Upcoming
Events |
Filming occurred March 4-13, 2024.
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Fall 2024 Programs:
The Fries Rebellion Film Screenings You can also watch the film at our museum on Sundays, 1-4pm. Friday, Sept. 27, 6:30 & 8 pm The Fries Rebellion film and Behind the Scenes video Lower Macungie Twp. Community Center 3400 Brookside Rd., Macungie, PA Admission $10; free for teachers and LMT historical society members Please park along the newest (east) side of the Community Center for easiest access. Sunday, October 6, 2-4 pm Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville Join us for a log house tour. [museum is closed that day.] Sunday, Dec. 8, 3-5 pm Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville Cookies, tours, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music. [museum is closed that day] |
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Pick up your copy of our new book:
Tour Around the Township - Book II:
Central Lower Macungie Township.
The book is free to members!
Beginning January 16, 2022
(Sundays 1-4 pm) in museum.
softbound, 135 color pages; $25.00
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Visit our Museum!
The Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of Lower Macungie Township History Camp Olympic Barn, lower level 3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA Open Sundays, 1-4 pm Except holidays and during special events. The museum will be closed on Oct. 6. Please visit us at the Wescosville Log House that day instead. 
The Bartholomew Center is located in the upper barn at Camp Olympic. When you enter the park, go across the creek and straight ahead. The barn is on your left. See the drawing on the left.
During events, parking is limited at the lower level, so please park in the upper lot and walk along the driveway to the lower entrance. 
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LMTHS Board meetings are typically held at 7pm on the 4th Wednesday of the month at the Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of Lower Macungie Township History at the Camp Olympic barn, lower level.
Past Programs (Sorry you missed them!)
Spring 2024 Programs
February 4, 2024, 5-8 pm
Fries Rebellion movie fundraising event at Folino Estate Winery.
340 Old Route 22, Kutztown, PA 19530
Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening of fine wine, fabulous music, delectable cuisine, exciting prizes, and delightful company, all guided by the charismatic host, Emmy Award-winning TV Personality, Carson Kressley!
[museum will be closed that day]
May 5, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Passport to History Weekend - July 20-21
Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Sunday, Aug. 25, 4-8:30 pm
Fries Rebellion film Premiere and Gala
Wind Creek Bethlehem
Visit: www.FriesMovie.com for details and tickets [museum is closed that day.]
Fall 2023 Programs:
Sunday, October 8, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour. [museum is closed that day.]
Tuesday, October 10, 5:30-7:30 pm
Fries Rebellion beer fundraiser at Rising River Brewing, 1955 Willow Lane, Macungie
Join us for an evening of fundraising fun at Rising River Brewing in East Texas on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 5:30-7:30pm. Owner Ron Beitler will be presenting his new “Fries Rebellion” beer, available by the glass or in limited-edition cans that will undoubtedly become collectors items. He also plans to donate $2 for every pint sold towards our film project, and another LMTHS member plans to match those donations!
Sunday, Dec. 10, 3-5 pm
SORRY! CANCELLED due to inclement weather!
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Cookies, tours, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
[museum is closed that day]
Spring 2023 Programs:
Sunday, May 7, 2-4 pm
Join Wildlands Conservancy and Merrill Brenner for a history and nature hike at Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve (BPMMP). Merrill has researched this area as a member of several local historical societies and a longtime supporter of Wildlands Conservancy. Beginning at the Reimert Bird Sanctuary, we'll begin with a brief history of the area. Then we'll hike approximately 1.5 miles, exploring highlights like "Sheep Rock" along the way. Trail is considered difficult due to hills and uneven surface. Hiking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended.
There are no restrooms at this preserve. Meeting site TBA due to parking limitations.
Hike is limited to 30 people so registration is required.
https://www.wildlandspa.org/events/month/2023-05/
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, May 21, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Saturday, June 3, 2-4 pm
Haines Mill Tour
3600 Dorney Park Rd., Allentown, PA 18104
Join us for a tour of Haines Mill, a great example of the Lehigh Valley’s agricultural heritage. The original grist mill was built around 1760, and used water power to grind crop grains into flour. After a fire gutted the interior of the building, it was rebuilt in 1908, and a three-story brick addition was built in 1930. It remained in full operation until 1957. Lehigh County purchased the mill in 1972 for preservation, and opened it as a museum two years later. In 1981, Haines Mill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The tour is limited, so registration is required. Please contact us by May 20 to reserve a spot at: [email protected]
Passport to History Weekend - July 22-23
Sat. 12-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Teaser Premiere (with cast & crew meet and greet and/or Q&A)
Monday, August 7, 6-9 pm
McCoole’s at the Red Lion Inn, Quakertown, PA
Teaser Happy Hours (with cast & crew flyer signing)
Tuesday, August 8, 6-9 pm
Rising River Brewing, Macungie, PA
Teaser Campaign Rally (with cast & crew postcard drive)
Wednesday, August 9, 6-9 pm
Two Rivers Brewing Company, Easton, PA
Fall 2022 Programs:
Sunday, Dec. 11, 4-7 pm
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, October 23, 2-4 pm
Join Wildlands Conservancy and Merrill Brenner for a history and nature hike at Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve (BPMMP). Merrill has researched this area as a member of several local historical societies and a longtime supporter of Wildlands Conservancy. Meet at the BPMM Preserve where we'll begin with a brief history of the area. Then we'll hike approximately 1.5 miles, exploring highlights like "Sheep Rock" and "The Throne" along the way. Trail is considered difficult due to hills and uneven surface. Hiking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended.
There are no restrooms at this preserve. Meet at: 6691 Sweetwood Dr., Macungie, PA 18062.
Hike is limited to 30 people so registration is required.
https://www.wildlandspa.org/event/history-nature-hike-brenner-penfield-macungie-mountain-preserve/
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, October 9, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour. [museum is closed that day.]
Spring 2022 Programs:
Saturday, April 23, 1-2:30PM
Learn about Lenape Heritage at Jasper Park
Jasper Park Pavilion, 4960 Vera Cruz Road North, Emmaus, PA 18049
Join us for a lecture by local historian John Fegley about the indigenous residents of this region – the Lenape Indians. Following the lecture, we’ll walk along wooded trails that lead to the pits where highly prized jasper was mined for arrowheads. These are some of the oldest jasper mines in North America and are believed to have been first opened by Paleolithic people as early as 12,000 years ago.
