The Bent County Historical Society (BHS) exists to promote the unique history and culture of Bent County to a multigenerational audience. Founded in 1957 and officially becoming a non-profit in 1968, BHS operates the John W. Rawlings Heritage Center & Museum, the Boggsville National Historical Site, the Old Trail Art Gallery housed at the Museum, and assists with tourism at the Kit Carson Chapel at Fort Lyon. The Heritage Library at the Center provides research assistance in local history and genealogy. Our goal is to offer programs and events that demonstrate the diverse cultural history of the area, highlighting programs that show its impact on the economic and cultural development of Colorado and the southeastern plains.
The Historical Society operated the Kit Carson Museum from April 28, 1961, at 9th and Bent, which served as the headquarters of the society. The old Museum was closed in 2009 and reopened at 560 Bent Avenue as the John W. Rawlings Heritage Center & Museum. In 2017, the Society changed their name to Bent County Historical Society and is proud to serve you! Please call 719-456-6066 if you have any questions.