Events

Cradle of Conservation: An Environmental History of Pennsylvania

  • August 21, 2025
  • LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA
  • 5pm Reception | 5:30pm Lecture
  • FREE | Registration Required
A graphic with two images. On the left is a headshot of a middle-aged man with a bald head wearing a green button up shirt. The right image is of the book cover of "Cradle of Conservation."
A graphic with two images. On the left is a headshot of a middle-aged man with a bald head wearing a green button up shirt. The right image is of the book cover of "Cradle of Conservation."
(left) Dr. Allen Dieterich-Ward (right) The book cover of “Cradle of Conservation.”

The environmental history of Pennsylvania includes William Penn’s instruction to “leave one acre of tree for every five acres cleared” and the 1971 ratification of the Environmental Rights Amendment as well as today’s debates over fracking and the threat of climate change. Dr. Allen Dieterich-Ward of Shippensburg University will share his survey of the “working landscapes” of Pennsylvania and Lancaster County from the 17th century to the present.

Dr. Allen Dieterich-Ward is a professor of history and director of The Graduate School at Shippensburg University. His first book, Beyond Rust: Metropolitan Pittsburgh and the Fate of Industrial America, won the 2016 Arline Custer Memorial Award from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference. His second book, Cradle of Conservation: An Environmental History of Pennsylvania, is now available from Temple University Press. He is the past president of the Pennsylvania Historical Association, former editor of the Pennsylvania History Series, and a board member of PA Humanities.

EVENT DETAILS & HOW TO REGISTER

This event will take place in person at LancasterHistory on Thursday, August 21, 2025. Doors open and a reception begins at 5pm. The lecture will begin at 5:30pm. The lecture will also be livestreamed to Zoom at 5:30pm for those who wish to join us virtually.

This program is free and open to the public. In-person attendance requires advance registration in order to guarantee a seat. Due to capacity restrictions, tickets may not be available at the door. Virtual attendance requires advance registration in order to receive the Zoom link. The Zoom link will be emailed to registrants before the event. Register online by clicking the appropriate link below or by calling (717) 392-4633. The online version of this program will also be recorded and uploaded to LancasterHistory’s YouTube channel after the event.

REGISTER TO ATTEND IN PERSON

REGISTER TO ATTEND ONLINE

By purchasing a ticket to our facility and/or program, you are agreeing to our Admissions & Programs Terms and Conditions.

Membership Makes History Happen! Your membership enables us to bring dynamic speakers to LancasterHistory and gives you other exciting benefits! Learn more about becoming a member of LancasterHistory or renewing your membership today.

Featured Event In-Person Event Lecture Reception

[SOLD OUT] Getting Started With DNA

This event is sold out!
Thank you for your interest. Please check back in the event tickets open up due to cancellations.

DNA is a powerful tool and, when paired with archival records, it can help answer many research questions about family history. On Saturday, August 16, Donna Backus, a genealogist with decades of experience, will cover the basics of DNA and how to use ancestry.com and other tools to learn more about your heritage.

Although there are no prerequisites for this workshop, it is recommended that prior to attending you have had your DNA analyzed, have an online family tree that dates back at least to second great-grandparents, and have linked your DNA results to yourself on your online tree. 

Donna Backus is a family genealogist and historian who has been conducting research for over fifty years. She has presented for genealogy groups throughout Lancaster County and spends her spare time keeping up to date on the latest technology associated with genealogy and family research. 

“Getting Started With DNA” will take place on Saturday, August 16 from 10-11:30am at LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster. Tickets are $20 for LancasterHistory Members and $25 for Non-Members. Advance registration is encouraged as the class has limited capacity. To register, please click here to register online or call (717) 392-4633 to register over the phone.

