In the News

The talented volunteers and activities of the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation, Museum, and Beaver Station regularly are in the news and make news. If you are a journalist and would like more information or to request an interview, please contact info@beaverheritage.org.

2024

August 28, 2024 – READ: “Did you hear the one about the unique storytelling event in Beaver?“  via – Beaver County Times

April 28, 2024 – For the second time in eight months, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has published an article about the Beaver Area Heritage Museum’s annual exhibit.  The piece by Karen Kadilak details how this 2024 exhibit came to be, quoting family members of the local pilot along with Museum Trustee Tom Dowlin. READ: “World War II pilot’s story returns home in Beaver museum exhibit” – via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 

April 15, 2024 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: “Beaver Heritage Museum Receives Third Award and Cash Prize for Quay “Saint or Sinner” Exhibit” 

April 3, 2024 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: “Beaver Heritage Museum Opens 2024 Exhibit Honoring Local WWII Casualty“

March 19, 2024 – For the eighth year in a row, Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center receives a WeddingWire Couples Choice Award based on actual user reviews. 

March 3, 2024 – Heritage Foundation Speaker Series program “Beaver Art Group – A 75-year Legacy of Fine Art’ is featured in the article, “Natural Talent” – via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 

2023

September 8, 2023 – Museum officials Beth Spence, Tom Dowlin and Mark Miner interviewed on “Live Mic with Mike Romigh” – WBVP/WMBA-AM, 99.3/95.7 FM

August 4, 2023 – READ: “Was U.S. Sen Matthew Quay from Beaver a saint or sinner?” – via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 

June 26, 2023 – READ: “Beaver Area Museum wins national award for Matthew Quay exhibit“  via – Beaver County Times

June 26, 2023 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: “Beaver Museum’s “Quay” Exhibit, Documentary Receive National and Statewide Awards” 

April 5, 2023 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: “Beaver Museum’s “Quay” Exhibit to Receive Statewide PA Museums Award” 

March 5, 2023 – For the seventh year in a row, Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center receives a WeddingWire Couples Choice Award based on actual user reviews. 

March 21, 2023 – READ: “Beaver Museum’s award-winning Quay exhibit to stay open through June” via – Beaver County Times

2022

December 12, 2022 – READ: “‘Sinner’ not ‘saint;’ voters make choice on Beaver senator’s legacy” via – Beaver County Times

December 09, 2022 – The Votes Have Been Counted – The Results Are in! WATCH the Announcement/Reveal video via our YouTube channel.  “Vote Results | Matthew Stanley Quay | Saint or Sinner?“ 

November 21, 2022 – “BAHF YouTube Channel goes live.” WATCH our 2022 history documentary “Saint or Sinner? -The Complicated Legacy of Senator Matthew Stanley Quay of Beaver, PA”  

November 19, 2022 – VIEW: “1802 Log House and the Fort McIntosh Garrison featured” on the cover of the Beaver Life Magazine Winter 2022 Issue.

October 3, 2022 – READ: “Documentary on Beaver politician to premiere.” via – Beaver County Times

June 9, 2022 – READ: “Beaver Area Heritage Foundation to start porch emblem program” by Nicholas Vercilla – Beaver County Times

May 4, 2022 – READ: “Sinner or Saint? Beaver museum asks Quay exhibit visitors to decide” by Scott Tady – Beaver County Times

2021

November 12, 2021 – READ: “Beaver County Genealogy & History Center celebrates 50th” by Scott Tady – Beaver County Times

September 16, 2021 – READ: “Hear spellbinding stories at the Beaver Tales outdoor event” by Scott Tady – Beaver County Times

September 13, 2021 – READ: “Perseverance an apt theme for storytellers at Beaver Tales” by Karen Kadilak – Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

September 8, 2021 – READ: “Feralcat plans special set at Beaver Station” by Scott Tady – Beaver County Times

September 1, 2021 – Garrison Day and Fort McIntosh Day are featured in a wonderful, and informative article by Karen Kadilak in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Subscription E-delivery edition.  READ: “Celebrations honor Beaver’s Old Guard”  

August 29, 2021 – READ: “Stinkin Cute Trees will pop up at Garrison Day in Beaver” by Scott Tady – Beaver County Times

August 11, 2021 – More exciting news and congratulations for our Garrison Day Show & Sale, voted WINNER as “Best Local Event” in the Beaver County Times 2021 “Best Of The Valley” readers poll.  After a 2020 hiatus, the Garrison Day Show & Sale (Arts, Crafts, Antiques, Food & Music) returns to the parks in Beaver Borough on Saturday, September 4th, 2021. 

