At this time, we are requiring proof of full COVID-19 immunization or a negative COVID test within 48 hours to visit the Filson. A mask is required to be worn while inside the Filson.
For inclement weather the Filson follows University of Louisville closures.
Here is some important information to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and productive visit to the Filson.
Yes, we are requiring all visitors and staff to wear masks in public spaces inside our facilities. Children under two are not required to wear a mask.
Do I need to provide proof of COVID-19 immunization or negative COVID test?
Your health and safety are top priorities for us at the Filson Historical Society. Starting September 1st, we are requiring visitors and staff to be fully vaccinated. Children under 12 years old are not required to be vaccinated. Please bring proof of full COVID-19 immunization when you visit the Filson. The vaccine card or a photo of the card will be accepted. Those unable to receive the vaccination will need to show proof of a negative COVID test from within 48 hours of their planned visit, which should be a printed or electronic copy of their test results.
What other policies are in effect?
We are introducing new procedures to protect the health of our visitors and staff. We ask that all visitors adhere to social distancing of six feet from anyone not in your group. We also have setup sanitation stations throughout our buildings for your convenience. Staff will be sanitizing high contact items and areas throughout the day.
What am I allowed to bring with me?
Each visitor will need to bring their own mask along with proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. If you are attending a tour, please bring your ticket, either digitally or printed out. Large bags, backpacks, luggage, food, or drinks are not permitted inside the exhibits, during research in the reading rooms, or on tours. Lockers are available for free and will be sanitized after every use.
Visitor Responsibility
We ask that all visitors adhere to these new policies to protect the safety of other visitors and Filson staff. If you are feeling ill or having symptoms of COVID-19, we ask that you stay home and visit us at a later date.
Visiting our campus
We welcome you to visit us! The Filson’s operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm. Our exhibition galleries and research library are open during these times. Our main entrance is located in the Carriage House behind the Ferguson Mansion. See below for more detailed information regarding directions, parking, and accessibility.
Daily Tours
We offer free, guided tours every weekday at 2 pm. On this 45-60 minute tour, visitors will tour the campus, including the historic Ferguson Mansion and Wood Carriage House, and the 2016 addition to our campus, the Owsley Brown II History Center. Registration is required for these tours. Walk-ins are welcome, but capacity is restricted. Make a reservation in our online portal to guarantee your spot.
Group Tours
To schedule a group tour, please contact Community Engagement Specialist, Emma Bryan. The Filson is only accommodating groups of 10 or less at this time.
Schools can visit the Filson for tours of the historic Ferguson mansion and exhibit galleries and take advantage of the library and collections for research purposes. Reservations are required. For more information, please email Scott Scarboro.
Research in the Collections
Research hours at the Filson are Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm; we close at 12:30 pm on the third Friday of each month. Most of our materials are on site and are pulled on demand, however we are not able to pull museum items on demand. Due to COVID-19 in person research is by appointment only for all visitors starting January 18th, 2022. Learn more!
Research fees are waived for most Filson members, $10 for non-members, and students do not incur a research fee thanks to the David Armstrong Fellowships. Learn more about membership!
Host Your Next Event Here!
The Filson is a unique venue that blends the historic with the modern and provides a stunning background for any event. Several areas of the campus are available to be rented for dinners, retreats, meetings, receptions, parties, or weddings. Learn more and contact us here!
Directions
From Interstate 65 S: Take exit 135 (St. Catherine Street) and turn right at the end of the ramp. Follow St. Catherine until you come to Third Street, then turn left. Continue down Third Street through two stoplights. The Filson is immediately on your right just past W. Ormsby Ave.
From Interstate 65 N: Take exit 135 (St. Catherine Street) and turn left at the end of the ramp. Follow St. Catherine until you come to Third Street, then turn left. Continue down Third Street through two stoplights. The Filson is immediately on your right just past W. Ormsby Ave.
Parking
The Filson has parking lots on the north and south sides of the Ferguson Mansion, Wood Carriage House, and Owsley Brown II History Center. The Filson also owns an adjacent lot at the northeast corner of Ormsby and Third Streets. Accessible parking is available on the south side of the campus, and all parking on the north side allows for stairs-free accessible entrance to our buildings as well. Parking for all Filson events, research, and tours is free of charge. Street parking is also available nearby on Third Street and Ormsby Avenue.
Accessibility
The Filson Historical Society’s campus is accessible to people with physical disabilities.
Accessibility features include:
Designated handicap parking located on the south side of the Ferguson Mansion and Owsley Brown II History Center
Accessible doors located on both sides of the Wood Carriage House and Owsley Brown II History Center
Elevators
If you have any questions about accessibility prior to your visit, please contact us at 502-635-5083.
Nearby Accommodations
The Filson is close to a variety of places to stay if you are planning to visit from out of town. Click hereto see a list of nearby accommodations.