Class In-Person Event Workshop

August 16, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA 10-11:30am $25/Non-Members | $20 Members
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Music on the Lawn, feat. The Jordan Rast Trio

A black and white photo of three young men with various string guitar instruments.
The Jordan Rast Trio

Music on the Lawn returns this summer with more fantastic local bands in James Buchanan’s backyard! This family- (and dog-) friendly event welcomes attendees to relax and enjoy an evening outdoors with live music. August’s concert features The Jordan Rast Trio playing bluegrass, country, and Americana music.

Tickets are free for LancasterHistory Members, $10/Adult (18+) Non-Members, and free for Children 17 & Under. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Tickets are also available at-the-door with cash or card (cash preferred).

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, foldable chairs, and picnics. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. If you require any special accommodations to attend, please notify Annie Weeks at (717) 392-4633, ext. 134 or annie.weeks@lancasterhistory.org in advance. Restrooms available onsite.

 

Many Thanks to Our 2025 Music on the Lawn Season Sponsors!

A graphic with the sponsor logos of Mosaic by Willow Valley Communities, Ville Painters, EHD, and Yurchak Printing.

Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

August 23, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA 5-7pm FREE/LancasterHistory Members | $10/Non-Member Adults (18+) | FREE/Children 17 & Under
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Thyme to Grow: A Guide to Herb Gardening

A young woman with light skin and short brown hair. She wears glasses and a purple dress with a green cardigan in front of a greenhouse.
Madison Walter

Join the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum as we welcome August Nature Series presenter Madison Walter for “Thyme to Grow: A Guide to Herb Gardening.” Discover the wonderful world of herbs in this hands-on program. Explore various herb types, learn essential care techniques, and delve into the best practices for growing, harvesting, and preserving your herbs. Whether you are a beginner or looking to grow your green thumb, you’ll leave with practical skills and a new appreciation for our flavorful friends!

Madison Walter is the urban agriculture coordinator for the New Castle Conservation District, chair of the Delaware Urban Farm and Food Coalition, and a content developer and guest instructor for Longwood Gardens’ Continuing Education program. Leveraging her background in horticulture and Master’s Degree in Environmental Education, Madison has presented to local, national, and international audiences to build an understanding of how connections developed through farming and gardening build stronger communities. Her passion for plants and an equitable local food system are what drive her to encourage others to believe in a brighter, greener future.

HOW TO REGISTER
The event, “Thyme to Grow” will take place on Saturday, August 23 at 10am at LancasterHistory. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $10/Adults and $5/Children (17 & Under). Friends of the Tanger Arboretum members receive complimentary admission, but should still register for the program. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Advance tickets recommended as walk-in tickets are not guaranteed.

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE

Membership gets you more! Membership to the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum not only supports the care and conservation of this local natural resource, but also gets you great benefits such as complimentary admission to Nature Series programs! Learn more about membership and sign up today here.

The Friends of the Tanger Arboretum is a member of the American Horticultural Society Reciprocal Admission Program. AHS Reciprocal Admission Program members may register for tickets in advance and must show a valid membership card upon checking in. AHS Members should contact Emily Miller, emily.miller@lancasterhistory.org, with any questions or to register for tickets in advance.

This event is hosted by the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum. The Friends of the Tanger Arboretum, a subsidiary organization of LancasterHistory, helps foster public interest in, and support for, the maintenance and development of the Tanger Arboretum as a community asset. To learn more about the Arboretum or to become a member, please visit the Arboretum’s webpage.

 

The 2025 Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Nature Series is sponsored by Ever Green Tree & Lawn Care! Thank you for your support!

Children's Program Family-Friendly In-Person Event Nature Series Program

August 23, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave, Lancaster 10-11:30am $10/Adults | $5/Children (17 & Under) | FREE for Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Members
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Wine & Cheese and A Walk in the Trees

The Louise Arnold Tanger ArboretumJoin the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum for a delightful late-summer social on Friday, September 5 at LancasterHistory! Enjoy refreshing drinks and light bites, while taking a leisurely stroll through the many stately trees in the Arboretum. Plus, join us for a “State of the Arboretum” address and election of new Board Members for 2025-2026. (Must be an active member to vote.)

