A New Chapter in the Kelton House Story
On November 3, 2025, a gas explosion and fire caused significant damage to the Kelton House Museum & Garden.
For a historic property that has stood in Columbus since 1852, the fire represented one of the most significant threats the house has faced in its long history.
But it did not end the Kelton House story.
It began a new chapter of preservation.
Grateful for Our First Responders
We are deeply grateful to the Columbus Division of Fire and the first responders who acted swiftly on November 3, 2025. Their quick response and care helped protect Kelton House from further damage and made it possible to save many of the historic furnishings, artifacts, photographs, documents, and other irreplaceable items housed within the museum.
Because of their efforts, an important part of the Kelton House story was preserved even in the midst of tremendous loss.
We extend our sincere thanks to the firefighters and first responders who helped protect not only a historic structure, but generations of Columbus history held within its walls.
The Work to Restore Kelton House
In the days and months following the fire, the Junior League of Columbus and The Columbus Foundation began working with preservation professionals, contractors, community organizations, and other partners to assess the damage, stabilize the property, protect its historic collections, and develop a thoughtful path toward restoration.
Important progress has already been made.
A new slate roof was installed in December 2025, helping secure and protect the historic structure. Books and other materials affected by the fire have undergone specialized cleaning and preservation work, while historic portraits and artifacts have been evaluated and cared for by experts.
Restoration work continues throughout the property.
Because Kelton House is a historic site, the process requires care, expertise, and time. Each decision must balance the immediate needs of the property with the responsibility to preserve its historic character and collections for the future.
Restoration at a Glance
Current Status: Restoration in Progress
Museum Tours: Temporarily Paused
Weddings & Private Events: Temporarily Paused
Educational Programming: Select opportunities may be available during restoration
Community Programs & Events: Continuing as circumstances allow
Reopening Date: To Be Determined
Last Updated: November 2026
What Happens Next
There is not yet a firm date for the full reopening of Kelton House Museum & Garden.
The restoration of a historic property is a complex process, and we want to ensure the work is completed thoughtfully and responsibly rather than setting a reopening date before the full scope and timeline are known.
As restoration progresses, we will continue evaluating opportunities to offer educational programs, community events, and other ways to engage with the history and mission of Kelton House.
Major restoration milestones and reopening information will be shared here as they become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kelton House Museum & Garden is currently closed for regular museum tours while restoration work continues.
We are not currently accepting wedding or private event reservations. We hope to welcome these celebrations back to Kelton House in the future, but it is too early to determine when event rentals will resume.
Select educational programs, community events, and other opportunities may continue during restoration. Visit our Programs & Events page for current opportunities.
A reopening date has not yet been determined. Updates will be shared as the restoration progresses.
Community support will play an important role in the next chapter of Kelton House. You can support restoration and preservation efforts through a financial contribution, volunteer involvement, attending programs, and helping share the story of Kelton House.