News & Alerts

UPDATE September 27, 2024: Pioneer Life Update: Due to safety and operational concerns stemming from Hurricane Helene's ongoing effects, Pioneer Life at Governor Bebb MetroPark has been canceled both Saturday, September 28th and Sunday, September 29th. MetroParks will update all communication channels if the event can be rescheduled in October, so stay tuned for more updates.

Pioneer Life, MetroParks of Butler County’s annual celebration of local history returns to Governor Bebb MetroPark at the end of September. Pioneer Life has been extended to two days in 2024, giving visitors more time to explore everything the event offers.

When: September 28 - 29, 2024 from 12 – 4 p.m.
Where: Governor Bebb MetroPark- 1979 Bebb Park Ln. Okeana, OH 45053
Cost: $5 per person (children aged two and under are FREE)

Step back in time to early 1800s Ohio at Governor Bebb MetroParks’ Pioneer Village and interact with interpreters in historic dress, sample pioneer cooking, make candles and learn your lessons in the village’s schoolhouse. Visitors can also see live historic weapons demonstrations, visit with farm animals and play games from days past.

Governor Bebb MetroPark is named for William Bebb, the 19th Governor of Ohio. Bebb was born in Okeana in 1802 and his childhood home was relocated to the park in the late 1950's. The Bebb cabin is one of seven historic buildings and a replica forge in Pioneer Village. A tavern, schoolhouse, covered bridge and other family dwellings were all relocated to the park between 1959-1992.

Click here for more information about Pioneer Life.