70 Years of MetroParks

The Butler County Park District (MetroParks of Butler County) was established in 1955, the vision of two men who sought to protect and preserve green space in Butler County. Gilbert E. (Gus) Condo of Hamilton was a local lawyer, the national director of the Izaak Walton League and a passionate nature advocate. Gus Condo was the driving force for organizing the original park district, assisted by his friend and colleague Judge Harry F. Walsh. Judge Walsh appointed the original three volunteer members of the Butler County Park Board: Gus Condo, Earl H. Thompson (Hamilton) and Charles W. Denny (Middletown). 

Below left: Walter A. Rentschler, David Urmston and Judge Harry Walsh pose for a photo op after the Butler County Park District acquired the land that would later become Rentschler Forest MetroPark.
Below right: Bruce Diehl, the first Director of the Butler County Park District. 

Three men in suits posing with a check to purchase park property
The first MetroParks director helps to repair vandalism at Indian Creek

Between 1955-1956, the Butler County Park Board managed a budget of $20,000 and acquired 91 acres of land used to open three parks to the general public. One of those parks is still managed by MetroParks of Butler County today: Indian Creek MetroPark! In the years since, the park district has added nearly 4,900 acres, opened 23 parks and regional trails and has blossomed into the destination for outdoor recreation and education in the county. MetroParks has also led the charge with local conservation and land stewardship initiatives, with 1,100 acres currently being managed as active conservation areas.

The First 10 Years

ID 70

Help us mark our 70th Anniversary as we reveal our 70 favorite elements of the park experience. From the fossil-filled creeks to the tops of the towering trees and constellations beyond, get an inside view of what makes the history and nature of your MetroParks so unique. Every ID70 program in 2025 spotlights seven interesting subjects in each category; attend all ten to add 70 new pieces of park and nature knowledge to your collection.

 

Upcoming Programs & Events


Three girls looking at fossils in a creek bed

 

Celebrate with Us!

June 8th is our birthday, but we're celebrating all year long! Keep an eye out for a large, fun surprise coming to Voice of America MetroPark soon.