Why are history and the work of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission valuable to Penn-sylvanians? The answer is because we are the steward of valuable and irreplaceable collections that tell our story and showcase our history for the world.

It is a thrill for many Pennsylvanians each year to view the original charter given to William Penn by King Charles II in 1683, the founding document of our state, the extensive collections of The State Museum of Pennsylvania, and the Trails of History™ historic sites that are preserved for the commonwealth’s shared legacy.

However, the commission’s value is more than the material or historical value of irreplaceable collections and unique historic sites. I see first hand the value of bringing history to life for school children and families in learning experiences that change their lives and bring new under-standing. I see how the expertise, consulting services and grants provided by the commission can support the efforts of communities that are documenting their own history through National Register nominations, historical markers, and history projects that foster sustainable communities and a sense of local pride.

We know that Pennsylvanians care about and value their history. At the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, we take pride in helping preserve these amazing resources for future generations.

Wayne Spilove, Chairman