Butler

The town of Butler was founded in 1800. Named after Gen. Richard Butler and the county seat, Butler has enjoyed a rich manufacturing heritage and business climate.

Pictured Butler County Courthouse

Credit Chris Mitchell

Built in Butler

Industries have shaped Butler’s history, providing opportunities to learn and appreciate how the community has changed and adapted through the years.

Butler’s manufacturing past is reflected in the steel, oil, gas and automotive industries that brought economic success to the region. One of Butler’s claims to fame is that it is home to the original military “jeep” that made American forces mobile during World War II. Six other vehicles were manufactured in Butler in the early 1900s. Local museums preserve the impact those industries made on the community in various historical exhibits.

Preserving the past is important here. Many significant structures have seen new life as house museums and have been listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Regularly scheduled walking tours provide insightful glimpses into the people and places that play a role in Butler’s past and present.

Although the past is celebrated here, the activities happening today and the exciting developments of tomorrow are where the real excitement lies. Butler has emerged as a vibrant, “artsy” town that adds color, creativity and a fresh perspective to daily life. Painters, sculptors, actors, musicians and singers have many fantastic venues to display and promote their talents. Exhibits and performing arts events are constantly scheduled, injecting a lively cultural atmosphere in the community.

Restaurants, both in town and on the outskirts of the business district, provide unique locations to enjoy a light lunch or gourmet dinner. Local chefs frequently acquire fresh fruits and vegetables, meat products and dairy items from farms located nearby.

Take time to enjoy a stroll through Butler. Whether it is a unique gift item in a storefront window, a new art exhibit or priceless collectibles featured in a museum, you’ll discover interesting facts and welcoming people in Butler.

The Birthplace of the Jeep

The American Bantam Car Company invented, developed and produced one of the most famous vehicles in the world – the jeep. It all happened here in Butler, PA.

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The Great Walls of Butler County

Butler County has so many great murals! So you can find them all easily, we made a walking tour of downtown Butler. Many of them were painted by a group of Walldogs.

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