First Citizen: The Industrious Life of Joseph G. Butler, Jr.

Mahoning Valley Historical Society announces its May Bites and Bits of History lunchtime program at the Tyler History Center. “Remembering Joseph G. Butler, Jr.”, will be a free presentation at noon on Thursday, May 18, 2023.

Join local author Joseph Lambert as he reintroduces the industrious life and career of one of one of the Mahoning Valley’s finest citizens and why his contemporaries fondly regarded him as their First Citizen.

Many residents of Youngstown and the greater Mahoning Valley are familiar with The Butler, otherwise known as The Butler Institute of American Art. Arguably the art museum, named for its founder, is the most beautiful and recognized gift of Joseph G. Butler, Jr. Visitors come from all over the world to view and admire the world class art work on display in its permanent collection.

During his day, Butler was a man held in high regard among his peers, political figures, and the common average citizen. This was not because he was a man of wealth and influence, but rather because of the many worthwhile projects that he championed. Joseph Butler was a man of action who took the lead in various causes that in some way helped to uplift the Mahoning Valley. Although he earned a small fortune during his life he was not a man of leisure. He remained an active, productive, and far-sighted individual throughout his life. Many of Butler’s works continue to serve and enlighten our lives. Unfortunately, few people are aware of his industrious life and all that he did for his community.

Those attending this program are invited to bring a brown bag lunch. Bites and Bits of History lunchtime programs are underwritten by the John and Loretta Hynes Foundation.