August 11, 2021 – We are excited to announce that Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center is the WINNER in the “Best Wedding Venue” category of the Beaver County Times 2021 “Best Of The Valley” readers poll.  Congratulations to Venue Manager Leanne Rogowski, we are so proud of her and so appreciative of her dedication and hard work year-round. Thank you to all of our great friends, supporters, and to the voters.

Aug. 10, 2021 – For the fifth year in a row, Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center receives a WeddingWire Couples Choice Award based on actual user reviews. 

July 25, 2021 – Top 3 Finalists in the “Best of the Valley” – Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center has been chosen by the Beaver County Times‘ readers and the community as one of the top three finalists in the “Best Event Venue” and “Best Wedding Venue” categories.  The winner of each category will be announced at the Awards Gala on Thursday, August 5th at ‘The Fez’ in Hopewell Township, PA. 

July 23, 2021 – “Scott Tady: Granatis, Iris, Costello & Lone Bellow shined” – Beaver County Times

July 9, 2021 – The Heritage Foundation is ranked again in the Pittsburgh Business Times Top 25 Largest Pittsburgh area Museums and Attractions, as measured by admissions, and the largest in Beaver County. [ Link requires subscription ]

2020

Aug. 7, 2020 – The Pittsburgh Business Times again ranks the Heritage Foundation among the region’s 25 largest museum facilities, as measured by admissions, and the largest in Beaver County. [ Link  requires subscription]

Jan. 10, 2020 – For the forth year in a row, Beaver Station receives a WeddingWire Couples Choice Award based on actual user reviews.

2019

Attractive new plaques mounted at Beaver Station and the Heritage Museum

Nov. 6, 2019 – Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation Awards Historic Landmark Status to Beaver Area Heritage Foundation Sites

Oct. 13, 2019 – “Scott Tady: Beaver Station shows bring top talent in 2020” – Beaver County Times

Sept. 18, 2019 – “Get Out This Weekend: To Beaver Tales for good storytelling” – Beaver County Times

Sept. 10, 2019 – Several Heritage Foundation articles and features are published in the latest edition of Beaver Life Magazine.

Sept. 6, 2019 – The Heritage Museum has a table at Senator Vogel’s Senior Fair, held in the Golden Dome of Community College of Beaver County.

Aug. 27, 2019 – A new video is released on Facebook featuring the Heritage Museum’s new Fort McIntosh exhibit.

Aug. 9, 2019 – The Pittsburgh Business Times again ranks the Heritage Foundation among the region’s 20 largest museum facilities, as measured by admissions, and the largest in Beaver County. [link]

May 10, 2019 – “In Focus” – Beaver County Times

May 1, 2019 – “Military Invited to March in Parade” – Beaver County Times

March 20, 2019 – “Pittsburgh recognized as starting point for Lewis and Clark expedition” – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

Feb. 28, 2019 – The Heritage Foundation’s prestigious Phillips Restoration and Beautification Award is featured in the Spring edition of Beaver Life Magazine.

Jan. 8, 2019 – For the third year in a row, Beaver Station receives a WeddingWire Couples Choice Award based on actual user reviews.

2018

Dec. 9, 2018 – “Vanessa Campagna gets festive with Beaver Station show” – Beaver County Times

Nov. 29, 2018 – “Happy Holidays from the Beaver Train Station” – The Rob Pratte Pack Video

Nov. 5, 2018 – “Fort McIntosh celebrates 240th anniversary: Weekend encampment in Beaver brings Revolutionary War history to life” – Beaver County Times

Sept. 21, 2018 – Several articles about the Heritage Foundation and the “Beaver Tales” event are published in the latest issue of Beaver Life Magazine.

Aug. 30, 2018 – “Granati Bros. and Kiss Me Deadly among weekend shows” – Beaver County Times

Aug. 9, 2018 – “Take a tour through some of the region’s museums, large and small” – Pittsburgh Business Times\

June 19, 2018 – Beaver Station launches an interactive virtual tour in 3-D. [view]

June 1, 2018 – “Interpretive Panels Tell the History of Beaver County, Pennsylvania” – Pannier Graphics Blog

2017

Dec. 17, 2017 – “Cabin Fever concert series set for Beaver” – Beaver County Times

Nov. 1, 2017 – “A walk through Beaver County history” – Beaver County Times

Oct. 14, 2017 – “Petrochemical exhibit to spark dialogue in Beaver” – Beaver County Times

L-R: First Lady of Pennsylvania Frances Wolf, Preservation PA’s Nathaniel Guest and the Heritage Foundation’s David O’Leary, Mark Miner and Charles Copeland at the state museum in Harrisburg.