The free event is co-sponsored by the Upper Milford and Lower Macungie Township Historical Societies.
Please note: the unpaved, wooded trail is easily accessed, but appropriate footwear is recommended.
Sunday, May 15, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Passport to History Weekend - July 23-24
Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Fall 2021 Programs:
Sunday, October 10, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour, grind some corn, and see a hit-and-miss engine in action!
November: We are sorry to say that our annual Veterans Day program has been discontinued after a very sucessful 10-year run, but please enjoy the veterans' tributes found on our Veterans' Project page.
Sat. & Sun.m Dec. 4-5:
Co-hosting a Christmas Festival at Alburtis-Lockridge Historical Society in Alburtis.
Spring 2021 Programs:
Sunday, May 23, 2021, 1-3 pm
Spring Planting and Flea Market
Fall 2020 Programs:
Sunday, October 4, 2-4 pm - CANCELLED!
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour.
Sunday, Oct. 18, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED!
Uhma Ruth Py at the Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Uhma Ruth Py, an elder in the Lenape Wolf clan from Reinholds, will present an afternoon of storytelling and teaching on the Native American culture.
Sunday, November 15, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED!
Veterans Day Program at the Wescosville Rec. Center, Wescosville Park
Twelfth Veterans Day program honoring our veterans past and present. This year Navy Captain Dr. Charles Peters will be our featured speaker.
Sunday, Dec. 9, 4-7 pm - CANCELLED!
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
Spring 2020 Programs:
Sunday, January 19, 1-2 pm
Dendrodating the lintel from the summer kitchen of the Kemmerer House - Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Michael Worthington and Greg Huber
Sunday, April 26, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED! [RESCHEDULED to 10/18/20, 2-3:30 pm]
Uhma Ruth Py at the Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Uhma Ruth Py, an elder in the Lenape Wolf clan from Reinholds, will present an afternoon of storytelling and teaching on the Native American culture.
Sunday, May 17, 2-4 pm - CANCELLED!
Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Spin some yarn with Leah Crouthamel. Join us for strawberries and ice cream, too.
Saturday, June 6, 8:15 am - 4 pm - CANCELLED!
Bus Trip to the Museum of the American Revolution and City Tavern in Philadelphia
Enjoy a journey through the remarkable story of America’s founding and gain a deeper understanding of the people, events, and ideals that gave birth to the nation. Located just steps from Independence Hall in the heart of Historic Philadelphia, the Museum brings the stories of our nation’s founding to life in exciting and unique ways. See original artifacts, immersive galleries, dynamic theaters, and recreated historical environments including the crown jewel of the Museum of the American Revolution’s collection -- one of the most iconic surviving artifacts of the Revolution: General Washington’s War Tent. This tent served as Washington’s office and sleeping quarters throughout much of the Revolutionary War. Museum visit followed by lunch at City Tavern, a reconstructed Colonial tavern where servers in period dress deliver old-fashioned American fare.
Meet at 8:15am at EMMAUS Weis Market parking lot, 1220 Chestnut Street, Emmaus - Bus departs promptly at 8:30am. Co-sponsored by the Emmaus Historical Society. Members and non-members welcome!
Tickets: $85.00 per person Includes: bus transportation, lunch, museum and gratuities; Youth (6 - 12) - $70.00.
Call Nancy Matika at 610-967-5715 to order tickets. Order deadline: April 22, 2020
Fall 2019 Programs
Sun. 10/6, 2-4pm - Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville. Join us for a log house tour and refreshments and learn about making sauerkraut, spinning wool with Leah Crouthamel, and early "hit and miss" engines during live demonstrations. The museum will be closed that day.
Sun. 10/20, 2-3:30pm - The Mills of Lower Macungie - Jeff Donat will speak about the history of gristmills and the changes in technology from early hand tools to turbine and roller mills. He will also discuss how gristmills evolved into becoming "Americana" attractions. Open to the public.
Sun. 11/10, 2-3:30pm - Lower Macungie Community Center. Eleventh Veterans Day program honoring our veterans past and present. This year Captain Richard "Dick" Buss, U.S. Navy (Ret.) will speak about WWI. All are invited. The museum will be closed that day.
Sun. 12/8, 4-7pm - Christmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville. Join us for tours by candlelight at the log house, warm drinks and cookies, harp music and chat. The museum will be closed that day.
Spring 2019 Programs
Sunday, April 7, 2-3 pm Applejack in Allemaengel - Jon Bond
Jon Bond, founder of the Albany Township Historical Society based in Kempton, Pa., will be sharing stories about Applejack in Allemaengel. He will be joined by Chad Butters, who will be providing samples from Eight Oaks Distillery
Jon is an artist who draws inspiration from the rustic scenery of northern Berks County and his travels throughout Bucks and Chester Counties. His paintings reflect the awesome sunsets and atmospherics of the Kittatinny Ridge and iconic farmsteads of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Jon works primarily in oils, most often on wood panels, and occasionally on scraps of cardboard when preparing studies or sketches. He also works in watercolors and egg tempera. Jon has exhibited in countless juried shows and has been awarded numerous honors for his work. His art adorns homes, businesses and churches throughout eastern Pennsylvania and the United States.
2019 marks the 45th year of Jon’s profession as a painter and graphic artist. Jon estimates that he’s painted nearly 2,000 original paintings and designed more than 30,000 graphics for signs, murals, garments, vehicles, and antique implements.
Visitors are welcome to visit Jon’s art studio and gallery in Kempton, Berks County. The converted tobacco barn houses more than 100 originals at any given time and offers scenic views toward The Pinnacle and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.
Sunday, April 28, 2-3pm
Industrial History of the D&L Corridor - Martha Capwell Fox and Ann Bartholomew
Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History, Camp Olympic Barn, Emmaus
Martha Capwell Fox has been the Archives and Museum Coordinator for the National Canal Museum/Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor since 2012. She was the assistant to the NCM Collections Manager from 2003 to 2005, and guest curator of the NCM exhibit “Behind the Seams: The Silk Industry in Eastern Pennsylvania.” Martha has presented three papers at Canal History and Technology Symposia: on the silk industry in the D&L Corridor, a biographical sketch of nineteenth-century entrepreneur José de Navarro, and an industrial history of Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, the site of the first commercially successful anthracite iron furnace. She was a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Speaker from 2004 to 2006. Also a professional writer and editor, Martha worked in magazine publishing at National Geographic and Rodale, Inc., and has published four books on local historical topics and three young adult histories on swimming, auto racing, and the Vatican. She is a graduate of American University with a dual degree in international relations and U.S. history.
