The Peel Compton Foundation has long been a cornerstone of the Northwest Arkansas community, connecting people through nature, education, recreation, and historic preservation. Since its founding in 1991, the Foundation has championed the restoration and preservation of the historic Peel Museum & Botanical Garden, built in 1875 by Colonel Samuel W. Peel. The home stands as a testament to Bentonville’s rich heritage and remains central to the Foundation’s mission.

What began with the Peel Museum has blossomed into a multi-faceted organization dedicated to fostering connections across its four unique properties: the Peel Museum & Botanical Garden, Compton Gardens & Arboretum, Coler Mountain Bike Preserve, and Osage Park.

Each site offers distinctive experiences that engage and inspire the community:

Peel Museum & Botanical Garden: Step back in time with guided tours that share the story of the Peel family and 19th-century Bentonville. School field trips and educational programs immerse students in local history, and annual events such as Christmas at Peel bring joy to families.

Compton Gardens & Arboretum: Visitors can explore beautiful native plant gardens, enjoy trails that connect to downtown Bentonville, and attend public lectures and workshops on sustainability and gardening.

Coler Mountain Bike Preserve: A haven for adventure enthusiasts, this preserve boasts world-class mountain biking trails, pump tracks, and skill-building areas.

Osage Park: Featuring floating boardwalks through wetlands, pickleball courts, and an all-inclusive archery range, Osage Park offers outdoor recreation for all ages.

In 2025, the Peel Museum will mark its 150th anniversary, and the Foundation has launched a year-long celebration to honor this incredible milestone. Special events, storytelling initiatives, and preservation efforts will highlight the museum’s enduring legacy.

 

A key component of the anniversary celebration is the Peel 150th Anniversary Brick Campaign, inviting community members to leave their mark on history by purchasing engraved bricks for the museum’s garden pathways. These bricks provide a lasting tribute to loved ones or special occasions—whether it’s honoring a 2026 graduate or celebrating Mother’s Day in a meaningful way.

The Foundation’s commitment to education is evident in its robust programming for schools and families, offered free of charge. “Providing real-life, hands-on learning experiences for youth is amazing,” shared the Director of Development. “It’s a huge benefit for teachers trying to engage students in their learning.”

The Foundation also hosts summer camps at Coler Mountain Bike Preserve and Osage Park, where children can immerse themselves in nature, build adventure skills, and foster a love for the outdoors. Additional events like pickleball tournaments, 5K and 10K races, and the Arkansas State Archery Tournament further engage the community in active and meaningful ways.

The Peel Compton Foundation invites community members to participate in its events, volunteer, or become sponsors. Your involvement is crucial in supporting its mission to preserve history, protect nature, and create enriching experiences for all.

For more information on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities, please visit peelcompton.org. Don’t forget to secure your place in history by purchasing a commemorative brick to celebrate the Peel Museum’s 150th anniversary. Together, we can continue to foster a vibrant and connected community for generations to come.