History on the Hill | Madison County Historical Museum & Complex

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The Madison County Historical Complex

Open May 1 to October 15 each year, the Complex welcomes individuals, families, and tour groups as we fulfill our mission to engage the public in the heritage, culture, and preservation of Madison County History.

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Historical Society Seeking
120 New Members in their 120th Year

In March, 2024, the Madison County Historical Society kicked off a special Membership Campaign to enlist 120 new members in our 120th year. We are asking you to become a member to help foster history in Madison County.

In 1904, 10 foresighted individuals realized that Madison County history was endangered by the deaths of its earliest settlers. They began accumulating what they termed “relics” and remembrances. Due to their efforts and the work of others throughout 120 years, the Historical Society is thriving with 25 acres, 14 buildings, and countless artifacts and documents that record every era of Madison County history.

These items have been catalogued, preserved, and displayed for the enjoyment of visitors, researching by students at all levels, and are vital to family historians. Madison County communities, school districts, and organizations call upon this collection to understand their past.

Won’t you support the effort of so many and help us meet our goal?
A membership form can be found here.

Visit us in 2025 to explore the past through the lens of local history.

The Madison County Historical Complex is located on 25 picturesque acres on the south edge of Winterset, Iowa. Its crown jewel is the 1856 Bevington Mansion constructed by C.D. “Doc” Bevington, restored and furnished in rich Victorian style.

Our collections include Civil War and military items, quilts, glassware, local business memorabilia, household and domestic items, early farm machinery and technology, tools and barbed wire, rocks, fossils, Native American Artifacts, and a research library. Visitors can take their time exploring our grounds, structures and exhibits, or reserve a space here for a special event or gathering with built-in opportunities for entertainment and beautiful photos.