Sunday, May 19, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Join us for strawberries and ice cream, too.
Sunday, June 2, 2-4 pm
Heritage Courtyard Dedication
Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History
Join us for the dedication of our new memorial brick patio, located just behind the barnyard wall at the museum. Also, visit our museum and then enjoy a wine and cheese reception with relaxing harp music by Erika Gustavson in the upstairs social hall of the Camp Olympic barn.
Fall 2018 Programs
Sunday, Sept. 16, 2-3 pm - A tribute to Dorothy Knauss
Sarajane Williams offers favorite stories, memories and music of Macungie native, harpist Dorothy Knauss. Revered as "Lehigh Valley's First Lady of the Harp," legendary Ms. Knauss performed with the Allentown Band for over 65 years. A student of Ms. Knauss, Sarajane will play Dorothy's gold concert harp during the presentation at the Bartholomew Center for the Preservation.
Saturday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. - mid-afternoon - CANCELLED! - Hike and tour Catasauqua and Fogelsville RR & Rittenhouse Gap
Construction of the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad commenced in the mid-1850s to bring limonite iron ore from western Lehigh County to the iron furnaces along the Lehigh River. It was extended in the mid-1860s to the magnetic
ore mines at Rittenhouse Gap. This hike and tour includes Rittenhouse Gap and parts of the right of way along the
Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad south of Alburtis.
Sunday, Nov. 4, 2-3 pm - The Lichtenwalner Family
Lee Lichtenwalner shares memorabilia and stories about the Lichtenwalner family and the important role that they played in the cultural and agricultural history of the township at the Bartholomew Center.
Nov. 11, 2-3:30 pm - Veterans Program
Speaker: Tom Applebach. LMT Community Center. Co-sponsored by the Macungie Historical Society and VFW Post 9264, Macungie.
Sunday, Dec. 9, 4-7 pm - Xmas at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music. Open to all.
Spring 2018 Programs
Saturday, March 17, 2-4 pm - History of Lock Ridge Furnace
Alburtis Lock Ridge Historical Society,
Lock Ridge Memorial Presbyterian Church, Alburtis,
Celebration of the 150th anniversary of blowing in the first furnace at Lock Ridge, No. 7 Furnace of the Thomas Iron Company, on March 18, 1868.
Sunday, March 25, 2–3:30 p.m. - Jeff Donat postcard presentation
Have you ever found a box of old postcards in an attic or a closet and wondered about the significance, collectability or value? Please join us at the Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History to find out! Lehigh Valley Postcard Club program director Jeff Donat will provide a Powerpoint talk to enlighten us about the history and collectability of postcards.
Tuesday, May 1, 4–8 p.m. - Lower Macungie’s 7th annual Community Day at the LMT Community Center
Be sure to visit our table when you come.
Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m. - mid-afternoon [rescheduled due to weather]
Hike and tour Catasauqua and Fogelsville RR & Rittenhouse Gap
Construction of the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad commenced in the mid-1850s to bring limonite iron ore from western Lehigh County to the iron furnaces along the Lehigh River. It was extended in the mid-1860s to the magnetic ore mines at Rittenhouse Gap. This hike and tour includes Rittenhouse Gap and parts of the right of way along the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad south of Alburtis. Reservations can be made by contacting Kevin Shoemaker at 484.366.9987 or email at [email protected].
Sunday, May 20, 2–4 p.m. - Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville.
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal plants. Also, retired teacher and antique dealer Barb Kemp will demonstrate how to process and spin wool and alpaca fibers. She has been fascinated by spinning wheels ever since she was a child and says, "The mesmerizing wheel transports you to another world." Barb and her family have participated in the Goshenhoppen Folk festival, where she has demonstrated her craft for many years. Please join us and take a spin.
Fall 2017 Programs
Sept. 25, 7 pm: Greg Huber - "Pennsylvania Barns"
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Oct. 17, 7 pm: Doug Peters - "Transportation History"
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Nov. 12, 2-3:30 pm: Veterans Program - Dick Buss - "The Four Chaplains" - LMT Community Center
Nov. 19,12-4 pm:
LMTHS Museum Grand Opening
Camp Olympic Barn, 3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus
Sunday, Dec.10, 4-7 pm: Xmas at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music. Open to all.
Spring 2017 Programs
Wednesday, April 19, 7pm
Cradle of the American Industrial Revolution: where Geography and Geology met Human Genius
Historian Martha Capwell Fox will present a slide show about the historical significance of the Lehigh Valley’s early industries. Camp Olympic Barn, Upper Level, 3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus
Martha Capwell Fox has been the Archives and Museum Coordinator for the National Canal Museum/Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor since 2012. She was the assistant to the NCM Collections Manager from 2003 to 2005, and guest curator of the NCM exhibit “Behind the Seams: The Silk Industry in Eastern Pennsylvania.” Martha has presented three papers at Canal History and Technology Symposia: on the silk industry in the D&L Corridor, a biographical sketch of nineteenth-century entrepreneur José de Navarro, and an industrial history of Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, the site of the first commercially successful anthracite iron furnace. She was a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Speaker from 2004 to 2006. Also a professional writer and editor, Martha worked in magazine publishing at National Geographic and Rodale, Inc., and has published four books on local historical topics and three young adult histories on swimming, auto racing, and the Vatican. She is a graduate of American University with a dual degree in international relations and U.S. history.
Sunday, May 21, 2pm Sigal Museum Tour
342 Northampton St, Easton, PA
Group tour of the Sigal Museum in historic downtown Easton. The museum , includes the Northampton County Historical Society. Please let us know if you plan to attend, to ensure your discount admission of $5.00. Easton is famous for its restaurants, so you may want to include lunch on this excursion.
Sunday, June 11, 2-4pm Spring Planting and Signboard Tour
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Your children may assist in the garden, and adults will enjoy a walk with local historians to read and discuss signboards at Hamilton Crossings. Free.
