Boone County Historical Society

Since our founding in 1924, we’ve been preserving Boone County’s history for future generations. We collect, preserve, and exhibit historic artifacts, records, and artwork of the people of Boone County. We're celebrating our Centennial year of protecting, preserving, and showcasing our Boone County History with exciting and informative exhibits, events, and opportunities to experience local art, culture, and history.

The Boone County Historical Society is a non-profit organization that owns and operates its physical presence, the Boone County History & Culture Center.  The Center comprises the Walters History Galleries, the Montminy Art Gallery, the Village, the River-Horse Pavilion, and the historic Maplewood House, Columbia’s most beloved 19th-century home. Thank you for your support of our very important mission! Please follow us on social media @boonehistory to keep up with all things Boone County history!

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Honoring Our Past, Inspiring Our Future

Since 1924, the Boone County Historical Society has been preserving our community’s stories for future generations. For over a century we have collected, safeguarded, and shared the historic artifacts, records, and artwork that tell the story of Boone County and the people who call it home.

This past Centennial year was more than a milestone. It was a reminder of why history, culture, and art matter. They inspire curiosity, build connection, and give us a deeper understanding of who we are and where we are going.

At the Boone County History and Culture Center, your support brings this vision to life:

• Youth Programming: Every Columbia Public Schools 5th grader visits the Center to explore Boone County history. Our Boone Youth Explorers program encourages curiosity, hands-on learning, and intergenerational connections that make history relevant and inspiring.

• Exhibits and Galleries: The Walters History Galleries and Montminy Art Gallery showcase powerful stories and regional artistry that reflect our shared identity.

• Historic Spaces: From the beloved Maplewood House to The Village and River-Horse Pavilion, our campus preserves the past while serving as a gathering place for today’s community.

• Speaker and Concert Series: Our "Things That Matter" Speaker Series and concerts on the historic John W. “Blind” Boone piano spark dialogue, celebrate culture, and bring people together through the arts.

Why are we important? Because without places like the Boone County Historical Society, our stories risk being lost. We preserve and share history so future generations can learn from the past, celebrate our culture, and build a stronger community.

Your support ensures that history, culture, and art remain vibrant and accessible in Boone County for the next 100 years.

Follow us on social media @boonehistory to stay connected and join us in celebrating a century of curiosity, culture, and community.

Together, we keep Boone County’s story alive.