Wine & Cheese and A Walk in the Trees is free for Friends of the Tanger Arboretum members. Tickets for non-members are $25/person. Ticket purchase includes access to event, program, beverages, and appetizers. Non-alcoholic options will be available.

A reminder to Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Members at the Contributor ($100) level and above — Did you know you get two extra tickets to the Wine & Cheese as a benefit of your advanced membership? If purchasing online, make sure you are signed in to your account before adding all four tickets to your cart. The discount should activate automatically at check out. If you are interested in this benefit, you can become a member or call (717) 392-4633 to upgrade over the phone.

To RSVP, please click the button below to purchase or register online. You may also call Emily Miller at (717) 392-4633, ext. 133 to register over the phone. RSVPs are open through August 30.

RSVP to the Wine & Cheese

The event will take place at the Carriage House at LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Avenue, Lancaster, on Friday, September 5 from 5-7pm. The event is rain or shine.

Friends of the Tanger Arboretum Board of Trustees Election

The Board of Trustees hereby nominate the following candidates for election to the Board of Trustees for the Friends of the Tanger Arboretum:

  • Nominated for a Second Three-Year Term: Kevin Ramer
  • Nominated for a First Three-Year Term: Seymour Khalilov, Judith Milliken, Lorri Schmick, Nancy Schott, and Rick Shoup

Active Tanger Arboretum Members may vote in the election on September 5 at the Wine & Cheese.

Member Event - Arboretum Outdoor Tour Reception

September 5, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave, Lancaster 5-7pm FREE for Friends of the Tanger Arboretum | $25/Non-Members
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September First Friday

Photo of a group of people sitting in a parking space that has been transformed into a mini green space.
Park(ing) Day in Minneapolis.

On Friday, September 5, join LancasterHistory and Strong Towns Lancaster for Park(ing) Day at the Stevens & Smith Center! Park(ing) Day is a global, public, participatory project where people from across the world temporarily repurpose curbside parking spaces into communal spaces for parks, artwork, conversation, and more. With LancasterHistory’s expansion into Lancaster City, we’re excited to be a bigger part of the downtown community both inside and outside the building that was once Thaddeus Stevens’ home and law office!

On First Friday, LancasterHistory staff will be outside on South Queen Street talking about the Stevens & Smith Center and giving you a preview of the new programs we’re developing for the new site. Visitors will get hands on with history as they try on costumes from LancasterHistory’s education collection and recite key speeches that explore the meaning of freedom in America. It’s an evening designed for community connection, historical reflection, and creative expression as we transform a simple parking space into a place for meaningful dialogue about our past, present, and future.

September First Friday is a free event and open to the public. No registration required. The Stevens & Smith Center will not be open that evening for public visitation. All activities will take place outdoors.

Family-Friendly In-Person Event Off-Site Event Outdoor

September 5, 2025 45 S. Queen Street, Lancaster | Outside the Stevens & Smith Center 4-8pm FREE

Mr. Buchanan’s Coachman

A black and green colored carriage with four large wheels.
James Buchanan’s Carriage

Learn about James Buchanan’s coachmen: the men who represented him in public and transported him from place to place in his horse-drawn carriage. In addition to learning about who these people were, visitors will also explore the social and practical importance of coachmen in a time before automobiles.

Mr. Buchanan’s Coachman, a special guided tour of Wheatland, will be held on Saturday, September 6. Tours will be available on the hour, beginning at 10am and continuing until the last tour at 3pm. Please Note: These tours are not our regular General Admission tours and will be more focused on a particular topic than a general history of Buchanan and the home.

Tickets are available for purchase online or over the phone by calling (717) 392-4633. Advance reservations are highly recommended as tours may sell out and walk-in tickets may not be available. Members receive complimentary admission, but should reserve their tickets in advance to guarantee the tour time of their choice.

