The Bella Vista Historical Museum, operated by the Bella Vista Historical Society, was constructed in 1984 and formally opened on April 14, 1985. The building was erected with the help of individuals and groups interested in preserving the early culture and history of this community.
The Benton County Daily Democrat, on Monday April 15, 1985, reported that 250 people attended the grand opening (which was postponed several times because of bad weather) on Sunday afternoon. As part of the four-hour ceremony, the American flag was raised with the help of the American Legion Color Guard, led by Marshall Sayner.
In 1996 a large room was added on to the back of the building, and this spring another addition is nearly complete, on the north end of the building, which will house more exhibits from the 1915-1965 time frame of Bella Vista history.
The Historical Society will be holding its annual membership meeting, to which the public is invited, at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25, at the museum. In addition to an election of officers, a progress report on the new addition will be given, after which everyone is welcome to tour the building and historical exhibits.
Plans for the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Lake Bella Vista, constructed in 1915, will also be discussed.
A celebration will be held at Lake Bella Vista from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, on the west side of the lake, along U.S. 71, just south of the walking trail parking lot, with exhibits, presentations and refreshments served in the big tent erected for that day.
Recognition will also be given to the 50th anniversary of the founding of Bella Vista Village by John Cooper Sr., in 1965. Everyone is invited to stop by the tent and join in on the celebrations. For more information, see www.bellavistamuseum.org.
General News on 04/22/2015