Huntingdon County Historical Society

Huntingdon County Historical Society
Name	Huntingdon County Historical Society
Founded	0 1936
Location	Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Focus	Pennsylvania history, Huntingdon County heritage
Website	https://www.huntingdonhistory.org/

Huntingdon County Historical Society. Established in 1936, the society is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the rich heritage of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania. It operates from a historic property in downtown Huntingdon and maintains extensive archival collections documenting the region's development from its early settlement through the Industrial Revolution and beyond. The organization serves as a vital resource for researchers, educators, and the public through its museum exhibits, educational programs, and publications.

History

The society was formally organized in 1936 by a group of local citizens concerned with the preservation of the county's historical records and artifacts. Its early efforts were supported by prominent community figures and institutions, including connections to Juniata College. Initially operating from borrowed spaces, the society's first major acquisition was the McCarthy Building in the 1950s, providing a permanent home for its growing collections. Key figures in its development included historians and philanthropists dedicated to documenting pivotal local events such as the Civil War and the expansion of the Pennsylvania Railroad. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, the society expanded its scope, undertaking significant preservation projects related to regional landmarks like the Standing Stone and sites associated with the French and Indian War.

Collections and archives

The society's holdings comprise a diverse array of materials central to Huntingdon County's story. Its archival collections include extensive manuscript materials, such as personal papers from notable residents, deeds, maps, and records from local businesses and industries like the Birmingham Iron Works. The research library houses published works, county histories, and genealogical resources. The artifact collection features significant items from the Revolutionary War era, agricultural implements, and decorative arts. Special collections focus on the Civil War with materials related to local regiments, the Underground Railroad in central Pennsylvania, and the architectural history of structures like the Huntingdon County Courthouse.

Facilities

The society's primary facility is located at 106 Fourth Street in Huntingdon, within the historic McCarthy Building. This structure, dating to the late 19th century, houses the society's administrative offices, research library, and exhibit galleries. The building underwent a major restoration in the 1990s to improve climate control and accessibility for its archival holdings. In addition to its main headquarters, the society has been involved in the stewardship and interpretation of other local historical sites, including the Swigart Antique Car Museum and properties associated with the Raystown Lake region. The research facilities are regularly used by scholars from institutions like the Pennsylvania State Archives and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.

Programs and events

A regular schedule of public programming is offered to engage the community with local history. Annual events include historical lectures featuring experts on topics such as the Battle of Gettysburg and Native American history in the Appalachian Mountains. The society conducts guided walking tours of Huntingdon's historic district, highlighting Victorian architecture and sites linked to the Pennsylvania Canal. Educational outreach programs are provided for local schools, focusing on 19th century life and industrial history. Special events often commemorate anniversaries, such as those of Juniata College or the founding of Huntingdon County.

Publications

The society produces several publications to disseminate historical research. Its flagship serial is the Huntingdon County Historical Society Journal, which publishes scholarly articles and transcriptions of primary documents. It has also published numerous books and monographs, including titles on county Civil War veterans, histories of local boroughs like Mount Union, and studies of the Raystown Branch Juniata River. These publications are distributed to members, academic libraries such as those at Juniata College, and are available for purchase by the public, contributing to the wider historical scholarship of Central Pennsylvania.

Governance and membership

The society is governed by a volunteer Board of directors elected from its membership, which includes historians, educators, and community leaders. Day-to-day operations are managed by a professional staff, including an executive director and an archivist. Financial support is derived from membership dues, private donations, grants from organizations like the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and fundraising events. The society offers various membership levels for individuals, families, and institutions, providing benefits such as subscription to publications, free admission to lectures, and access to exclusive research resources. It maintains collaborative partnerships with entities including the Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau and the Huntingdon County Library.

Category:Historical societies in Pennsylvania Category:Organizations based in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania Category:History of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania