We aim to locate, document, chronicle and preserve, when possible, the sites and artifacts of historical significance from this region. Prehistoric Native American origins can be traced through maps and artifacts over the years have been excavated from this land. There are few sites remaining from our nation's colonial days, most of which are in desperate need of attention. Unique to our region's history is the Whiskey Rebellion, as well as the blend of many industries. With the increase of new housing and commercial developments, special attention should be given to the preservation of barns and houses which remain from the old farmsteads along with buildings which housed companies through the years to what they are today.
The neighborhoods of West Elizabeth, Jefferson Hills and Pleasant Hills are filled with families whose ancestors have lived here for centuries. Many of their names can be found on our streets and buildings.
One of our goals is to collect the genealogies of our residents along with photographs and artifacts to show their importance in the growth and development of this area. By collecting verbal narratives from our community elders we can create an understanding as to how things have evolved through the years and establish a vital connection from the past through the present and into the future.
Our purpose isn't only to uncover and preserve the past of this region, but also to record the present for it is to be the history of the future.
The Society is currently collecting historical documents, artifacts, photographs and pertinent memorabilia and nostalgic items from the area, and, in addition, is serving as an information source for genealogical research and record keeping. As our organization grows, we hope to archive records pertaining to local churches, cemeteries, schools, families, homesteads, businesses and industries; not to mention local military history, particularly our veterans and their stories; civil service history and Native American history of this region.
The Society not only collects and archives our local history, but also provides regular monthly gatherings to discuss a wide variety of historical topics, workshops, field trips, demonstrations and lectures. We hope to establish an annual tour of Historic Homes and Sites of Our Region. The Society publishes a newsletter which features original articles in addition to reproductions of articles from out of the past; a complete listing of the society's archives and recent acquisitions; upcoming events, meeting dates and topics; and much more.