Our Mission
The collection, preservation, exhibition, and interpretation of Boone County’s History & Culture.
Our Vision
To be respected and recognized as the foremost organization for the preservation and promotion of the history and culture of Boone County.
Our Values
Honesty and integrity in all of the Society’s affairs. Diligence in the stewardship of the Society’s assets. Appreciation and respect for the work of volunteers and the support of members, donors, sponsors, and friends.
Who We Are
Founded in 1924, the Boone County Historical Society has spent more than a century preserving and sharing the stories of Boone County for future generations. Through the Boone County History & Culture Center, we collect, care for, and interpret historic artifacts, records, photographs, textiles, and works of art that reflect the people, places, and creativity of our community.
The Boone County History & Culture Center is owned and operated by the Boone County Historical Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making local history and culture accessible to all. Since 1990, the Center has been located on three acres of the City of Columbia’s Nifong Park, where history, art, and community life come together in one shared space.
Today, the Center 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 offer opportunities to explore Boone County’s past, experience its living culture, and connect with the stories being created today.
How We Share Boone County’s Story
We Collect
We actively collect artifacts, artwork, photographs, textiles, and records that reflect the everyday lives, creativity, and experiences of the people of Boone County. Our collections grow through community partnership and stewardship.
Interested in donating an item? Contact us at NancyThomas@BooneHistory.org to start the conversation.
We Preserve
Preservation is at the heart of our work. We care for our collections using professional archival practices to ensure they are protected, documented, and accessible for generations to come. This work safeguards Boone County’s history so it can continue to be studied, shared, and enjoyed.
We Exhibit
Through rotating and permanent exhibitions, we bring Boone County’s stories to life. From history galleries to the Montminy Art Gallery, our exhibitions showcase historic artifacts alongside contemporary creative work, offering a full and evolving picture of our community.
We Interpret
We interpret history by providing context, connection, and meaning. Through exhibitions, education programs, tours, and events, we help visitors understand not just what happened, but why it matters today and how today’s stories become tomorrow’s history.
