Research Library & Archives
The Butler County Historical Society maintains the Rolla A. Clymer Memorial Research Library, a collection of historical resources documenting Butler County, the Kansas oil industry, and the people who shaped this region.
Whether you are researching family history, property records, or local stories, our collections provide a deep connection to the past.
Discover the Stories of Butler County
Our collections support a wide range of research interests:
• Genealogy and family history
• Butler County and regional history
• Kansas oil industry research
• Property, land, and community records
• School and local organization history
• Historic photographs and archives
What You Can Research
Our archives include:
• 4,000+ books and manuscripts
• El Dorado newspapers on microfilm (1870–present)
• Historic photographs and archival collections
• Butler County plat maps (1885, 1905)
• El Dorado city atlases (1917, 1930)
• City directories and community records
• School yearbooks
• Cemetery and tombstone records
• Genealogy collections and periodicals
• Rare and vintage books
Collections & Resources
Research Tools
We provide access to tools that support in-depth research:
• Microfilm reader with digital capabilities
• Copier and scanner for document and image reproduction
Using the Research Library
The research library is available during regular museum hours.
Monday – Closed
Tuesday – Closed
Wednesday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday – Closed
Knowledgeable volunteers are periodically available to assist with genealogy and local history research.
Because volunteer availability varies, please contact the museum ahead of your visit to confirm times when assistance is available.
Research Assistance
Online Resources
-
Coming Soon
-
Coming Soon
-
Coming Soon
-
Coming Soon
Research Services & Requests
If you are unable to visit in person, the museum offers research services.
Available services include:
• Obituary lookup - $10
• General research assistance - Starting at $15
• Historic photo duplication - Contact for prices
Research services are completed based on staff/volunteer availability.
Submit a Research Request
We welcome research requests from local and long-distance researchers.
To submit a request, please provide:
• Name(s) or topic being researched
• Relevant dates or time period
• Type of information requested
• Any known details or background
Support The Research Library
Research services are supported through donations, which help sustain the preservation and accessibility of our collections.
Get Involved
Volunteer with the Research Library
We are actively seeking volunteers interested in:
• Genealogy and family history
• Archival organization and preservation
• Assisting researchers
• Developing new research-based programs
Help Build New Programs
We are especially interested in volunteers who would like to help start or lead programs such as:
• Genealogy groups
• Local history discussion groups
• Research workshops
• Community archive projects
If you have an interest in helping grow research opportunities at the museum, we would love to hear from you.
Plan Your Research Visit
Whether you are beginning your research or continuing a long-term project, the Kansas Oil Museum offers a unique space to explore Butler County’s history.