Upcoming Historical Society Events
Baker Mansion Lecture Series
February through October
FREE - Donations Accepted
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Explore a Wide Variety of Historical Topics with an Engaging Lineup of Knowledgeable Speakers . . .
The Blair County Historical Society is pleased to present its inaugural lecture series at the Baker Mansion History Museum. The talks take place in the lecture room in the basement level of the Mansion. All talks are free and open to the public, although donations are gratefully accepted. All talks take place at 7pm. Unless occurring in observance of a special anniversary, all presentations take place on the fourth Wednesday of each month. July 26 – Brady Crytzer - Book Signing to Follow War in the Peaceable Kingdom: The Kittanning Raid of 1756 In the fall of 1756, the colony of Pennsylvania launched the first military expedition in its history. At the intersection of Indian war, global imperialism, ethnic tensions and political intrigue, the Kittanning Raid remains a watershed moment in the history of Colonial America. August 23 – Elaine Conrad Exploring Wopsy: A Visual Journey This presentation will be a pictorial history of the Wopsononock Resort and the Railroad from 1889-1919. Included will be many rare and seldom seen vintage images and local newspaper accounts of this Blair County story. September 27 – Doug Bosley Freedom on the Rails: The Allegheny Portage Railroad's Role in the Underground Railroad Park Ranger Doug Bosley will take a look at the Portage Railroad’s use as an escape route for runaway slaves. This will include an examination of the Jacob Green incident that nearly led to a civil war between Pennsylvania and Virginia, starting in Hollidaysburg in 1855. October 25 - Michael Allison White Ladies, Hairy Beasts and Things That Go Bump in the Night There are many legends and folktales in Pennsylvania, some of which date back to the Colonial era, but most are much older. In this talk we will examine some of these mysteries, their possible origins, and their unique cultural legacies. This talk makes for a timely and lively presentation for the Halloween season! |
2017 Free Concerts at Baker Mansion
Sunday, July 9th Backyard Rockers 1:30pm
Sunday, July 23rd Altoona Community Band 1:30pm
Sunday, August 13th Running Creek 1:30pm
Altoona Area High School Marching Band TBA
Art at Baker: A Special Exhibition at the Mansion
July 11 - September 9, 2017
This special art exhibition highlighting the talents of local artists opens July 11 and runs through September 9th. The showcase features the works of Ralph Bennett, Helen Gorsuch, John Skrabalak, Scott Steberger, Kevin Suckling, and Sharon Wall. Coordinated by fellow artist Michael Allison, who has restored many rooms at Baker Mansion, the exhibit is included in regular admission to the site.
Born to be Wild: A 1960s-1970s Dinner-Dance Party
September 1, 2017
The Blair County Historical Society is pleased to host a dinner dance party on the lawn of Baker Mansion to mark the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. The transitions of the 1960s and 1970s were marked by some of the best music ever created. Rock and Roll began as a joyful means of youthful liberation and was later seen as a genuine force of cultural and political consequence. This uniquely colorful musical commemoration serves as a timely means of remembering the emotions, ideals, and sacrifices that forever changed the Baby Boomer generation and the country. The evening will feature specialty food from the Bird's Nest Cafe, beverages, prizes, and--best yet--the greatest hits of the era. Drive your vintage car, break out your uniform or tye dye, and dance the night away in the picturesque yard surrounding the Bob and Janet Pennington Stage. A special tribute will be paid to all attending Vietnam War veterans, who will also receive discounted admission. Proceeds from the event will go toward the ongoing development of Baker Mansion's veterans' exhibit.
To help make this lively event accessible and economically friendly to a broad audience, the Blair County Historical Society is seeking donations and sponsorships. Contributions in any amount are greatly appreciated. Guests are encouraged to sponsor tickets for friends and family--especially Vietnam War veterans. We welcome your support and participation as we honor a pivotal time in our nation's history. Tickets are $30 per person and $50 per couple. RSVP by August 20.
To help make this lively event accessible and economically friendly to a broad audience, the Blair County Historical Society is seeking donations and sponsorships. Contributions in any amount are greatly appreciated. Guests are encouraged to sponsor tickets for friends and family--especially Vietnam War veterans. We welcome your support and participation as we honor a pivotal time in our nation's history. Tickets are $30 per person and $50 per couple. RSVP by August 20.
Baker Mansion History Museum Neighborhood Bus Tour by Dr. Michael Farrow
September 10, 2017
Royer Mansion Pumpkin Festival
September 30, 2017
Exploring Haunted History
All Throughout October
October 13 and 14 - Ghost Hunts at Baker Mansion
8pm to 12am - $40 per person per night
Baker Mansion is said by some to be one of the most haunted historical sites in Pennsylvania. The 170 year-old mansion is a wonderfully eerie place to explore in the dead of night. Immerse yourself in lifestyle of the 1800s as you explore the haunted hallways of the hallowed homestead. Participants are encourage to bring their own paranormal detective equipment, flashlights, cameras, and recorders to catch a glimpse of the spirits who supposedly roam the majestic mansion. The fee includes an historical introduction to the site, free refreshments, and the accessible knowledge of site volunteers on standby. Tickets must be purchased in advance via Paypal. Please note: No outside food or beverages are permitted on site. The Historical Society has the right to refuse or remove participants who do not abide by museum policies and expectations. All proceeds benefit the museum.
