Last updated: 10/26/2011
Historical Society of Montgomery County
Norristown, Pennsylvania
Address
1654 DeKalb Street
Norristown, PA 19401
phone: 610-272-0297
e-mail: contact_us@hsmcpa.org

Hours

Monday, Thursday
9 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday - Wednesday
1 PM - 9 PM

Staff

Karen M. Wolfe
phone:
e-mail:
Jeff Mcgranahan
phone:
e-mail:
Description

For centuries, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania has been making history. From the dramatic re-shaping of Washington's Army at Valley Forge to the lesser known engagement of Lafayette at Barren Hill, this region played an important role in the nation's early history.

Exhibits

The Historical Society of Montgomery County Headquarters features a changing exhibit gallery. Topical exhibits on areas of interest to Montgomery County are featured. Exhibits are usually complimented with activities and programs. Access to the exhibit gallery is available during normal operating hours and special events.

The Library

The Library holdings contain over thirty thousand titles including books, pamphlets, newspapers and archival materials. When coming to do research, please be familiar with what to expect by reading the Guide to the Library. Admission is charged to use the library and make copies. For more information read over our Library Fees. To submit a research request, please review the posted Guidelines for Research Requests on our website.

Montgomery Cemetery

The Historical Society of Montgomery County owns and maintains historic Montgomery Cemetery. The Society took over responsibility for the entire cemetery in the 1990's after years of neglect, vandalism and wear had taken their toll. We hope that visitors will enjoy the beautiful grounds, honor those who are buried here and learn about the history of Montgomery County through its notable past residents. (If you wish to learn more about those who are buried here, click on the Map link above.) The cemetery is no longer an active burial ground, but is preserved as a link to the past. For more information regarding the cemetery, please contact the Society at our Headquarters: 610-272-0297.

Rental for Events

The Historical Society of Montgomery County may be the site of your next event. The Society's meeting room can seat 50 people in a comfortable and gracious setting. For fees, scheduling and facility details, please call the Society @ 610-272-0297.

Mission

It is the Historical Society of Montgomery County's mission to preserve the county's rich heritage and help tell the stories of the many people who have walked and tended its soil.

History

Originally, part of Philadelphia County, this fertile land along the Schuylkill River became its own county in 1784. Booming industry and manufacturing, rich farm fields, advanced transportation, artistic endeavors and unique religous beliefs, contributed to the greatness of the county. However, no matter what its ideals or enterprises, it is the people of Montgomery County that remain her greatest assest. Birthplace of General Winfield S. Hancock, General John F. Hartranft and General Henry "Hap" Arnold, the county has sent tens of thousands of its sons and daughters to wars near and far. Abolitionists like Lucretia Mott, inventors like David Rittenhouse and Thaddeus Lowe and artists like Thomas Hovenden have all called Montgomery County home.

The Historical Society of Montgomery County was established in 1881 and incorporated in 1884. The Historical Society of Montgomery County is designated as a 501(c)3 charitable organization. We are registered with the Pennsylvania Department of State Bureau of Charitable Organizations. We are the designated county historical society as noted by the Commissioners of the County of Montgomery, Pennsylvania. We are supported in part by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Commissioners of the County of Montgomery via a matching General Operating Support Grant. The Historical Society is also a member of American Association of State and Local History, the Alliance of Pennsylvania County Historical Societies and the Pennsylvania Federation of Museums and Historical Organizations. A copy of the financial registration of the Society may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll-free within PA at 1-800-732-0999.

Publications

The Historical Society of Montgomery County publishes the Bulletin of the Historical Society of Montgomery County, which is an annual journal containing articles of varied topics pertaining to the history of Montgomery County. If you would like to submit an article for review to the Publications Committee, please be aware of the following guidelines: Submission Guidelines. Any inquiries or submissions should be directed to Bob Wood, Bulletin Editor and sent to the Historical Society's Headquarters.

Services
Online Gift Shop
Special Event Rental
Exhibitions
Museum Events
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