The Butler Foundation was established in 1979 by George P. Butler. Based in Maryland, the Foundation exists to fund research in archaeology and history, with a particular interest in religion. It has links with another organisation called The Legacy, although it is believed that they do not always see eye-to-eye. Butler's son Philip, who now has executive responsibility for the Butler Foundation although his father still retains the Chairmanship, formerly worked for The Legacy in their New York office.

The Foundation prefers to sponsor work conducted by individuals working for universities rather than employing their own staff; and it has limited premises of its own. Work undertaken with Foundation funding is published in an Annual Report and appears on the Foundation's website.

Report by Philippa Haines