Built by Butler’s only United States senator, Walter Lowrie, in 1828, this is the last remaining house of its type in the Butler area. A listing on the National Register of Historic Places has recognized its historical and architectural significance.
The
house and its furnishings were bequeathed to the Society in 1986, by
Isabelle Shaw, a descendent of the Sullivan family, owners of the house
since 1839.
Major restoration projects have been completed, both structural and decorative. Furnishings have been returned to their appropriate rooms, the original Wilton wall-to-wall carpet has been recreated, and the house has been returned to its splendor of the late 19th century.
The house museum is open to the public Sundays, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. and Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., from May through August and for special events. Call to make special arrangements for group tours. Admission: $3.00 per adult, $1.00 per youth ages 5-17, and free for children under 5 and Butler County Historical Society members.
The Lowrie/Shaw House is located on West Diamond Street, directly behind the Butler County Courthouse, in Butler. The offices of the Butler County Historical Society are now housed in this museum.