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. 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 Museum at Heritage Hall located in the 1935 City Hall building on High Street.
What’s Happening at BCHS?
Holiday Hours of Operation:
Current Exhibit
When The Storm Broke Upon Us: The Saga of the 35th Ohio Volunteer Infantry
BCHS is proud to present this exhibit honoring the 35th Ohio Volunteer Infantry mustered using Butler county’s own as the lion’s share of its fighting corps. The most important artifact we have representing Butler County’s contribution to the Civil War is on display in the BCHS lobby. Featured items are located throughout the first floor of the museum and in the Emma Ritchie auditorium.
Upcoming Event
December 2024 Events
Saturday, December 7th: 10:00am – 2:00pm
2nd Annual Used and Vintage Book Sale
100s of new and vintage titles. Local history, military history, regional and American history, nonfiction, multi-volume sets, literature, biographies, 1st editions, city directories, local high school yearbooks, atlases, sheet music, vintage local postcards and more! Holiday cards, ornaments and crafts! Sorry, no early entries and no pre-sales. All books are sold as-is with no refunds. Please inspect carefully! Some books are in near mint condition, some not so much. All are priced accordingly and priced to sell! Remember, BCHS members receive 10% off New Book purchases! 327 N. Second St. Hamilton, OH. On and off-street parking is available.
Sunday, December 8th: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
German Village Christmas in the Village
Join us Sunday December 8th during Christmas in the Village. The Butler County Historical Society Benninghofen Museum will be open from 1:00pm-4:00pm. The museum is decorated for Christmas thanks to the Butler County Master Gardeners. Our book sale will also be open in our auditorium, so stop in and find some unique gifts. And we will be serving hot chocolate while it lasts. We are located at 327 N. Second Street, the Emma Ritchie Auditorium and the first floor of the museum are wheelchair accessible. On and off-street parking is available.
Saturday, December 14th: 1:00 pm
History of the Millville Mill
Doug Fraits, BCHS board member and owner of the historical home that once was tied to the Millville mill, discusses the fascinating history and people tied to this once important business concern and community institution. Through his years of family research, review of historical data and love of local tales of the areas and the building itself; Fraits creates a fascinating look at days gone by and the economic and cultural importance of the local mill and its eventual demise. Reservations are required – please call BHCS at 513-896-9930 or email [email protected] to reserve your seats!