Fall 2016 Programs
Thursday, Sept. 29, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The French and Indian War
by Douglas Pitchell and the New Jersey Frontier Guard "1756"
Sunday, October 9, 1-4 pm Harvest Festival at the Log House
Members' Potluck
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Thursday, October 27, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The Allentown & Reading Traction Company
Over 80 years have passed since the last trolley car of the Allentown & Reading Traction Company (A&R) ran on the streets of Allentown The company served Allentown, Dorney Park, Wescosville, East Texas, Trexlertown, Breingsville, Maxatawny, Monterey, Kutztown, Lyons, Fleetwood, Blandon, Temple, and Reading for over 30 years until final abandonment in 1936. The A&R, which owned Dorney Park until the mid-1920s, had the unusual distinction of having two different track gauges: standard from Allentown to Kutztown and wide gauge from Kutztown to Reading.
Join us as Doug Peters presents a slide program showing a trip over the line from Allentown to Reading and the bus service that replaced it.
Sunday, November 13, 2-3:30pm Veterans Day Program
LMT Community Center
Sunday, Dec. 11, 4-7pm Christmas Open House at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Spring 2016 Programs - Wednesday, March 30, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
Rev. Abraham Blumer, a life well-lived. by Edward Quinter
Our first spring program will trace the life of Rev. Abraham Blumer, from his birth and family in Switzerland, until his death and beyond. Rev. Blumer, a Reformed clergyman who was pastor of Allentown's Zion's Reformed Church in 1777, was an influential and respected local figure who remains largely unknown today. But this was not the case before the 20th century, since the Blumer name and family were involved in many local enterprises of note. Today, he is most remembered for his role in support of the American Revolution and the Liberty Bell.
Spring 2024 Programs
February 4, 2024, 5-8 pm
Fries Rebellion movie fundraising event at Folino Estate Winery.
340 Old Route 22, Kutztown, PA 19530
Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening of fine wine, fabulous music, delectable cuisine, exciting prizes, and delightful company, all guided by the charismatic host, Emmy Award-winning TV Personality, Carson Kressley!
[museum will be closed that day]
May 5, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Passport to History Weekend - July 20-21
Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Sunday, Aug. 25, 4-8:30 pm
Fries Rebellion film Premiere and Gala
Wind Creek Bethlehem
Visit: www.FriesMovie.com for details and tickets [museum is closed that day.]
Fall 2023 Programs:
Sunday, October 8, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour. [museum is closed that day.]
Tuesday, October 10, 5:30-7:30 pm
Fries Rebellion beer fundraiser at Rising River Brewing, 1955 Willow Lane, Macungie
Join us for an evening of fundraising fun at Rising River Brewing in East Texas on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 5:30-7:30pm. Owner Ron Beitler will be presenting his new “Fries Rebellion” beer, available by the glass or in limited-edition cans that will undoubtedly become collectors items. He also plans to donate $2 for every pint sold towards our film project, and another LMTHS member plans to match those donations!
Sunday, Dec. 10, 3-5 pm
SORRY! CANCELLED due to inclement weather!
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Cookies, tours, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
[museum is closed that day]
Spring 2023 Programs:
Sunday, May 7, 2-4 pm
Join Wildlands Conservancy and Merrill Brenner for a history and nature hike at Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve (BPMMP). Merrill has researched this area as a member of several local historical societies and a longtime supporter of Wildlands Conservancy. Beginning at the Reimert Bird Sanctuary, we'll begin with a brief history of the area. Then we'll hike approximately 1.5 miles, exploring highlights like "Sheep Rock" along the way. Trail is considered difficult due to hills and uneven surface. Hiking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended.
There are no restrooms at this preserve. Meeting site TBA due to parking limitations.
Hike is limited to 30 people so registration is required.
https://www.wildlandspa.org/events/month/2023-05/
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, May 21, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Saturday, June 3, 2-4 pm
Haines Mill Tour
3600 Dorney Park Rd., Allentown, PA 18104
Join us for a tour of Haines Mill, a great example of the Lehigh Valley’s agricultural heritage. The original grist mill was built around 1760, and used water power to grind crop grains into flour. After a fire gutted the interior of the building, it was rebuilt in 1908, and a three-story brick addition was built in 1930. It remained in full operation until 1957. Lehigh County purchased the mill in 1972 for preservation, and opened it as a museum two years later. In 1981, Haines Mill was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The tour is limited, so registration is required. Please contact us by May 20 to reserve a spot at: [email protected]
Passport to History Weekend - July 22-23
Sat. 12-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Teaser Premiere (with cast & crew meet and greet and/or Q&A)
Monday, August 7, 6-9 pm
McCoole’s at the Red Lion Inn, Quakertown, PA
Teaser Happy Hours (with cast & crew flyer signing)
Tuesday, August 8, 6-9 pm
Rising River Brewing, Macungie, PA
Teaser Campaign Rally (with cast & crew postcard drive)
Wednesday, August 9, 6-9 pm
Two Rivers Brewing Company, Easton, PA
Fall 2022 Programs:
Sunday, Dec. 11, 4-7 pm
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, October 23, 2-4 pm
Join Wildlands Conservancy and Merrill Brenner for a history and nature hike at Brenner-Penfield Macungie Mountain Preserve (BPMMP). Merrill has researched this area as a member of several local historical societies and a longtime supporter of Wildlands Conservancy. Meet at the BPMM Preserve where we'll begin with a brief history of the area. Then we'll hike approximately 1.5 miles, exploring highlights like "Sheep Rock" and "The Throne" along the way. Trail is considered difficult due to hills and uneven surface. Hiking poles and sturdy footwear are recommended.
There are no restrooms at this preserve. Meet at: 6691 Sweetwood Dr., Macungie, PA 18062.
Hike is limited to 30 people so registration is required.
https://www.wildlandspa.org/event/history-nature-hike-brenner-penfield-macungie-mountain-preserve/
[museum is closed that day.]
Sunday, October 9, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour. [museum is closed that day.]
Spring 2022 Programs:
Saturday, April 23, 1-2:30PM
Learn about Lenape Heritage at Jasper Park
Jasper Park Pavilion, 4960 Vera Cruz Road North, Emmaus, PA 18049
Join us for a lecture by local historian John Fegley about the indigenous residents of this region – the Lenape Indians. Following the lecture, we’ll walk along wooded trails that lead to the pits where highly prized jasper was mined for arrowheads. These are some of the oldest jasper mines in North America and are believed to have been first opened by Paleolithic people as early as 12,000 years ago.
The free event is co-sponsored by the Upper Milford and Lower Macungie Township Historical Societies.
Please note: the unpaved, wooded trail is easily accessed, but appropriate footwear is recommended.
Sunday, May 15, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants.
