The exhibits listed below are being made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services--Grant IGSM-257792-OMS-25. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this exhibitions and programs do not necessarily represent those of the Institute of Museum and Library Services or the U.S. Government. For more information about the granting agency, visit www.imls.gov.

Exhibits

Who lived in the Perkiomen Region in the 1700s?

Traveling exhibit February 2026–April 2027

In preparation for 2026, we commissioned a demographic study to learn who lived in the Perkiomen Region from roughly 1735 to 1835 (from the arrival of Pennsylvania Germans to the final period of the Gradual Abolition Act). General knowledge states that the region was primarily settled by white Pennsylvania Germans, but questions arise as to whether any Africans were here too. This exhibit will share the answers we have uncovered and the fascinating research methodologies that were used and will be offered to community organizations and schools to have on display. Research was supported by the Philadelphia Funder Collocative for the Semiquincentennial.

These Truths are not Self-evident: Stories of the Revolution in the Perkiomen Region

April 17, 2026–March 27, 2027

The American Revolutionary era was a time of tremendous upheaval, including in central and western Montgomery County, PA, and this evidence survives in stories. Some stories are known facts, and some might be anecdotal. This exhibit will use numerous stories that have been passed down to us as the basis for a “graphic novel.” Historical and anecdotal evidence will be presented to help exhibit visitors weigh fact and fiction, with an interactive device to help them determine their own answers. Partially funded by the Gladys Krieble Delmas Foundation.

Revolutionary Fraktur

June 12, 2026–April 25, 2027

Drawing upon our deep and colorful collection of fraktur, we will exhibit a selection of about 40 fraktur produced during the American Revolutionary period, 1763–1787.

Evolution of the Pennsylvania Longrifle - Early Years

July 18, 2026–October 18, 2026

Long-rifles were finely crafted works of art that developed from the European tradition and had beautiful relief and incised carving. On loan from collectors, the long-rifles will showcase the workmanship and origins of these firearms.

Programs

Programs for all ages are in development. This calendar will be updated periodically. Here are the programs next up:

Exhibit Opening Activities:

Who Lived in the Perkiomen Region in the 1700s?

February 14 10am-4pm

Come meet the curator Emma Hartman. At 11am and again at 2pm, she will present “More Stories From the Archives,” sharing additional things learned during her research into the population of the region at the time of the Revolutionary War with an emphasis on African Americans. During the day, she also will guide people through how to use the large database she created in her year of research. The presentations are free and do not require a reservation. The exhibit and this program are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services--Grant IGSM-257792-OMS-25.

Brown Bag: Log Buildings in 18th Century Southeastern Pennsylvania

March 11 noon

The majority of buildings in Bucks, Philadelphia (now Montgomery) and Chester Counties in the early 1700s were of log construction: houses, barns, churches, mills, sheds, stables, etc. Local historian Bob Wood will help us see how many log dwellings still remain, sometimes to the surprise of their owners. To register, go to the calendar and click on date.

Early American Candle Making Workshop

March 28 noon–2pm

Journey back in time to learn the art of crafting candles with natural beeswax. Take part in the careful and significant process of candle dipping, a traditional Early American method, as you create your own double wick 100% beeswax hand-dipped candle as well as a 5" cinnamon scented display ornament, by a method similarly used by German Lebkuchen Bakers in from a stoneware cookie mold (designs vary). A historic presentation from colonial period interpreters during class will reveal some interesting facts about early American living and the history of candle making in the 1700s. All materials are supplied. No prior skill required. To register, go to the calendar and click on date.

Independence Weekend

July 3–5, 2026

Working with the Rotary Club of Upper Perkiomen and Upper Perkiomen Chamber of Commerce, the Heritage Center joins many community groups to host a stupendous three-day commemoration of food, fireworks, and fairs.

Longrifle Symposium

August 22, 2026

Day of lectures by noted scholars and collectors. Stay tuned for registration details.