Boone County History & Culture Center

At the Boone County History & Culture Center, there is always something happening.

Since our founding in 1924, we have been preserving Boone County’s history for future generations. We collect, preserve, and exhibit historic artifacts, records, and artwork that tell the story of the people who call this place home.

The Boone County Historical Society is a nonprofit organization that owns and operates the Boone County History & Culture Center. Our campus includes the Walters History Galleries, the Montminy Art Gallery, the Village at Boone Junction, the River-Horse Pavilion, and the historic Maplewood House, Columbia’s most beloved 19th-century home. Together, these spaces form a living hub where history, art, and culture bring people together through engaging experiences for all ages.

Whether you are visiting for an afternoon or looking for your next favorite local event, you will find something to explore.

Free Family Fun with Boone Youth Explorers
Each month, families are invited to join us for Boone Youth Explorers, our free, hands-on event designed for kids and their grown-ups. Every program features interactive activities, crafts, and games that bring Boone County’s history to life. From building and creating to exploring stories from our past, young visitors connect with local history in ways that spark curiosity, creativity, and pride in where they live.

Rotating Exhibits and Gallery Shows
From the Walters History Galleries to the Montminy Art Gallery, our exhibits highlight the stories, people, and artistry that make Boone County unique.

Lectures, Talks, and Conversations
Our “Things That Matter” Speaker Series brings thought leaders, historians, and community voices together to explore ideas that shape our past and future.

Concerts and Live Performances
Experience music in a historic setting, including concerts on the Blind Boone piano that create unforgettable moments of connection.

Historic Sites and Seasonal Events
Maplewood House, Historic Boone Village, and the River-Horse Pavilion are open for tours by appointment only, April through October each year. We also host festivals and special programs throughout the year, offering meaningful ways to gather, learn, and celebrate.

From exhibits and concerts to talks, tours, and family programs, the Boone County History & Culture Center is a place to discover, connect, and be inspired. It is history in motion, and you are invited to be part of it.

🔍 Be sure to check out our website for upcoming events, exhibits and things to do in Columbia, Missouri!