The museum is operated by Historic Harmony, Inc., which was established in 1943.
Butler
From historical societies to museums, a plantation, and more, history is undoubtedly crucial to Butler County residents, and they'd love to share it with you!
You can discover Asian Art, learn about the beginnings of the French and Indian War, and see the first home of a celibate German communal society. Adults can even dive into the past by taking a week-long class!
Located in the rolling hills of western Pennsylvania, Butler County is filled with thriving businesses, gorgeous scenery, plentiful recreational activities, and more than 200 years of history. Boating, bicycling, hiking, golfing, antique shopping, museums, and county fairs are all available there.
From the traditional mall setting to our specialty shops offering gift items, clothing, toys, and even alpaca products, you will find something to suit your needs and your thirst for adventure.
Experience the rich history of Butler County. You may know about some of its most popular historic sites, such as the Harmony area and George Washington's 1753 Trail. Still, you probably didn't know there are over 250 years of significant historical events.
Everyone knows about the vast Events in July, like the Big Butler Fair and Horse Trading Days in Zelienople, but Butler County offers events all year round!
Museums
Zelienople Historical Society acquired the Passavant house in 1975, and today this historic building serves as a museum, the Lester Mohr Library, and the headquarters office for the society.
The Buhl House is the second historical house museum of the Zelienople Historical Society, located on South Main Street near Passavant House. Built in 1805, it is the oldest building in Zelienople, where Christian Buhl and his wife raised their eleven children.
Built in 1828 as a summer residence for Butler's only U.S. Senator, Walter Lowrie, this is the last remaining house of its type in the Butler area. A listing on the National Register of Historic Places honored its historical and architectural significance.
Red School House is the first public school in Butler, built in 1838 due to the Public School Act of 1836. It was used as a classroom until 1874, when a larger facility was built.
The original cabin, built by the Cooper family in 1810, was used as a county homestead. It was enlarged after the Civil War, and family descendants remained in it until 1963. In 1976, Cooper Cabin was deeded to the Butler County Historical Society.
Organizations
The Zelienople Historical Society maintains a museum in Passavant House with many of the original articles brought by Zelie.
Established in 1927, Butler County Historical Society's main goal was to preserve the history and culture of the county. Back in 1927 a group of locals of the county met to discuss what contiburtion they could make to portray the history of their society.