October 20 and 21 - Murder Mystery Tour at the Mansion
7pm to 10pm - $10 per person
Mayhem, murder, and some good old sleuthing fun await you on this entertaining mansion tour. Put on your detective hat and walk the majestic halls of the mansion, solving clues as you retrace the steps of a killer to solve a crime. Go from room to room on an interactive, mysterious stroll as you hunt a murderer. Work to piece together the timeline of the crime as witnesses share clues, provide alibis, and offer their colorful background stories. Follow in the footsteps of the killer as you work to uncover whodunit—picking up a few interesting real-life facts along the way. Purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged. All proceeds support the museum.
October 25 - Michael Allison Presentation - White Ladies, Hairy Beasts and Things That Go Bump in the Night
7pm at Baker Mansion - Free admission!
There are many legends and folktales in Pennsylvania, some of which date back to the Colonial era, but most are much older. In this talk we will examine some of these mysteries, their possible origins, and their unique cultural legacies. This talk makes for a timely and lively presentation for the Halloween season! Seats are first come, first serve. Donations are gratefully accepted.
October 27 - Downtown Altoona Haunted History Tour
7pm and 9pm - $20 per person
Join history instructor Jared Frederick as he explores the haunted history of downtown Altoona by lantern light. Ever since its construction in the 1840s, the areas of 10th, 11th, and 12th Avenues have been the site of murders, fires, train wrecks, and mysterious deaths of every conceivable manner. Walk in the footsteps of the city's forebearers while learning about the darker side of the town's colorful past. Please note: This tour includes approximately 3/4 of a mile of walking. A flashlight and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. All participants who embark on this street tour do so at their own risk. Tickets must be obtained in advance via Paypal and the receipt should be brought to the tour as verification of payment. All proceeds support the Blair County Historical Society.
8pm to 12am - $40 per person per night
Baker Mansion is said by some to be one of the most haunted historical sites in Pennsylvania. The 170 year-old mansion is a wonderfully eerie place to explore in the dead of night. Immerse yourself in lifestyle of the 1800s as you explore the haunted hallways of the hallowed homestead. Participants are encourage to bring their own paranormal detective equipment, flashlights, cameras, and recorders to catch a glimpse of the spirits who supposedly roam the majestic mansion. The fee includes an historical introduction to the site, free refreshments, and the accessible knowledge of site volunteers on standby. Tickets must be purchased in advance via Paypal. Please note: No outside food or beverages are permitted on site. The Historical Society has the right to refuse or remove participants who do not abide by museum policies and expectations. All proceeds benefit the museum.
October 20 and 21 - Murder Mystery Tour at the Mansion
7pm to 10pm - $10 per person
Mayhem, murder, and some good old sleuthing fun await you on this entertaining mansion tour. Put on your detective hat and walk the majestic halls of the mansion, solving clues as you retrace the steps of a killer to solve a crime. Go from room to room on an interactive, mysterious stroll as you hunt a murderer. Work to piece together the timeline of the crime as witnesses share clues, provide alibis, and offer their colorful background stories. Follow in the footsteps of the killer as you work to uncover whodunit—picking up a few interesting real-life facts along the way. Purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged. All proceeds support the museum.
October 25 - Michael Allison Presentation - White Ladies, Hairy Beasts and Things That Go Bump in the Night
7pm at Baker Mansion - Free admission!
There are many legends and folktales in Pennsylvania, some of which date back to the Colonial era, but most are much older. In this talk we will examine some of these mysteries, their possible origins, and their unique cultural legacies. This talk makes for a timely and lively presentation for the Halloween season! Seats are first come, first serve. Donations are gratefully accepted.
October 27 - Downtown Altoona Haunted History Tour
7pm and 9pm - $20 per person
Join history instructor Jared Frederick as he explores the haunted history of downtown Altoona by lantern light. Ever since its construction in the 1840s, the areas of 10th, 11th, and 12th Avenues have been the site of murders, fires, train wrecks, and mysterious deaths of every conceivable manner. Walk in the footsteps of the city's forebearers while learning about the darker side of the town's colorful past. Please note: This tour includes approximately 3/4 of a mile of walking. A flashlight and comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. All participants who embark on this street tour do so at their own risk. Tickets must be obtained in advance via Paypal and the receipt should be brought to the tour as verification of payment. All proceeds support the Blair County Historical Society.
2017 Annual Society Dinner and Awards Ceremony
Thursday November 9th
Heritage Holidays Tours
December 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, & 22-23, 2017
$8 per person, $5 per students 12 & under
Easter Egg Hunt at Baker Mansion
Spring 2018
Civil War Weekend at Royer Mansion
May 2018
Royer Mansion Antique Show
June 2018
Vintage Car Cruise-In at Baker Mansion
June 2018
World War II Victory Weekend
June 2018
