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Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, Shelby County is a treasure trove of historical significance that stretches back to the earliest days of American westward settlement. The Shelby County Historical Society, led by Executive Director Helen McKinney, promotes these rich stories and artifacts that connect present-day residents to their fascinating past. As a direct descendant of Samuel Boone (brother to the famous frontiersmen Daniel and Squire Boone), McKinney brings a personal connection to the history she helps preserve.
The Historical Society operates from a historic Presbyterian manse dating back to 1872, offering visitors a glimpse into the county's storied past through rotating exhibits and educational programming. Their current exhibit celebrates the bicentennial of Science Hill Female Academy, founded by Julia Tevis in 1825. This pioneering educational institution was remarkable for its time, offering young women instruction in subjects like Latin, Greek, French, and botany—educational opportunities that were exceedingly rare for women in what was then still considered "wilderness" Kentucky. The academy's significance extends beyond education; when the Marquis de Lafayette made his famous farewell tour of America in 1825, he reportedly visited Shelbyville and conversed in French with Julia Tevis, as she was one of the few people in the area fluent in the language. [Click here to listen to our interview with Matt Burnett, president & CEO of Wakefield-Scearce Galleries, for more on Science Hill and the gallery that now occupies its space.]
The Historical Society's programming extends far beyond exhibit curation. Their award-winning summer history camp engages dozens of local children annually, connecting young people with their community's heritage through hands-on activities and visits to historic sites like Grove Hill Cemetery. The popular "History Matters Speaker Series," hosted in partnership with the local library, regularly draws crowds of 50-75 people eager to learn about topics ranging from the Lincoln Institute to the history of Science Hill Female Academy. McKinney is developing a "History in a Trunk" program to directly take artifacts and living history experiences to local elementary schools.
Looking forward, Shelby County Historical Society is leading local preparations for America's 250th birthday celebration in 2026. Their "Countdown to USA 250" initiative includes special programming like their "With Liberty and Justice for All" series featuring historians from institutions like the Filson Historical Society. They're also producing "History Minutes"—60-second video clips highlighting significant historical events with connections to Shelby County. These preparations will culminate in what McKinney envisions as a "humongous parade" in 2026, with patriotic decorations throughout the town honoring America's semiquincentennial and Shelby County's contributions to American history.
The society also preserves more somber aspects of local history. The Simpsonville Massacre, where Black Union soldiers were killed by Confederate guerrillas during the Civil War and buried in a mass grave, has been the subject of intensive research by society members Jerry Miller and Juanita White. Their painstaking work through pension records has identified the soldiers, and archaeological work with the University of Kentucky may soon pinpoint the location of the mass grave. This ongoing research demonstrates the Historical Society's commitment to uncovering and honoring all aspects of the county's complex history.
For those intrigued by Shelby County's rich heritage, the Historical Society museum is open Wednesday through Friday from 10 AM to 4 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, or by appointment. Membership starts at just $25 annually, with higher support levels named after historical figures like the "Julia Tevis level" at $100. These contributions help fund the society's extensive programming, research efforts, and preservation work, ensuring that Shelby County's historical treasures remain accessible for generations to come.