Passport to History Weekend - July 23-24
Sat. 10-4, Sun. 12-4 pm
at the Bartholomew Center museum, Camp Olympic barn – lower level,
3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus, PA
Learn about Lower Macungie Township history and Pennsylvania German culture while touring our museum. Plus, find some treasures at the flea market / inventory reduction sale in the museum during this special event! Free admittance.
Fall 2021 Programs:
Sunday, October 10, 2-4 pm
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour, grind some corn, and see a hit-and-miss engine in action!
November: We are sorry to say that our annual Veterans Day program has been discontinued after a very sucessful 10-year run, but please enjoy the veterans' tributes found on our Veterans' Project page.
Sat. & Sun.m Dec. 4-5:
Co-hosting a Christmas Festival at Alburtis-Lockridge Historical Society in Alburtis.
Spring 2021 Programs:
Sunday, May 23, 2021, 1-3 pm
Spring Planting and Flea Market
Fall 2020 Programs:
Sunday, October 4, 2-4 pm - CANCELLED!
Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Join us for a log house tour.
Sunday, Oct. 18, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED!
Uhma Ruth Py at the Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Uhma Ruth Py, an elder in the Lenape Wolf clan from Reinholds, will present an afternoon of storytelling and teaching on the Native American culture.
Sunday, November 15, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED!
Veterans Day Program at the Wescosville Rec. Center, Wescosville Park
Twelfth Veterans Day program honoring our veterans past and present. This year Navy Captain Dr. Charles Peters will be our featured speaker.
Sunday, Dec. 9, 4-7 pm - CANCELLED!
Xmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music.
Spring 2020 Programs:
Sunday, January 19, 1-2 pm
Dendrodating the lintel from the summer kitchen of the Kemmerer House - Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Michael Worthington and Greg Huber
Sunday, April 26, 2-3:30 pm - CANCELLED! [RESCHEDULED to 10/18/20, 2-3:30 pm]
Uhma Ruth Py at the Bartholomew Center at Camp Olympic
Uhma Ruth Py, an elder in the Lenape Wolf clan from Reinholds, will present an afternoon of storytelling and teaching on the Native American culture.
Sunday, May 17, 2-4 pm - CANCELLED!
Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Spin some yarn with Leah Crouthamel. Join us for strawberries and ice cream, too.
Saturday, June 6, 8:15 am - 4 pm - CANCELLED!
Bus Trip to the Museum of the American Revolution and City Tavern in Philadelphia
Enjoy a journey through the remarkable story of America’s founding and gain a deeper understanding of the people, events, and ideals that gave birth to the nation. Located just steps from Independence Hall in the heart of Historic Philadelphia, the Museum brings the stories of our nation’s founding to life in exciting and unique ways. See original artifacts, immersive galleries, dynamic theaters, and recreated historical environments including the crown jewel of the Museum of the American Revolution’s collection -- one of the most iconic surviving artifacts of the Revolution: General Washington’s War Tent. This tent served as Washington’s office and sleeping quarters throughout much of the Revolutionary War. Museum visit followed by lunch at City Tavern, a reconstructed Colonial tavern where servers in period dress deliver old-fashioned American fare.
Meet at 8:15am at EMMAUS Weis Market parking lot, 1220 Chestnut Street, Emmaus - Bus departs promptly at 8:30am. Co-sponsored by the Emmaus Historical Society. Members and non-members welcome!
Tickets: $85.00 per person Includes: bus transportation, lunch, museum and gratuities; Youth (6 - 12) - $70.00.
Call Nancy Matika at 610-967-5715 to order tickets. Order deadline: April 22, 2020
Fall 2019 Programs
Sun. 10/6, 2-4pm - Harvest Festival at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville. Join us for a log house tour and refreshments and learn about making sauerkraut, spinning wool with Leah Crouthamel, and early "hit and miss" engines during live demonstrations. The museum will be closed that day.
Sun. 10/20, 2-3:30pm - The Mills of Lower Macungie - Jeff Donat will speak about the history of gristmills and the changes in technology from early hand tools to turbine and roller mills. He will also discuss how gristmills evolved into becoming "Americana" attractions. Open to the public.
Sun. 11/10, 2-3:30pm - Lower Macungie Community Center. Eleventh Veterans Day program honoring our veterans past and present. This year Captain Richard "Dick" Buss, U.S. Navy (Ret.) will speak about WWI. All are invited. The museum will be closed that day.
Sun. 12/8, 4-7pm - Christmas at the Bortz Log House, Wescosville. Join us for tours by candlelight at the log house, warm drinks and cookies, harp music and chat. The museum will be closed that day.
Spring 2019 Programs
Sunday, April 7, 2-3 pm Applejack in Allemaengel - Jon Bond
Jon Bond, founder of the Albany Township Historical Society based in Kempton, Pa., will be sharing stories about Applejack in Allemaengel. He will be joined by Chad Butters, who will be providing samples from Eight Oaks Distillery
Jon is an artist who draws inspiration from the rustic scenery of northern Berks County and his travels throughout Bucks and Chester Counties. His paintings reflect the awesome sunsets and atmospherics of the Kittatinny Ridge and iconic farmsteads of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Jon works primarily in oils, most often on wood panels, and occasionally on scraps of cardboard when preparing studies or sketches. He also works in watercolors and egg tempera. Jon has exhibited in countless juried shows and has been awarded numerous honors for his work. His art adorns homes, businesses and churches throughout eastern Pennsylvania and the United States.
2019 marks the 45th year of Jon’s profession as a painter and graphic artist. Jon estimates that he’s painted nearly 2,000 original paintings and designed more than 30,000 graphics for signs, murals, garments, vehicles, and antique implements.
Visitors are welcome to visit Jon’s art studio and gallery in Kempton, Berks County. The converted tobacco barn houses more than 100 originals at any given time and offers scenic views toward The Pinnacle and Hawk Mountain Sanctuary.
Sunday, April 28, 2-3pm
Industrial History of the D&L Corridor - Martha Capwell Fox and Ann Bartholomew
Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History, Camp Olympic Barn, Emmaus
Martha Capwell Fox has been the Archives and Museum Coordinator for the National Canal Museum/Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor since 2012. She was the assistant to the NCM Collections Manager from 2003 to 2005, and guest curator of the NCM exhibit “Behind the Seams: The Silk Industry in Eastern Pennsylvania.” Martha has presented three papers at Canal History and Technology Symposia: on the silk industry in the D&L Corridor, a biographical sketch of nineteenth-century entrepreneur José de Navarro, and an industrial history of Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, the site of the first commercially successful anthracite iron furnace. She was a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Speaker from 2004 to 2006. Also a professional writer and editor, Martha worked in magazine publishing at National Geographic and Rodale, Inc., and has published four books on local historical topics and three young adult histories on swimming, auto racing, and the Vatican. She is a graduate of American University with a dual degree in international relations and U.S. history.
