10658756_10152430171618806_2130957445339350277_o

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.

2025’s Special Exhibits Await You

May 1 to October 15
Museum Building

In the South Gallery, you will find “Wood Craftsmanship: Highlights from the Collection.” Spot the similarities between your home and our collection of furniture, and learn about some of the tools used to create them. Enhanced by artwork and other housewares, this exhibit is filled with craftsmanship.

In the North Gallery, we have reset last year’s popular exhibit “Madison County Alphabet Soup.” The only thing the artifacts in this exhibit have in common is that they represent Madison County! From aviation to quarries to Pythians, and a bed for good measure, enjoy a stroll through the alphabet via objects that represent all 26 letters!

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.

Represented in this complex is a lasting record of a way of life of the people of Madison County, Iowa preserved for all to see, treasure and enjoy.

Please visit and come back often to experience History on the Hill.