The Filson Historical Society

Their mission:  To collect, preserve, and share the significant history and culture of Kentucky and the Ohio Valley.

Their values: The Filson is committed to the work of Preservation, Access, and Education. It pursues ever greater Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Its operations are characterized by Excellence, Service, and Integrity.

Their vision: To be a nationally preeminent historical society that inspires its communities to build a stronger present and future through learning from their past.

The organization was named in honor of John Filson, Kentucky’s first historian, whose book, The Discovery, Settlement, and Present State of Kentucke, and map of Kentucky were published in 1784. In honor of Filson and the centennial of those historical publications the organization was christened The Filson Club. From that small gathering of amateur historians in Durrett’s home, the institution evolved into Kentucky’s privately supported historical society.