ALTOONA – Two history centers in Blair County received a combined $27,600 through the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC), Rep. Lou Schmitt (R-Altoona) and Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) announced.
“Altoona, and the whole of Blair County, has a rich history well-worthy of preserving for future generations,” Schmitt said. “The funding awarded today will be further enshrine our heritage. I applaud the PHMC for recognizing the importance of our local efforts.”
The Railroaders Memorial Museum received $19,600. The funding will be used to aid in the preservation, interpretation and promotion of railroad heritage in Central Pennsylvania, ensuring the sustainability of the organization.
The Blair County Historical Society was awarded an $8,000 grant to continue to maintain the Baker Mansion History Museum to continue to promote community involvement, provide educational programs and historical research and promote local tourism.
“The Railroaders Memorial Museum and Baker Mansion are two of the historical gems in Blair County. These grants will help promote the regions remarkable past, foster deeper community, and strengthen the local economy,” Ward said.
The PHMC is the history agency of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The purpose of the grant program is to provide general operating support to museums and official county historical societies that are not directly supported by other state agency operating support programs.