Sunday, May 19, 2-4 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Join us for strawberries and ice cream, too.
Sunday, June 2, 2-4 pm
Heritage Courtyard Dedication
Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History
Join us for the dedication of our new memorial brick patio, located just behind the barnyard wall at the museum. Also, visit our museum and then enjoy a wine and cheese reception with relaxing harp music by Erika Gustavson in the upstairs social hall of the Camp Olympic barn.
Fall 2018 Programs
Sunday, Sept. 16, 2-3 pm - A tribute to Dorothy Knauss
Sarajane Williams offers favorite stories, memories and music of Macungie native, harpist Dorothy Knauss. Revered as "Lehigh Valley's First Lady of the Harp," legendary Ms. Knauss performed with the Allentown Band for over 65 years. A student of Ms. Knauss, Sarajane will play Dorothy's gold concert harp during the presentation at the Bartholomew Center for the Preservation.
Saturday, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. - mid-afternoon - CANCELLED! - Hike and tour Catasauqua and Fogelsville RR & Rittenhouse Gap
Construction of the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad commenced in the mid-1850s to bring limonite iron ore from western Lehigh County to the iron furnaces along the Lehigh River. It was extended in the mid-1860s to the magnetic
ore mines at Rittenhouse Gap. This hike and tour includes Rittenhouse Gap and parts of the right of way along the
Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad south of Alburtis.
Sunday, Nov. 4, 2-3 pm - The Lichtenwalner Family
Lee Lichtenwalner shares memorabilia and stories about the Lichtenwalner family and the important role that they played in the cultural and agricultural history of the township at the Bartholomew Center.
Nov. 11, 2-3:30 pm - Veterans Program
Speaker: Tom Applebach. LMT Community Center. Co-sponsored by the Macungie Historical Society and VFW Post 9264, Macungie.
Sunday, Dec. 9, 4-7 pm - Xmas at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville [museum is closed that day.]
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music. Open to all.
Spring 2018 Programs
Saturday, March 17, 2-4 pm - History of Lock Ridge Furnace
Alburtis Lock Ridge Historical Society,
Lock Ridge Memorial Presbyterian Church, Alburtis,
Celebration of the 150th anniversary of blowing in the first furnace at Lock Ridge, No. 7 Furnace of the Thomas Iron Company, on March 18, 1868.
Sunday, March 25, 2–3:30 p.m. - Jeff Donat postcard presentation
Have you ever found a box of old postcards in an attic or a closet and wondered about the significance, collectability or value? Please join us at the Bartholomew Center for the Preservation of LMT History to find out! Lehigh Valley Postcard Club program director Jeff Donat will provide a Powerpoint talk to enlighten us about the history and collectability of postcards.
Tuesday, May 1, 4–8 p.m. - Lower Macungie’s 7th annual Community Day at the LMT Community Center
Be sure to visit our table when you come.
Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m. - mid-afternoon [rescheduled due to weather]
Hike and tour Catasauqua and Fogelsville RR & Rittenhouse Gap
Construction of the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad commenced in the mid-1850s to bring limonite iron ore from western Lehigh County to the iron furnaces along the Lehigh River. It was extended in the mid-1860s to the magnetic ore mines at Rittenhouse Gap. This hike and tour includes Rittenhouse Gap and parts of the right of way along the Catasauqua and Fogelsville Railroad south of Alburtis. Reservations can be made by contacting Kevin Shoemaker at 484.366.9987 or email at [email protected].
Sunday, May 20, 2–4 p.m. - Spring Planting at the Log House in Wescosville.
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal plants. Also, retired teacher and antique dealer Barb Kemp will demonstrate how to process and spin wool and alpaca fibers. She has been fascinated by spinning wheels ever since she was a child and says, "The mesmerizing wheel transports you to another world." Barb and her family have participated in the Goshenhoppen Folk festival, where she has demonstrated her craft for many years. Please join us and take a spin.
Fall 2017 Programs
Sept. 25, 7 pm: Greg Huber - "Pennsylvania Barns"
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Oct. 17, 7 pm: Doug Peters - "Transportation History"
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Nov. 12, 2-3:30 pm: Veterans Program - Dick Buss - "The Four Chaplains" - LMT Community Center
Nov. 19,12-4 pm:
LMTHS Museum Grand Opening
Camp Olympic Barn, 3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus
Sunday, Dec.10, 4-7 pm: Xmas at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Good food, warm fire, and good company in candlelit setting with live harp music. Open to all.
Spring 2017 Programs
Wednesday, April 19, 7pm
Cradle of the American Industrial Revolution: where Geography and Geology met Human Genius
Historian Martha Capwell Fox will present a slide show about the historical significance of the Lehigh Valley’s early industries. Camp Olympic Barn, Upper Level, 3120 S. Cedar Crest Blvd., Emmaus
Martha Capwell Fox has been the Archives and Museum Coordinator for the National Canal Museum/Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor since 2012. She was the assistant to the NCM Collections Manager from 2003 to 2005, and guest curator of the NCM exhibit “Behind the Seams: The Silk Industry in Eastern Pennsylvania.” Martha has presented three papers at Canal History and Technology Symposia: on the silk industry in the D&L Corridor, a biographical sketch of nineteenth-century entrepreneur José de Navarro, and an industrial history of Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, the site of the first commercially successful anthracite iron furnace. She was a Pennsylvania Commonwealth Speaker from 2004 to 2006. Also a professional writer and editor, Martha worked in magazine publishing at National Geographic and Rodale, Inc., and has published four books on local historical topics and three young adult histories on swimming, auto racing, and the Vatican. She is a graduate of American University with a dual degree in international relations and U.S. history.
Sunday, May 21, 2pm Sigal Museum Tour
342 Northampton St, Easton, PA
Group tour of the Sigal Museum in historic downtown Easton. The museum , includes the Northampton County Historical Society. Please let us know if you plan to attend, to ensure your discount admission of $5.00. Easton is famous for its restaurants, so you may want to include lunch on this excursion.
