General Butler State Resort Park is a fitting tribute to one of Kentucky’s foremost military families. Named for General William Orlando Butler, the family’s military fame spans from colonial time through the American Revolution, the War of 1812, the Mexican War and the Civil War.
General Butler is a full-service resort, open year round. School activities can range from nature hikes, touring Butler-Turpin State Historic House, animal programs, to just having fun like playing a round of mini golf, or participating in teambuilding games. Fees range from $3-$5 per student. Call Tanya Supplee, Parks Program Service Supervisor weekdays from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at General Butler State Resort Park at 1-502-732-4384 for further information.
Butler-Turpin State Historic House
The Butler-Turpin State Historic House located at General Butler State Resort Park is steeped in military heritage of the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the Mexican War and the Civil War. Students will understand a time post of historical periods as they engage in the core curriculum programming offered at this site. Along with the historic house and summer kitchen built in 1859, is the archaeology of the log house, the Butler Family Cemetery and the surrounding grounds that was once the Butler farm.
The confluence of the Kentucky and Ohio Rivers play an important part as the history site interprets the 1790 farm life of Kentucky’s 1st Adjutant General with the annual event, “The Early American Farm of the Kentucky Frontier,” held in April. A Farmer, Hunter-Trapper-Trader, Herb Doctor, Slave Woman, Itinerate Musician and Dance Caller will interpret life of the time period. Students will understand Kentucky’s Ohio River Valley during the early years of settlement, identify the importance of geography and natural resources to the development of the region and compare and contrast lifestyles. This special program includes an in-depth pre-post visit packet.
Offered year round is “Life At Two Rivers” which interprets rural life of the19th century 2nd generation Butlers along with the rich riverboat history of the region. The program unfolds as a period dressed guide describes how living on the rivers is a unique way of life. While visiting the historic house the students will meet a farmhand delivering a surprise cargo that arrived earlier by riverboat. Students will engage in the hands-on experience of unloading the contents and interacting with a period reproduction collection that includes an ink pen w/ paper, books, games, clothing, household objects, photographs, dishes, fabric and notions, medicines and more. Prices range from $2-$4 each; teachers, aides and bus drivers are free. Call 502-732-4384 for school program packets, reservations, admission and other details for both programs. Ask for the Historic House Museum Manager.