The discovery of oil in 1915 transformed Butler County and helped shape Kansas history. Today, the Kansas Oil Museum preserves those stories—connecting the past to the present through exhibits, education, and community programs.

Your support helps ensure that these stories continue to be shared with future generations.

Support the Butler County Historical Society home of the Kansas Oil Museum

Why Your Support Matters

Every donation directly supports the work of the museum, including:

• Preserving historic buildings and equipment
• Caring for artifacts and archival collections
• Creating engaging exhibits and programs
• Supporting educational opportunities for students and families
• Expanding community events and outreach

As a nonprofit organization, the museum relies on the generosity of donors, members, and community supporters to continue this work.

  • “The Kansas Oil Museum strives to educate K-12 students as well as seniors and everyone in between as they offer unique educational programs and resources not available in other museums."

    Ron Estes | U.S. Congressman, 4th District

  • "This museum has provided a great opportunity for others to learn how El Dorado and the oil industry have contributed to the economic growth of our state and the fuel independence of our country."

    Michael A. Fagg | Kansas State Senator

  • "The Kansas Oil Museum is one of El Dorado's main attractions and the reason so many come to visit our community."

    Will Carpenter | Representative, 75th District

Fuel the Future of the Museum

Your gift—large or small—makes a difference.

We accept donations online, as well as by cash or check.

Contribute to
3% Cover the Fee

Your contribution—whether one-time or recurring (weekly, monthly, quarterly, or annually)—supports the general operations of the Kansas Oil Museum. Funds go toward maintaining exhibits, caring for historic artifacts, and sustaining the museum’s overall programs and services for the community.

Join the Tour Monthly Club

3% Cover the Fee

Your gift is a recurring monthly donation that directly supports the costs of the Kansas Oil Museum’s educational programming, including Speaker Series lectures, Homeschool Days, theatre productions, school tours, and other hands-on learning experiences. Your support also allows us to plan and develop new educational programs throughout the year, helping us engage more visitors and students with Kansas oil and Butler County history.

Supporting Education, One Shift at a Time

The Kansas Oil Museum is proud to introduce the Tour Monthly Club—pronounced “Tower,” a nod to the oil field term for a working shift on a drilling crew. Just as a shift on the rig represents daily effort and teamwork, members of this club make a steady, meaningful contribution each month to expand its educational programs.

Other Ways to Give

Become a Member

Membership supports the museum year-round while offering additional benefits and perks.

Dillons Community Rewards

Support the museum while you shop.

By linking your Dillons Plus Shopper’s Card to the Kansas Oil Museum, a portion of your purchases will be donated to the museum at no additional cost to you.

Use NPO #38780 or search for the Kansas Oil Museum.

Donate Your Time

Volunteers are a vital part of the museum’s success.

From assisting with events and programs to helping preserve collections and maintain the grounds, every contribution of time helps bring history to life.

Donate an Artifact

The museum actively collects items that help tell the story of Butler County and the Kansas oil industry.

We accept donations of photographs, artifacts, documents, and other historically significant materials that align with our mission.

Before Donating

To ensure proper care and relevance, all potential donations must be reviewed by our Collections Committee.

Please submit:

• Photos of the item
• A description and historical relevance
• Dimensions and estimated age
• Ownership history (if known)
• Your contact information

The committee reviews submissions periodically and evaluates items based on significance, condition, and available space.

Please note:

• We do not accept drop-off donations without prior approval
• The museum does not provide monetary appraisals

Make an Impact

Every contribution—whether financial, material, or time—helps preserve the history of Butler County and the Kansas oil industry.

Together, we ensure that the stories of this community continue to educate and inspire future generations.