Oct. 12, 2017 – Pennsylvania First Lady Frances Wolf and Preservation Pennsylvania Chair Nathaniel Guest (2nd from left) present Beaver Station with a 2017 “Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Award” in the construction category. Accepting on behalf of the Heritage Foundation are, L-R: David O’Leary, Mark Miner and Charles Copeland.

Sept. 21, 2017 – “World Travelers Share Stories” – Beaver County Times

Sept. 19, 2017 – Judith Sutton of the Heinz History Center presents at the Heritage Foundation’s speaker’s series on “First Ladies of Western Pennsylvania.”

Sept. 12, 2017 – “Beaver Station wins statewide award for local preservation work” – Beaver County Times

Sept. 3, 2017 – “Beaver couple Roberta and John Good III restores circa-1880 home” – Beaver County Times

Granati Brothers rock the house

Aug. 12, 2017 – A free concert by the Granati Brothers and displays of vintage automobiles, Beatles and Pittsburgh sports memorabilia highlight a Heritage Foundation 50th anniversary celebration.

Aug. 2017 – A plaque is placed near the Belvedere at Beaver Station so visitors may learn of the history behind the beautiful structure.

Aug. 6, 2017 – “Party like it’s 1967 with the Granati Brothers in Beaver” – Beaver County Times

Aug. 2, 2017 – “Area teens build arbor at gardens in Beaver” – Beaver County Times

July 8, 2017 – The Allegheny Brass Band performs a free concert at the Belvedere at Beaver Station.

Concert in the Park, July 2017. Photo by Tommi Wagner

July 4, 2017 – The Heritage Foundation hosts its annual Concert in the Park in Irvine Square.

June 30, 2017 – “The Chairman” – “Good Business” – and “Beaver Magic” videos shot at Beaver Station by KDKA’s Rob Pratte

June 2017 – New signage is erected at the corner of Third Street and East End Avenue in Beaver featuring UPMC Health Plan, Heritage Valley Health System and the Spanos Group of Raymond James — whose above and beyond gifts support both the Beaver Area Heritage Museum and Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center.

Garrison Day draws thousands of visitors to downtown Beaver, sponsored and managed annually by the Heritage Foundation

June 10, 2017 – The always popular annual Garrison Day, managed by and benefiting the Heritage Foundation, draws an estimated 30,000 into Beaver’s central parks to enjoy hundreds of arts and crafts and antiques vendors, a variety of food and refreshments, and more.

June 9, 2017 – “Historic Cunningham House turret tops new Beaver structure” – Beaver County Times

June 5, 2017 – “Columbia Gas donates $2,000 to Beaver Area Heritage Museum” – Beaver County Times

June 2017 – The Heritage Museum opens a new exhibit, “Perception: Seeing Life Through the Eyes of Young Artists,” featuring the works of local high school students.

June 3, 2017 – Josie and Michael are the first couple to wed in the Belvedere at Beaver Station.

May 2017 – In a Facebook post, Heinz History Center CEO Andy Masich writes that the Heritage Museum is “one of the best small museums in Pennsylvania — well worth a visit.”

May 2017 – “We Can Do It! WWII Traveling Exhibit” – Western Pennsylvania History

Beaver Station glass artisans John and Peter Kelly

May 16, 2017 – At the Heritage Foundation’s speaker’s series, artisans John Kelly and Peter Boucher of Kelly Art Glass give a fascinating talk on how Beaver Station’s historic stained glass windows circa 1897 were painstakingly and expertly restored.

May 12, 2017 – “Historical video project teaches Dutch Ridge pupils about local history” – Beaver County Times

May 8, 2017 – “Beaver County History Celebration weekend a success for historic landmarks” – Beaver County Times

April 29, 2017 – Andrew Masich and Robert Stakeley of the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh visit Beaver  to formally kick off the Smithsonian-quality traveling “We Can Do It!” WWII exhibit with a tour of the Heritage Museum and Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center, and a reception with our leadership teams, volunteers and corporate sponsors.

