Organizations, archives, and online tools for researching Bowling Green's historic properties and architectural heritage.
Links to external organizations are provided for informational purposes. We are not affiliated with any of the organizations listed below unless explicitly stated. Verify current contact information and services directly with each organization.
The primary local organization for the documentation and preservation of Warren County history. Maintains archival materials including photographs, documents, and genealogical records related to Bowling Green and the surrounding region.
Western Kentucky University's Special Collections houses significant archival holdings related to Bowling Green and south-central Kentucky, including historic photographs, maps, newspaper archives, and local history collections.
Can direct inquiries to appropriate local resources for business history, historic commercial properties, and community organizations.
The state agency responsible for historic preservation programs in Kentucky. Administers the Kentucky Historic Preservation Survey, maintains the Kentucky Historic Resources Inventory, and provides guidance on National Register nominations and rehabilitation tax credits.
Verify current contact info at the official Kentucky state website.
The federal government's official list of historic properties worthy of preservation. The National Park Service maintains an online database of all National Register listings, including those in Warren County, Kentucky.
A national nonprofit providing resources, advocacy, and technical assistance for preservation efforts across the country. Maintains useful educational resources on preservation techniques and incentives.
Sanborn maps were produced for most American cities throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries for fire insurance purposes. They show building footprints, construction materials, and uses — invaluable for tracing the development of individual lots over time. Many are available through the Library of Congress and university libraries.
The Warren County Property Valuation Administrator's office and the County Clerk maintain property transfer and deed records that can help establish building dates and ownership histories.
An online repository of digitized Kentucky historical materials including photographs, newspapers, maps, and documents from institutions across the state.
For everything happening in Bowling Green today — events, dining, neighborhood guides, and practical information about living in and visiting the city. The leading local guide for current BG life.