The Loveland Historical Museum uses period furnishings, photos, maps, prints, and artifacts to paints a vivid picture of Loveland's long and interesting history. The region's historic Indian tribes, the first pioneers, the arrival and growth of railroads, the Underground Railroad, and the process of Loveland's growth as a suburb and a city are all illustrated on a Time Line, in addition to permanent and rotating exhibits. The museum building was built circa 1862 as the home of Dr. John S. Law, father of Loveland's first mayor. It is Italianate - a popular architectural style in the Victorian era. The estate originally contained 97 acres. The spectacular; view of the Scenic Little Miami River may have inspired the name "Bonaventure", which means good fortune. The Greater Loveland Historical Society bought the house in 1982 and the museum was opened to the public on July 7, 1984.