Andy Masich in the “We Can Do It!” pose at the Heritage Museum reception. Photo by Beth Spence

April 26, 2017 – “Beaver museum presents WWII traveling exhibit” – Beaver County Times

April 22, 2017 – The “We Can Do It!” traveling WWII exhibit opens at the Heritage Museum, in partnership with the Heinz History Center, supported by the History Center’s sponsors Erie Insurance, the Institute of Museum and Library Services and The Eberly Foundation. The museum’s sponsors for 2017 include UPMC Health Plan, Strassburger McKenna Gutnich & Gefsky, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Heritage Valley Health System, Huntington Bank, Larson Design Group and the Spanos Group of Raymond James.

April 19, 2017 – “World War II exhibit makes first stop in Beaver” – Beaver County Times

April 18, 2017 – “Need help climbing your family tree? Genealogy center provides info” – Beaver County Times

March 24, 2017 – Moon Community Access TV airs a videotaped interview with Heritage Museum co-chair Ed McLaughlin and museum manager Stacey Ivol, hosted by Allison Eastham.

March 24, 2017 – “Traveling World War II exhibit comes to Pittsburgh” – WTAE-TV

March 24, 2017 – “Exhibit Honoring Pittsburgh War Contributions To Visit 18 Museums” – KDKA-TV

KDKA-TV’s DaveCrawley interviews museum co-chair Diana Neel at the Heinz History Center kickoff of the traveling “We Can Do It!” display

March 23, 2017 – “Cello Fury to Rock Beaver Station” – Beaver County Times

March 21, 2017 – At the Heritage Foundation’s speaker’s series, “The History Hounds” Rob Hilt, Rob Best and Gary Adams share many relics from Southwestern Pennsylvania, from “every war we have been involved in, including the Revolutionary War.” They also shared the research they conduct to identify historic sites, equipment and the retrieval and cleaning of finds.

Feb. 13, 2017 – Musicians Sean Garee and Paul McKinney wow the Beaver Station crowd with lively jazz music at the Wine & Chocolate Tasting.

Feb. 1, 2017 – “Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center” – YourBeaverCounty.com

Jan. 28, 2017 – The Heritage Museum’s vintage 1802 log house is pictured on the cover of the new 2017 Beaver County Visitors Guide, published by Beaver County Recreation & Tourism.

2016

Dec. 15, 2016 – The Heritage Foundation, Museum and Beaver Station are featured on the Huntington Business Spotlight hour on WBVP-WMBA Radio, hosted by Mike Romigh, featuring Huntington Bank Sr. VP Tom Nist and Heritage Foundation volunteer Mark Miner.

Dec. 14, 2016 – The first in a series of vintage Heritage Museum photographs is published on the Facebook page of Brighton Township in celebration of the municipality’s bicentennial.

Dec. 4, 2016 – “Railroad stations: The then and now of America” – Beaver County Times

Left to right: Dennis Davin, Robert Rice, William Fontana

June 14, 2016 – The $2.7 million Beaver Station Cultural and Event Center receives a prestigious statewide community revitalization award for “creating economic vitality” by the Harrisburg-based Pennsylvania Downtown Center. The “Townie Award,” in the category of asset enhancement, was presented by Dennis Davin, Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, and by William Fontana, Executive Director of the Center, at a dinner gala in Allentown. Beaver Station Co-chair Robert Rice accepted the award on behalf of the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation. In his remarks, Rice acknowledged Beaver Station colleagues in attendance David O’Leary and Mark Miner, who serve on the Station’s Operating Committee. More>>>

May 7, 2016 – “‘The Truth Lies Within’: Hopewell Township photographer showcases exhibit at Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center” – Beaver County Times

Columbia Gas’s Sarah Perry and Digger Dog (right) present a donation to Heritage Museum co-chairs Diana Neel and Ed McLaughlin for a yearlong silver sponsorship.

April 5, 2016 – In recognition of April as the ninth annual National Safe Digging Month, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania Inc., presents the Heritage Museum with a $2,000 contribution for the continual safety, celebration and preservation of local Beaver communities. “Columbia Gas has been part of Beaver neighborhoods since 1885,” said local Columbia Gas Operations Center Manager Mike Tice. “Both Columbia Gas and the Heritage Foundation are committed to the investment of the region’s future. Columbia Gas applauds the Heritage Foundation for its dedication in preserving the rich history of the neighborhoods we call home.” [ more ]

April 2, 2016 – “Whiskey tasting at Beaver Station” – Beaver County Times

March 26, 2016 – The Heritage Museum opens its 2016 exhibit, “All Aboard!” featuring a model railroad layout celebrating the community and business district of Beaver’s historic Third Street. The exhibit is sponsored by Strassburger McKenna Gutnick & Gefsky, Columbia Gas, Cottrill Arbutina Academy, Heritage Valley Health System, Huntington Bank, Larson Design Group and Eaton Corporation.

