Shelby County Historical Society

The Old Shelby County Courthouse was constructed in 1913.

The Shelby County Historical Society's Museum built in 1872

Shelby News Printing House

Bridge near Hall & Stewart Lumber Co.

1847 Shelby County Courthouse

Science Hill graduating class, 1937 – 1938

Page from The Shelby Sentinel, April 9, 1946

The Allen & Bell Coal Company poster

1904 view of downtown Shelbyville, KY

Hubert and Ollie Ford standing in front of their home in Christiansburg

Major General James Franklin Bell served in the United States Army from 1878–1919 and as Chief of Staff of the United States Army from 1906 – 1910

The Marquis de Lafayette attended a ball in Shelbyville during his 1825 Grand Tour

A postcard scene of Science Hill Female Academy, 1825- 1939

Upcoming Events

Veteran Flag Project

Honoring Those Who Serve

Celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with us and America’s 250th birthday long after 2026! Be a part of our ongoing Veteran Flag Project and preserve the memory of your special Veteran for years to come. Patriot Ancestor version available as well.

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Museum Information

Open to the public, free admission

627 Main St., Shelbyville, KY 40065

+1 (502) 513-5555

Museum Times

Wednesday – Friday 10AM to 4PM

Saturday – 10AM to 2PM

Or by appointment

Legacy of Refinement

Legacy of Refinement highlights the 200-year anniversary of Science Hill Female Academy, an educational mecca in our community since 1825. It is dedicated to the memory of long-time SCHS member Sherry Jelsma, a writer and editor of several publications. The magazine focuses on the fascinating history of Science Hill Female Academy, Science Hill Inn, and Wakefield-Scearce Galleries.

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