Sunday, June 11, 2-4pm Spring Planting and Signboard Tour
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
The log house will be open for tours, and the kitchen garden will be refreshed and planted with a selection of medicinal and culinary herbs and plants. Your children may assist in the garden, and adults will enjoy a walk with local historians to read and discuss signboards at Hamilton Crossings. Free.
Fall 2016 Programs
Thursday, Sept. 29, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The French and Indian War
by Douglas Pitchell and the New Jersey Frontier Guard "1756"
Sunday, October 9, 1-4 pm Harvest Festival at the Log House
Members' Potluck
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Thursday, October 27, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The Allentown & Reading Traction Company
Over 80 years have passed since the last trolley car of the Allentown & Reading Traction Company (A&R) ran on the streets of Allentown The company served Allentown, Dorney Park, Wescosville, East Texas, Trexlertown, Breingsville, Maxatawny, Monterey, Kutztown, Lyons, Fleetwood, Blandon, Temple, and Reading for over 30 years until final abandonment in 1936. The A&R, which owned Dorney Park until the mid-1920s, had the unusual distinction of having two different track gauges: standard from Allentown to Kutztown and wide gauge from Kutztown to Reading.
Join us as Doug Peters presents a slide program showing a trip over the line from Allentown to Reading and the bus service that replaced it.
Sunday, November 13, 2-3:30pm Veterans Day Program
LMT Community Center
Sunday, Dec. 11, 4-7pm Christmas Open House at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Spring 2016 Programs - Wednesday, March 30, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
Rev. Abraham Blumer, a life well-lived. by Edward Quinter
Our first spring program will trace the life of Rev. Abraham Blumer, from his birth and family in Switzerland, until his death and beyond. Rev. Blumer, a Reformed clergyman who was pastor of Allentown's Zion's Reformed Church in 1777, was an influential and respected local figure who remains largely unknown today. But this was not the case before the 20th century, since the Blumer name and family were involved in many local enterprises of note. Today, he is most remembered for his role in support of the American Revolution and the Liberty Bell.
Wednesday, April 13, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
Powwowing in Pennsylvania: Healing, Cosmology, and Tradition in the Dutch Country
by Patrick Donmoyer
The lore of Pennsylvania German folk healing, commonly known as Powwow in English, or Braucherei in the Pennsylvania German dialect, is a topic of great fascination. Patrick Donmoyer, of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University, will examine the wide spectrum of folk beliefs of the Pennsylvania Dutch, past and present, and demonstrate how folk ritual has been interwoven with everyday life throughout the past three centuries.
Thursday, May 19, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The Fleetwood Metal Body Company
by William Strause
The Fleetwood Metal Body Company was a custom automobile coach builder in the early 20th century, similar to the Duesenberg Motors Company of Indiana. The Fleetwood company was purchased by Fisher Body in 1925; and in 1931, Fisher moved the business to Detroit and incorporated it into the General Motors family. Bill Strause, president of the Fleetwood Area Historical Society, will tell the history of this fascinating Berks County industry that was the origin of the Cadillac Fleetwood model, and explain how two of it's employees and their descendants are still contributing to the legacy of Macungie today.
Saturday, June 5, 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Come enjoy an afternoon of old-fashioned family fun at the Bortz Log House in Wescosville Park. - cancelled due to inclement weather.
Fall 2015 Programs
Thursday evening, September 10, LMTHS president Sarajane Williams and her brother, Stephen Rauch, will present an illustrated talk about their new book, Rauch, Handwerk & Co., Builders, Jordan, PA. The book is subtitled A Family’s Contribution to Early Transportation and Commerce, and tells of generations of a family that made carriages and wagons, and sold equipment to area farmers. Books will be available for sale. Refreshments after the meeting. 7 p.m., Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Co-sponsor, Macungie Historical Society.
Saturday, October 10, 11 a.m. Field trip to the Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center in Pennsburg. For directions, click here. If you want to carpool, let us know and we will meet you in the Lower Macungie Community Center parking lot at 10:15.
Sunday, October 18, 2-4 pm Harvest Festival at the Log House with roundtable discussion of living in Ancient Oak in the 1960s and 1970s.
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Thursday, October 22, 7 pm at the Macungie Institute,
Patrick Donmoyer's slide show about early gravestones
Sunday, November 8, 2-3:30pm Veterans Day Program
LMT Community Center
Spring 2015 Programs
Wednesday, May 20, 7 p.m. Zinc Mining in the Saucon Valley
A PowerPoint Presentation by Ken V. Littlefield
Why this was such an important industry, when it started, and why it ended.
Ken Littlefield is the consulting geologist for Upper Saucon Township, where the deep mines spread over a large area between 309 south and the village of Friedensville.
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie
Memorial Day, May 25, 9 a.m., Township Park in Wescosville
The LMT Garden Club and historical society members laid a wreath and place flags to mark the day of remembrance at the memorial to fallen WWII soldiers.
Saturday, June 6, 2-4 p.m. Spring Planting at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Sunday, March 22, 2015: Barn Expo
The Lower Macungie Barn Expo was a collaborative effort between the LMTHS, the Schwenkfelder Museum & Heritage Center, the Historic Barn and Farm Foundation, and the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University to raise awareness and foster appreciation of the regional, cultural, and economic importance of the Pennsylvania Barn in the Lehigh Valley and adjoining communities. The informative program presented by nationally recognized speakers, in addition to a tour of a local barn, provided educational resources for the documentation, preservation, and restoration of local barns. Moreover, barn owners gained valuable insights about cost effective and efficient solutions for repairing and preserving their barns, tax incentives and ideas for re-purposing barns.
* Speakers: Jeff Marshall, Greg Huber, Doug Reed & Patrick Donmoyer
* Honoring of scholars of the barn: Don Yoder and Bob Ensminger
* Panel discussion with experienced local barn experts
Powwowing in Pennsylvania: Healing, Cosmology, and Tradition in the Dutch Country
by Patrick Donmoyer
The lore of Pennsylvania German folk healing, commonly known as Powwow in English, or Braucherei in the Pennsylvania German dialect, is a topic of great fascination. Patrick Donmoyer, of the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University, will examine the wide spectrum of folk beliefs of the Pennsylvania Dutch, past and present, and demonstrate how folk ritual has been interwoven with everyday life throughout the past three centuries.