In-Person Event Tour

September 6, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Avenue, Lancaster Tours from 10am - 3pm FREE/Members | $17/Adults (18+) | $15/Seniors (65+) | $10 (11-College ID)
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“Cursed Are The Peacemakers” Buchanan Biography Book Launch

On left, the book cover for "Cursed Are The Peacemakers." On right, Dr. Michael J. Birkner.On Saturday, September 6, join LancasterHistory for the long-awaited book launch of “Cursed Are The Peacemakers:” President James Buchanan, A Biography by Philip Shriver Klein with an introduction by Dr. Michael J. Birkner. The book launch will feature a brief, 20-minute talk about the republication of the book and Dr. Klein, plus a book signing of “Cursed Are The Peacemakers” by Dr. Birkner.

Dr. Philip Shriver Klein’s biography on James Buchanan is considered to be one of the most thorough biographies on the 15th President, and the most remarkable for Klein’s unique perspective on Buchanan as a strict “constitutionalist.” After the book left publication, LancasterHistory connected with Dr. Klein’s family to republish the biography with Klein’s original title and a new cover, layout, and interior photographs. In particular, the book features a new, insightful introduction by Dr. Michael Birkner about Buchanan, Klein, and the historiography involved in the construction of presidential biographies and how their writing influences our assessment of presidents today.

The book launch event of “Cursed Are The Peacemakers:” President James Buchanan, A Biography will take place on Saturday, September 6, from 10 – 11:30am. The event will begin at 10am with a book signing by Dr. Birkner, followed by a brief talk at 10:30am. Dr. Birkner will resume book signings after his talk at 11am.

The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is requested. Click here to register online or call (717) 392-4633 to register over the phone. Copies of “Cursed Are The Peacemakers” will be available for purchase in the Museum Store. LancasterHistory members save 20%! Unsigned copies of the book will also be available for purchase online at lancasterhistory.org/shop after September 8.

Book Launch Book Signing In-Person Event

September 6, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10-11:30am FREE | Registration Requested
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Music on the Lawn, feat. Denison Witmer & The Vulcans

Two photographs of musicians. The man on the left has light skin and short brown hair. He holds an acoustic guitar in front of a piano. The photo on the right is of three young men with light skin, holding various acoustic guitars in a field.
(left) Denison Witmer and (right) The Vulcans.

Music on the Lawn concludes its 2025 Season with one final fantastic concert in James Buchanan’s backyard! September’s event features headliner indie-folk artist Denison Witmer and opening band, The Vulcans.

Tickets are free for LancasterHistory Members, $10/Adult (18+) Non-Members, and free for Children 17 & Under. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling (717) 392-4633. Tickets are also available at-the-door with cash or card (cash preferred).

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets, foldable chairs, and picnics. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. If you require any special accommodations to attend, please notify Annie Weeks at (717) 392-4633, ext. 134 or annie.weeks@lancasterhistory.org in advance. Restrooms available onsite.

 

Many Thanks to Our 2025 Music on the Lawn Season Sponsors!

A graphic with the sponsor logos of Mosaic by Willow Valley Communities, Ville Painters, EHD, and Yurchak Printing.

Family-Friendly In-Person Event Outdoor

September 13, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster, PA 5-7pm FREE/LancasterHistory Members | $10/Non-Member Adults (18+) | FREE/Children 17 & Under
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Research Center Book Sale

Support LancasterHistory’s Research Center at this one-in-a-generation book sale! A comprehensive review of the library resulted in the removal of many books from the collection. These books include duplicates, outdated editions, or those that are unrelated to the history of Lancaster County. This is your chance to browse and buy them! Books from the personal collections of LancasterHistory’s staff will also be on sale, so expect to find offerings from all genres, for all ages.

More information, including preferred way to pay, coming soon!

Sale Family-Friendly In-Person Event

September 13, 2025 LancasterHistory, 230 N. President Ave., Lancaster 10am - 4pm No Entry Fee