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. June 28 – Jim Fitch Canoe Creek State Park: 1900 - 1940 Join Jim Fitch for a unique look into the historical and natural evolution of Canoe Creek State Park in Blair County. Learn how the site was utilized for railroading, lumbering, mining, and kiln operations throughout the first half of the 20th century. Jim is highly involved in The Friends of Canoe Creek. 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! |
Baker Mansion Tea
June 25, 2017
June 25: Summer Tea on the Porch - Come recreate the leisure and grace of long ago with friends. Enjoy sweets and savories. Bring a special tea cup and share its history! Dress up if you'd like and hats and gloves are encouraged. A prize will be awarded for the loveliest hat. Treat your self to sweets, variety of hot teas, or a glass of sweet tea and lemonade to escape the hot daze of summer.
Tea Time is 2PM to 4PM, admission is $10.00 per person. All sales are final. No refunds.
Tea Time is 2PM to 4PM, admission is $10.00 per person. All sales are final. No refunds.
Royer Mansion Watermelon & Quilt Show
July 8, 2017
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
People's Choice Art Exposition at Baker Mansion
August Show - Reception & Opening: August 4, 2017
Baker Mansion History Museum Neighborhood Bus Tour by Dr. Michael Farrow
September 10, 2017
Royer Mansion Pumpkin Festival
September 30, 2017
Mansion Photo Courtesy Chris Letherland.
Ghost Hunts at Baker Mansion
October 14 and 21, 2017
7pm to Midnight - $40 per person
Ghost Stories at Baker Mansion
October 27-28, 2017
$8 per person
Annual Society Dinner and Awards Ceremony
November 10, 2017
Heritage Holidays Tours
December 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, & 22-23, 2017
$7 per person
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