March 25, 2016 – “Program on Beaver Cemetery draws large crowd to Beaver Station” – Beaver County Times

2015

Nov. 29, 2016 – “Historian displays ’60-Year War’ at Beaver Station” – Beaver County Times

Leanne Rogowski at Beaver Station

Nov. 17, 2015 – The final speakers series event of the year but the first at Beaver Station will feature Kenneth Hoover, who will speak and share a display about 3 generations of his family who, over a 60-year period, sent soldiers to the French & Indian War, Revolutionary War and War of 1812. Free. Starts 7 p.m.

Nov. 11, 2015 – Leanne Rogowski, former Beaver County Times special events coordinator, is selected as venue manager for the newly renovated $2.7 million Beaver Station. In this role, she is charged with booking events such as wedding receptions and meetings and activities for corporate and non-profit organizations as well as managing social and cultural events for the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation. [ more ]

Sen. Elder Vogel speaks at Beaver Station reception

Nov. 3, 2015 – Beaver Station hosts a reception for a full house to thank the project’s top donors representing both the public and private sectors. Pennsylvania Senator Elder Vogel (47th District) makes remarks as do David O’Leary, Robert Rice and Mark Miner.

Oct. 24, 2015 – The Heritage Foundation holds its annual Charter Day Dinner for 117 guests at Beaver Station, the first formal dinner to be held at the cultural and events center and the first event to utilize the new catering kitchen for meals. David O’Leary and Robert Rice receive the Heritage Foundation’s prestigious annual Civic Leadership Award for extraordinary service in preserving local heritage for their work managing the Station project.

L-R: Midge Sefton, Heritage Foundation; Beaver Mayor Tom Hamilton; police officer Jim Degori and chief Dan Madgar; and Sarah Perry of Columbia Gas

Oct., 21, 2015 – Columbia Gas makes a $13,300 donation to support efforts by the Beaver Borough Police and Beaver Area Heritage Foundation to distribute free FirstAlert combination carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to Beaver County families in need this Halloween. Of approximately 1,200 detectors distributed statewide, nearly 400 will be available for pick-up at the local Beaver, Industry and Vanport Volunteer Fire Departments. [ more ]

Oct. 17, 2015 – At the invitation of the Washington (PA) Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Heritage Museum chair and Beaver Station Operating Committee member Mark Miner makes a presentation about Fort McIntosh, held at the Union Grille in Washington.

At the Beaver Station open house, left: Bob Smith, Tommi Wagner and Stacey Sullivan. Right, families mix and mingle in the newly renovated space.

Oct. 11, 2015 – With its interior now virtually complete, Beaver Station hosts its first open house for the public and draws some 600 guests on a Sunday afternoon. The public receives its first view of the new, specially commissioned, arched stained glass window bearing the logos of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad and the Heritage Foundation.

Sept. 25, 2015 – The widely acclaimed, seventh annual “Beaver Tales” storytelling event, held in the Beaver Area with fascinating storytellers, draws 600 attendees to a Friday night performance. This year’s returning storytellers were Lyn Ford and Len Cabral as well as new teller Michael Parent. [ more ]

June 17, 2015 – “Beaver Station donations, renovating moving along” – Beaver County Times [ more ] and also TimesOnline.com video, “Construction continues on the Beaver Station” [ view ]

June 17, 2015 – “Allegheny Foundation boosts effort to turn old Beaver train station into cultural center” – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review [ more ]

June 16, 2015 – The Heritage Foundation receives a $500,000 commitment from the Allegheny Foundation to complete Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center. Scheduled to open in September, the station will host its first public event over the Labor Day weekend. [ more

Volunteer Bob O’Dell at the Heritage Foundation tent on Garrison Day

June 13, 2015 – The Garrison Day Sale, sponsored by the Heritage Foundation as its single largest annual fundraising event, is held in Beaver’s central parks for many thousands of shoppers and curiosity seekers. Ethel Icenhour chairs this effort, which generates funds to support  Heritage Foundation’s myriad programs and events.

Current & former Beaver High champion softballers

June 3, 2015 – Members and coaches of Beaver Area High School’s 1998 section champion and 2014 WPIAL champion women’s softball teams celebrate with a “photo op” at the “Beaver Sports Then and Now” exhibit at the Heritage Museum. Among them: Casie Farkowsky,Tammy Pannuci ,Stephanie Galzerano, Jess Fischer, Butch Rousseau and Kacie Eckelberger.

