Landis Valley Museum
The historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) provide tangible experiences with the past that cannot be duplicated in classrooms. With site visitation of 1,106,437, students, teachers and parents value the unique educational experiences that hands-on history offers young people. The sites document Pennsylvania’s tradition of innovation through access to the hard-working, tenacious, courageous and energetic people of Pennsylvania whose stories make up our shared heritage. As one of the leading state historic site programs in the United States, PHMC sites have often served as models for other states. The innovative partnerships with associate groups and other non-profits have made it possible to continue a high level of public programming despite limited funds. The Trails of History™ promotions have been innovative in their approach to reach new audiences working in partnership with the State Tourism Office as well as local visitor bureaus and regional marketing groups. A complete listing of sites is located on the "Trails of History" section of the PHMC Web site.
innovation
Drake Well museum
At both Drake Well Museum and Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, architects have designed renovations to each site that include many sustainable features. These innovative design features will have a direct impact on reducing energy consumption and operating costs.
The Friends of Drake Well launched the Mobile Energy Education Training Unity (MEET-U) in partnership with the oil and gas industry to educate people about the roles of fossil fuels in daily life and in developing alternative energy sources.
Pennsbury Manor partnered with LaJoya Texas Intermediate School District in a Teaching American History Grant focusing on teaching history to children who are recent immigrants to the United States or involved in special education programs. The site also began developing partnerships with the Lenape Indian community, both regionally and nationally, in coordination with Heritage Philadelphia Program.
impact
Saw Mill at Daniel Boone Homestead
The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania initiated a new program, "Conrail Days," that was held May 29–31. It attracted 1,500 visitors and featured special displays and programs.
The Ephrata Cloister Chorus celebrated their 50th anniversary with a concert on May 31 with 160 people in attendance.
Children, ages 7 to 12 years old, participated in "2009 Anthracite Heritage Camp: Fueling our Nation" at the Pennsylvania Anthracite Heritage Museum on July 14–17. They learned about the different forms of energy as well as animal and human power and transportation through stories, crafts, food, music and hands-on programs.
With support from an Institute of Museum and Library Services Conservation Project Support Grant, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania completed work to convert 1,580 glass-plate negatives documenting the Baldwin Locomotive Works to more stable and digital formats.
