County Historical Society is a private non-profit organization that formed in 1934 to preserve and promote the history of Butler County, Ohio. The society, incorporated in 1948, owns and operates the Benninghofen House Museum, a high-Italian style home built in 1863 that is filled with the furnishings of a wealthy family during the Victorian era. It also manages the Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument on Front Street and the McCloskey Wonder Works.
What’s Happening at BCHS?
Upcoming events:
Now Open! Charting Change: History of Butler County Ohio Through Maps.
October Speakers Series “A Man Completely Devoid of Fear”-The Controversial Life of Local Lawman, John C. Elliott Thursday October 22, 2026 7:00pm.
Current Exhibit
“Charting Change: History of Butler County Ohio Through Maps”
“Charting Change: History of Butler County Ohio Through Maps”
Maps allow us to see how Butler County evolved, and how the people who lived here shaped the landscape. From the first surveys to today’s digital technology, Butler County’s maps tell a story of land, people, transportation, industry, communities, and change.
Every map has a story.
Every place has a history.
Look closely and discover Butler County.
Open now through the end of 2026.
Upcoming Event
“A Man Completely Devoid of Fear”- The Controversial Life of Local Lawman, John C. Elliott
Thursday October 22, 2026: 7:00pm
“A Man Completely Devoid of Fear”-The Controversial Life of Local Lawman, John C. Elliott
In an exploration of the life and times of one of Butler County’s most controversial lawmen, retired Miami University professor Bob Wicks investigates John C. Elliott’s complex personality and even more complex life. Part of the gunmen who assassinated Mormon prophet Joseph Smith, and later as a Hamilton lawman and eventual U.S. Marshal, Elliott ‘s career was intimately connected to the politics of his day. Wicks first became interested in Elliott while co-authoring his book, Junius and Joseph: Presidential Politics and the Assassination of the First Mormon Prophet.
Admission is free for BCHS members or $5.00 for non-members payable at the door. Reservations are required-and limited to 100-please use the link on the website to register. If you have any questions please call BCHS at 513-896-9930!
If the event is full and no longer taking reservations and you would like to be placed on a waiting list please send your name and number of reservations you would like to info@bchistoricalsociety.com. If we have cancellations and can accomodate you we will contact you.