New Holland Area Historical Society Is Conducting the Museum Fundraising Campaign

Over the years several persons with a keen interest in New Holland History have amassed significant quantities of photos, artifacts, memorabilia and information of various kinds all owing to the rich history of New Holland and the immediate surrounding areas. Examples are: a poster announcing construction of the New Holland School dated 1874, a complete collection of New Holland High School year books, a collection of Town Clock News school papers, baseball uniforms from when New Holland had a team in the county summer league, and much much more. The Board of Trustees of the New Holland Area Historical Society (a 501-C-3 nonprofit organization founded in 2005) has determined that it is time a permanent space be designated for the history and heritage of the New Holland area.  This collection should be preserved and accessible so current and future generations of our beloved town can both appreciate and benefit from our rich history. Steve Loewen, a lifelong New Holland resident, history buff, and Trustee of the New Holland Area Historical Society, has made the second floor of the historic Kauffman building available for consolidating, expanding and displaying this collection.

Renovations are under way to restore the second floor of the historic Kauffman Building and establish this space as the future home of the NHAHS Museum.  While having to adhere to current building codes, much thought has been given to retaining as much of the old charm of this space as possible. The total cost of this phase of the museum is estimated at approximately $105,000.  Last fall New Holland Borough was awarded a grant from Lancaster County Community Development Funds in the amount of $16,288 to apply towards the Museum project.  Donations of gifts in kind, many hours of volunteer labor, and discounts offered by local merchants on building materials have helped fund the project thus far. 

The anticipated grand opening for the museum is before year end of 2011; however, the actual opening will depend on the Community’s response to the "Drive to Keep New Holland Area History Alive" campaign.

Vision for NHAHS MUSEUM

 Provide a central location for storing historical artifacts, photos, documents, genealogies and biographies

Maintain permanent displays and create short term “feature” displays for public viewing

Provide public access to the museum during community events, during feature display periods and on a limited basis yet to be determined.

 Encourage use of the museum for historical research

Whether you were born here, went to school here, worked here, have family ties living here or currently live here, or maybe even all of the above, we all have roots here in one way or another.  If you believe the history of our town and this area is worth preserving for the future, we encourage you to contribute to the “Drive to Keep New Holland Area History Alive” and be a part of this exciting project. 

For information about the campaign, the museum project, membership in the Historical Society, how to become a volunteer, or you have artifacts or memorabilia you wish to donate, Click here.

Thank You for Your Support to Keep New Holland Area History Alive.