Waynesboro Historical Society facts for kids
Oller House
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| Formation | 1963 |
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| Type | Historical Society |
| Headquarters | 138 West Main Street Waynesboro, PA 17268 |
| Website | Homepage |
The Waynesboro Historical Society is a group dedicated to preserving history in Waynesboro, Pennsylvania. It was started in 1963. The Society's main office is located in the historic Oller House. This group works hard to protect old buildings and important places in the Waynesboro area. They also hold regular meetings where people can learn about local history from different speakers.
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The Oller House: A Special Gift
The Oller House, where the Society is based, was once owned by the Oller family. A member of the family, Rello Oller, wanted to make sure the house would be used to help preserve history. So, in 1990, she made an agreement for the Waynesboro Historical Society to use the house. After she passed away, the house officially became the property of the Society.
Why the Oller House is Important
The Oller House is very special! In 1996, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This is a list of buildings, sites, and objects that are important to the history of the United States. Being on this list helps protect the house and recognize its historical value.
Exploring Historical Collections
The Waynesboro Historical Society has many interesting items that help us learn about the past. These items are called "collections." They help tell the story of Waynesboro and its people.
- Books and Pamphlets: They have many books, from old, rare ones to newer books about local history.
- Handwritten Papers: This includes old letters, diaries, business records, and scrapbooks. These papers show us what life was like for people and organizations long ago.
- Pictures and Art: The Society has old photos, drawings, maps, and posters. These images give us a visual look into Waynesboro's history.
- Everyday Items: They also collect things like old event programs, invitations, advertisements, and menus. These small items show us details about daily life in the past.
- Family History Records: If you're curious about your family's roots in Waynesboro, they have many records. These include information about local families, cemetery lists, and old funeral home records.
Historic Places the Society Protects
The Waynesboro Historical Society owns and takes care of five important historical properties in the Waynesboro area. By maintaining these places, they help keep history alive for everyone.
- Oller House: The Society's headquarters and a beautiful historic home.
- Harbaugh Church: An old church with a rich history.
- Historic Marker at the birthplace of Reverend Dr. Henry Harbaugh: A special sign marking the spot where an important historical figure was born.
- Welty's Bridge: An old bridge that is part of the area's heritage.
- Zullinger School: A historic school building.
