The museum building was built circa 1862 as the home of Dr. John S. Law, father of Loveland's first mayor. It is a modified Italianate in style - a popular architectural style in the Victorian era. The house had a veranda which surrounded the front and two sides. The estate originally contained 97 acres. The spectacular view of the Scenic Little Miami River may have prompted the name "Bonaventure", which means good fortune. In early 1900’s, the estate was subdivided by the Hubbell family. The building had several owners, including The Cincinnati Automobile Club, which used it for a clubhouse and restaurant. Dr. Frank Lever, a prominent Loveland physician, purchased the home in 1926, where he and his family resided until the 1950’s. The American Legion purchased the building in 1959, they enclosed the north side of the veranda for a restaurant and bar. A gift from C. Roger Nisbet enabled the Loveland Historical Society to buy it in 1982.
The museum was opened to the public on July 7, 1984. Using period furnishings, photos, maps, prints, and artifacts, the Museum paints a vivid picture of Loveland's long and interesting history. The region's historic Indian tribes, the first pioneers, the arrival and growth of railroads, the Underground Railroad, and the process of Loveland's growth as a suburb and a city are all illustrated on a Time Line. The Stanton G. Brock Gallery, named for a life member and museum benefactor, contains various and rotating exhibits including art work, Civil War artifacts, vintage textiles, and the personal collections and treasures of members and other friends of the museum.
The museum was remodeled in 2007-2008 to include a second parlor, dining room, 1920’s kitchen and second bedroom. Most rooms are decorated in a Victorian era décor.
The museum is actually just one element of the campus of historic structures, facilities and resources operated by the Greater Loveland Historical Society. The museum is open to the public year round, Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 4:30 and by appointment. Admission and parking are free; donations are gratefully accepted. The museum’s first floor, library and History House are all handicap accessible and membership is open to everyone.
| | 
|
