MVP News: June 2024

MVP applauds the plan for the new Myerstown Area Heritage Center and Museum.

People love Myerstown for its blend of events that unite the community, the pride of calling it home, and the “Never forget” priority of celebrating our community’s history and heritage.

A group of local volunteer citizens will dedicate themselves to making sure the dream of our own Myerstown Heritage Center and Museum becomes a reality in 2026. The planning team includes Doug Bahney, Bill Behney, Brian Beamesderfer, Donald R. Brown, Suzie Eckenroth, Dan Flanagan, Denise Gouldey, Jeff Gumpert, Edna Haak, Sandy Sandoe, John Witter, and Joel Zinn.

The Mission of this new “destination” for visitors is to collect, preserve, and display to the public the art and artifacts related to the history, sciences, and technologies that reflect the local life and culture of Myerstown and Jackson Township, Lebanon County, Pennsylvania.

How is this possible?

We owe thanks for the funding provided by the residual of the Lillian I. Bahney Beautification Trust, which specified the establishment of the Myerstown Area Museum. As a result, several Myerstown natives have met to form the Myerstown Area Heritage Center and Museum.

In addition to the museum, the Myerstown Area Heritage Center envisions the location in the Myerstown Community Building, 101 South Railroad Street, Myerstown, as a gathering place for local events that recognize and continue Myerstown and Jackson Township’s traditions. The Myerstown Borough generously provided space on the second floor (elevator accessible).

Here is how you can help.

The Heritage Center and Museum is looking for volunteers to help us organize displays and share ideas for improving the institute. Donations are, of course, welcome. The Myerstown Area Heritage Center and Museum is officially incorporated as a 501(c)3 organization, enabling the donor to receive a tax deduction for a contribution.

For inquiries, please get in touch with us by email at myerstownheritagectr@gmail.com.

Steve Goodhue, MVP Chair, says, “The MVP commends these community-minded citizens who have taken the initiative to launch this project for our community—special thanks to the Lillian I. Bahney Beautification Trust. We could not have done this without this support.”

For more about the MVP, find our previous columns below: