Pioneer Life, MetroParks of Butler County’s annual celebration of local history returns to Governor Bebb MetroPark at the end of September. Because of overwhelming demand, Pioneer Life has been extended to two days in 2025.

When:  September 27 - 28, 2025 from 12 – 4 p.m.
Where: Governor Bebb MetroPark- 1979 Bebb Park Ln. Okeana, OH 45053
Cost: $5 per person (NO COST for children ages 2 years and under)

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

Governor Bebb MetroPark is named for William Bebb, the 19^th Governor of Ohio. Bebb was born in Okeana in 1802 and his childhood home was relocated to the park in the late 1950s. 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.