The value of history and the work of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission is ultimately determined by the public—the people of Pennsylvania who care about and want to preserve history because of its meaning to them. History is relevant to people’s lives when they make connections to the past through family history and through real places and tangible artifacts. History is most often valued because of personal connections for creating community identity and as a legacy for future generations.

This annual report documents how the commission has added value to people’s lives in Pennsylvania. Archives and records provide family and genealogical information; and historic sites and museums offer educational experiences for children, teachers and families; historical markers create opportunities for community pride and celebration.

This report also documents how people in Pennsylvania are using historical resources to create value for themselves and the commonwealth. For PHMC and our many partners at the federal, state and local level, preserving history is not only a commitment to the past, but also an investment in the future.

Barbara Franco, Executive Director

PHMC Executive Director Barbara Franco accepts a Preserve America grant from John Nau, Chairman of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (center). Lenwood Sloan, Director of Cultural and Heritage Tourism for the Department of Community and Economic Development (left) and some of the Pennsylvania Past Players joined the executive director in Gettysburg for the presentation.