Thursday, May 19, 7:00 pm - Macungie Institute
The Fleetwood Metal Body Company
by William Strause
The Fleetwood Metal Body Company was a custom automobile coach builder in the early 20th century, similar to the Duesenberg Motors Company of Indiana. The Fleetwood company was purchased by Fisher Body in 1925; and in 1931, Fisher moved the business to Detroit and incorporated it into the General Motors family. Bill Strause, president of the Fleetwood Area Historical Society, will tell the history of this fascinating Berks County industry that was the origin of the Cadillac Fleetwood model, and explain how two of it's employees and their descendants are still contributing to the legacy of Macungie today.
Saturday, June 5, 2:00 - 4:00 pm
Spring Planting at the Log House
Come enjoy an afternoon of old-fashioned family fun at the Bortz Log House in Wescosville Park. - cancelled due to inclement weather.
Fall 2015 Programs
Thursday evening, September 10, LMTHS president Sarajane Williams and her brother, Stephen Rauch, will present an illustrated talk about their new book, Rauch, Handwerk & Co., Builders, Jordan, PA. The book is subtitled A Family’s Contribution to Early Transportation and Commerce, and tells of generations of a family that made carriages and wagons, and sold equipment to area farmers. Books will be available for sale. Refreshments after the meeting. 7 p.m., Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie.
Co-sponsor, Macungie Historical Society.
Saturday, October 10, 11 a.m. Field trip to the Schwenkfelder Library and Heritage Center in Pennsburg. For directions, click here. If you want to carpool, let us know and we will meet you in the Lower Macungie Community Center parking lot at 10:15.
Sunday, October 18, 2-4 pm Harvest Festival at the Log House with roundtable discussion of living in Ancient Oak in the 1960s and 1970s.
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Thursday, October 22, 7 pm at the Macungie Institute,
Patrick Donmoyer's slide show about early gravestones
Sunday, November 8, 2-3:30pm Veterans Day Program
LMT Community Center
Spring 2015 Programs
Wednesday, May 20, 7 p.m. Zinc Mining in the Saucon Valley
A PowerPoint Presentation by Ken V. Littlefield
Why this was such an important industry, when it started, and why it ended.
Ken Littlefield is the consulting geologist for Upper Saucon Township, where the deep mines spread over a large area between 309 south and the village of Friedensville.
Macungie Institute, 510 East Main St., Macungie
Memorial Day, May 25, 9 a.m., Township Park in Wescosville
The LMT Garden Club and historical society members laid a wreath and place flags to mark the day of remembrance at the memorial to fallen WWII soldiers.
Saturday, June 6, 2-4 p.m. Spring Planting at the Log House
Bortz Log House, Wescosville Park, 5047 Hamilton Blvd., Wescosville
Sunday, March 22, 2015: Barn Expo
The Lower Macungie Barn Expo was a collaborative effort between the LMTHS, the Schwenkfelder Museum & Heritage Center, the Historic Barn and Farm Foundation, and the Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center at Kutztown University to raise awareness and foster appreciation of the regional, cultural, and economic importance of the Pennsylvania Barn in the Lehigh Valley and adjoining communities. The informative program presented by nationally recognized speakers, in addition to a tour of a local barn, provided educational resources for the documentation, preservation, and restoration of local barns. Moreover, barn owners gained valuable insights about cost effective and efficient solutions for repairing and preserving their barns, tax incentives and ideas for re-purposing barns.
* Speakers: Jeff Marshall, Greg Huber, Doug Reed & Patrick Donmoyer
* Honoring of scholars of the barn: Don Yoder and Bob Ensminger
* Panel discussion with experienced local barn experts
Featured Vendors
Alburtis Lockridge Historical Society
Eric Claypoole
Fink's Studio at Geranium Hill
The Lavender Farmette
LMTHS
LV Farmland Preservation
Marcus Blake
PA Barn Co.
Protective Coating Co.
Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center
Alburtis Lockridge Historical Society
Eric Claypoole
Fink's Studio at Geranium Hill
The Lavender Farmette
LMTHS
LV Farmland Preservation
Marcus Blake
PA Barn Co.
Protective Coating Co.
Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center
Past 2014 Programs (Sorry you missed them!)
Ray Finkelstein spoke about Covered Bridges in the area at the Macungie Institute on April 24. It was a very interesting illustrated discussion of the history of this type of bridge in the Lehigh Valley.
Historical society members hiked and followed an old rail bed to the site of the Rittenhouse Gap mines on April 26.
On May 17, Pat Taylor provided a colonial cooking class at the log house. Participants were surprised to find that the food prepared over an open hearth was just as good as food cooked in a modern oven.
Becky Short portrayed "Mistress Rebecca" at our meeting at the Macungie Institute, on May 22. Her presentation on necessary herbs for healing and cooking ranged through the centuries, and provided a most entertaining look at plants grown at different times and for different reason.
Several of our members attended the observance of Memorial Day in Wescosville, where a monument was erected in 1948 to honor the memory of seven local young men who had died in World War II. The Lower Macungie Garden Club did the honors, placing seven flags in front of the monument. Among those attending were a few surviving WWII and Korean War combat veterans. See photos on Facebook.
Sept. 13: PA Dutch players at the Macungie Institute; 1-3 pm.
Sunday, Oct. 12: LMTHS's 25th Anniversary Celebration at the LMT Community Center, 3450 Brookside Rd, Macungie, PA 18062; 1-4 pm. Food, demonstrations, history and genealogy, exhibits, children's activities, gifts, antique appraisals and more.
Saturday, Nov. 1: 'Collections Care 101' Class with Candace Perry at the Wescosville Recreation Center, 9:30 am- 12:30pm.
Sunday, Nov. 9: Veterans Day Program at the LMT Community Center; 2-3:30 pm. Michael E. Deibert, LtCol, USAFR (ret.) spoke about his military experiences as well as his multigenerational family of veterans. His 15-minute talk is entitled "Heroes and Survivors: three generations of military service." One of the members of his family about whom he spoke is his grandfather, Dr. George Solomon Deibert, who served as a medical officer and became a family doctor in Wescosville, where he served for many years and is still remembered by many.
Saturday, Dec. 13: Christmas Open House at the Bortz Log House in Wescosville, 4-7 pm. Good food, warm fire and good company in a comfortable 19th-century, candlelit setting. Open to all. Park in the Wescosville Rec Center parking lot, and walk up the path marked by luminaria to the front of the log house.
