Cumberland County Historical Society

06/10/2026

Step into the world of renowned folk artist Wilhelm Schimmel (1817–1890), whose hand-carved and painted animals, birds, and iconic eagles have become treasured works of American folk art. During the late 19th century, Schimmel traveled throughout Cumberland County, often exchanging his carvings for food and lodging while staying in local barns and homes.

Today, the Cumberland County Historical Society proudly holds one of the largest collections of Schimmel carvings in existence, including a remarkable large pine spread-wing eagle on display in the Schimmel section of the museum’s second floor.

Schimmel frequently stayed with the Greider family at their mill along the Conodoguinet Creek. That historic mill—now known as Heishman’s Mill—will host the Spirit of Schimmel Wood Carving Expo on Saturday, June 13. Don’t miss this celebration of local history, folk art, and craftsmanship!

06/09/2026

Join local author and historian Joseph David Cress this summer at the Cumberland County Historical Society as he shares stories from his newest book, Rally Round the Flag, exploring life on the World War II home front in Carlisle and Cumberland County.

📍 Todd Hall, Cumberland County Historical Society
21 N. Pitt St., Carlisle

📅 Presentation Dates
• Saturday, June 20 | 1–2 p.m.
• Saturday, July 18 | 10–11 a.m.

Then, meet Joseph in person and pick up a signed copy of his book!

📚 Author Book Signing
📍 History on High the Shop
33 W. High St., Carlisle
📅 Saturday, August 15 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a WWII buff, or simply curious about Cumberland County's past, these events offer a fascinating look at how local residents experienced one of the most pivotal periods in American history.

We hope to see you there!

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06/08/2026

🎬 Join us for a special screening of The Rainbow Under the Red Tape, a student-produced documentary exploring LGBTQ+ history, resilience, and activism right here in Central Pennsylvania and Cumberland County.

The film highlights the LGBT Center of Central PA History Project and features local historian Barry Loveland. Following the screening, stay for a community discussion with Barry and learn more about the stories that helped shape our region.

🌈 Attendees will also have the opportunity to visit our special exhibit, Freedom to Be.

📍 Todd Hall, Cumberland County Historical Society
💲 Free for CCHS members and students with a valid school ID
💲 $6 for non-members and non-students (pay at the door)

Come experience an inspiring evening of history, conversation, and community.

https://www.historicalsociety.com/event/documentary-screening-the-rainbow-under-the-red-tape/

06/07/2026

You never know where you'll find our staff! 😊 Recently, Sydney and Ciji, along with our museum interns, joined the Shippensburg History Center for their History Days program. Over several rewarding days, they connected with more than 160 local middle school students, sharing stories and exploring history together.

We love partnering with fellow history lovers to inspire the next generation of learners!

06/06/2026

Missed our special program celebrating Carlisle Borough's 275th Anniversary last Saturday? Or would you like to experience it again?

Now is your chance! Watch the recording of this fascinating presentation by our own Jen Patel and Merri Lou Schaumann as they explore 275 years of Carlisle's rich history, memorable people, and significant milestones.

Whether you joined us in person or couldn't attend, we invite you to sit back, enjoy the program, and celebrate the remarkable story of our community.

🎥 Watch the recording and discover why Carlisle's history continues to inspire us today!

Merri Lou Schuamann and Jennifer Patel provide an overview of chang...

06/05/2026

🍩 Happy National Donut Day! 🍩

Whether you like them covered in sugar, dipped in chocolate, filled with jelly, or topped with a classic glaze, there's a donut for everyone!

What's your favorite kind of donut? 🍩 And where do you go to get your favorite sweet treat? Share your favorite flavor and local bakery or donut shop in the comments—we'd love to hear your memories!

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06/04/2026

Step back in time and join us on July 3 from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM and again 6: 00 PM - 8:00 PM for The U.S. Constitution, Virtue, and the Pursuit of the Common Good.

Experience an engaging tavern-style conversation between George Washington and Patrick Henry as they debate the principles that shaped our nation, moderated by LTG James Dubik. This special program is presented in partnership with the J. Sherwood McGinnis, Jr. War, Peace and Justice Project.

After the discussion, stay and enjoy the Block Party festivities as we continue celebrating our nation's founding and the ideas that still inspire us today!

📅 July 3, 2026

https://www.historicalsociety.com/events/

06/04/2026

Step back into the kitchens of Cumberland County with this delicious recipe shared in The Sentinel’s “In My Neighbor’s Kitchen” series on June 4, 1966. Mrs. Melva Weary featured a French-inspired dish collected by her daughter, Sandra, during her studies abroad: Escalopes à la Bolognaise paired with a fresh tomato and avocado salad.

From tender veal layered with baked ham, cheddar cheese, cream, and tarragon to a light Mediterranean-style salad, this meal brought a taste of France to local tables nearly 60 years ago. Recipes like these remind us how food connects family traditions, travel, and community history.

Do you have a favorite family recipe passed down through generations? We’d love to hear about it!

Photo ID: SE66.06.04.03

06/03/2026

Did you know Carlisle once played a major role in the bicycle industry? 🚲

Founded in 1917, Carlisle Tire & Rubber became the largest maker of bicycle tires in the western hemisphere thanks to its invention of the seamless inner tube. From the 1950s on, the company was known for manufacturing specialty tires, bicycle tubes, and automotive inner tubes before relocating to Franklin, Tennessee in 1987.

On National Bike Day, we celebrate Cumberland County’s connection to cycling history and the industries that helped keep America moving.

Visit our museum to see this and learn more about Cumberland County.

06/02/2026

On Saturday, June 6, the Cumberland County Historical Society will be closed as we join family and friends in celebrating the life of our dear friend, Ann Hoffer.

The Kramer family warmly invites the community to gather in Ann’s honor at the Carlisle Country Club, 1242 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (remarks at 11:30 a.m.).

Please come and enjoy food, drinks, music, and the opportunity to share memories and stories of Ann—a cherished friend and a true pillar of our society. Her dedication, generosity, and lasting impact on our community will never be forgotten.

We hope you will join us in celebrating a remarkable life.