Hidden Treasures:

Butler Institute of American Art

Sometimes when you grow up with wonderful museums and parks within minutes of your home, you tend to take them for granted. In fact, you assume that the rest of the world has these same things. It isn’t until I started traveling as an adult that I realized that what we have in Youngstown, Ohio, is not only pretty special, but it is in fact hidden treasures that the rest of the world may never see. The Butler Institute of American Art is one of these hidden treasures in Youngstown. 

What is the Butler Institute of American Art?

Youngstown, Ohio, home to The Butler Institue of American Art, sits halfway between Cleveland, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, PA. This museum is such a special place to visit that it is definitely worth the trip. The Butler Institute holds a distinction that makes it bucket list worthy. It was the first museum dedicated to American Art. Because of this, it should be the first on your list when you talk about American artists. This museum was established by Joseph Butler who was an American philanthropist. 

You see at one time, Youngstown was considered a bustling city with some wealthy citizens. When Butler established the Art Institute it was to house his personal collection. The museum was dedicated in 1919, and when Butler died in 1927, he left the bulk of his estate to the museum (approximately $1,500,00). That was quite a lot of money in 1927. 

The building is absolutely stunning inside and out. Words and pictures cannot do it justice. The architects were McKim, Mead, and White from New York City. This firm was responsible for designing many buildings, but some of the most famous include the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C., and renovation of the East and West Wings of the White House. The Butler is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a distinction that is well-deserved. 

Famous Works Owned by The Butler

But it isn’t just the building that will wow you! The Butler houses works of art such as Winslow Homer’s SNAP THE WHIP: Back when I was a young girl, field trips consisted of The Youngstown Symphony, The Arms Museum, The Circus, and The Butler. And I remember taking the tour of this museum and not understanding the significance of having this in my hometown. Snap the Whip is such one of my favorites as I have grown to love it over the years. The artist originally painted two versions: The one below and a slightly different version housed in the Metropolitan Museum Art in New York City. 

Another famous painting in the Butler collection is young Abraham Lincoln by Norman Rockwell entitled Lincoln the Railsplitter. This greater than life-size portrait is a sight that must be seen. To read more about Norman Rockwell and the museum dedicated to his art in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, Click HERE! 

In addition to the great collection that the museum owns, it also hosts special exhibits. You can check the schedule before you go to see the exhibits currently on display. The facility is also a favorite spot for weddings, cocktail parties, business meetings, and more. This impressive venue makes that special day a perfect day! 

Some of our favorite pieces at The Butler:

One of Jack-Jack’s favorite pieces is the security guard sculpture. No matter how many times he sees this guard, he will stand and stare and get down and look closer. This guard is so incredibly lifelike. Even though I know it isn’t real, I am truly mesmerized by the detail found in this work of art.

Before You Go:

Admission to the Butler Institute of American Art is free, and they do not take any money from the city or county. They do, however, accept donations as they rely on contributions to meet their mission. This gem is in the heart of Youngstown, Ohio, and sits adjacent to the beautiful campus of Youngstown State University. When you go, be prepared to spend several hours. Additionally, there is a gift shop and a cafe on the premises. The collection owned by the museum exceeds 20,000 pieces. I could give you a gallery by gallery tour, but why not find out for yourself how impressive the Butler is?

The Butler can be found at 524 Wick Ave., Youngstown, Ohio. Visit the website HERE to learn more and for the hours of operation. 

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