Educational Efforts

The Lycoming County Historical Society is a not-for-profit educational organization with a museum, library and archives; its purpose is to discover, collect, preserve and interpret the pre-historical, historical and cultural heritage of north central Pennsylvania.

The Lycoming County Historical Society's mission statement clearly establishes the organization's role as primarily educational. The Society achieves its educational goals through museum exhibits, written materials, lectures, and outreach to schools.

Within the Thomas T. Taber Museum, the main objective is to engage visitors in learning experiences, to enhance their curiosity and interest in the displayed collections. Exhibits are professionally curated, so that visitors can see, sometimes touch, and always understand local history.

The Society's educational outreach goes well beyond providing context for objects displayed in the Museum. Each year, a lecture series provides opportunities for the community to learn about different aspects of our common heritage. The 2017 lecture series has focused on our communities, including Williamsport’s Millionaires’ Row, Eagles Mere, Lewis Township and others. In 2016, Lycoming County's musical heritage was explored with lectures and demonstrations and performances.

The Journal of the Lycoming County Historical Society

The Journal of the Lycoming County Historical Society is a regularly issued publication that features articles written by local educators and historians. Writings are well researched, often from the archives of the Museum, and presented with photographs or other original documentation. The library and archives provides the foundation for any Lycoming County historical research project.

The Society offers programs for young people, that are engaging and educational. History Day Camp is different every year with themes that engage and entertain. School field trips are welcomed, with available Museum tours.

Older students are welcome to enter the annual Student Historian competition. And high school or college students with an interest in history can serve internships or provide volunteer services to the Museum, along the way, gaining valuable, practical experience and public service hours.

Benjamin Franklin said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” the Lycoming County Historical Society embraces this concept through its educational program. You are welcome to join in!