May 25, 2015 – Retired U.S. Army Col. Robert E. “Ned” Reader II is the keynote speaker for the annual Memorial Day commemoration ceremony at Beaer Cemetery, following the annual parade in Beaver sponsored by the Heritage Foundation. Some in the community may remember his mother and stepfather, the late Anne and Ralph “Buss” Morton. [ more ]

April 18, 2015 – The Kool Kats Vintage Bike Club of Pittsburgh will gather from noon to 3 p.m. at the Heritage Museum. Members of the Snitger family, of Snitger’s Bicycle Shop, are expected to attend. [ more ]

‘Pedaling thru History’ exhibit opens

March 21, 2015 – The Heritage Museum re-opens for the year on the theme of “Pedaling thru History” — featuring iconic bicycles from the 1940s thru the ’80s along with a special tribute to Beaver’s own Snitger’s Bicycle Shop. [ more ]

March 20, 2015 – The Heritage Museum’s Millie Terlizzi is pictured in Beaver County Times, meeting with California University of Pennsylvania students who are producing videos about historical sites in Beaver County. [ more ]

March 18, 2015 – The Heritage Foundation’s Facebook page reaches a milestone 500 “likes” and climbing. Thank you for supporting our organization’s online face.

March 17, 2015 – Cindy Murphy, co-author of the book Images of America: Aliquippa presents at the Heritage Foundation speaker’s series meeting, sharing images illustrating the town’s unique story, with assistance from her husband and co-author Ed, out of view and manning the projector. Photo courtesy Valentine Brkich Jr.

Feb. 25, 2015 – Beaver County Times annual Progress Edition – “Many Firsts at Fort McIntosh” – writes the Times: “we explore the heritage of Beaver County and follow its path from the Native Americans who once lived along the river shores to the early settlers and innovators of so many industries through the age of steel to the now-dawning age of natural gas drilling. Through it all, we can see what makes Beaver County special and why it is heading for a revival.” [ more ]

Jan. 27, 2015 – Construction work continues at Beaver Station despite wintry temperatures and snow buildup. Earlier in the week, a worker fed plastic pipe into the chimney for the boiler exhaust system. Inside, To replicate the lighting fixtures used in the original station waiting room, planners rely on a 1906 photo of the P&LE Railroad’s sister station in Beaver Falls (built the same time with the same architect) and created a replica from scratch which now hangs in place for evaluation. The original fixture — called “gas up and electric down” — dates from a transitional period of time when gas lights were being phased out in favor of electric ones.

2014

Nov. 18, 2014 – Mary Frailey Calland, author of Consecrated Dust, presents at the Heritage Foundation speaker’s series at Trinity Church in Beaver. Her book portrays a family struggling through the Civil War in a way that transports readers back in time to the home front and battlefield, bringing to life a little known Civil War period in Pittsburgh’s history.

Oct. 18, 2014 – Awards are bestowed and year-in-review updates presented at the Heritage Foundation’s 47th annual Charter Day Dinner, held at the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton. Rhonda and Andrew Monte receive the annual Harry S. Phillips Award for historic preservation of their home at 694 Fourth Street, Beaver. Helen and Shawn Kissick receive the Phillips Award for historic preservation of their commercial property at 453 Third Street, Beaver, where they operate their business Free Spirit Acupuncture and Wellness Center. On behalf of his late father, Ralph “Buss” Morton, David Morton posthumously accepts the annual Civic Leadership Award for a lifetime of service to preserving local heritage, with previous winners including John McLaughlin (2013) and Robert Smith (2012). Beaver Station Steering Committee Chair David O’Leary presents a review of the year’s activity.

Left to right: award winners Andrew and Rhonda Monte; Shawn and Helen Kissick; and David Morton on behalf of his late father Buss. Far right, Nan Oliver and Ken Weyand study original blueprints from the Monte residence. Below: Beaver Station Steering Committee Chair David O’Leary presents a year in review.

Oct. 10, 2014 – The widely acclaimed “Beaver Tales” storytelling event — free to the public — returns to the Beaver Area with four all-new storytellers who weave their magic and share a sense of wonder and delight with audiences of all ages. This year the event featured acclaimed tellers Joanna Demarest, Antonio Rocha, Jon Spelman and Marsha Wong, who make visits to the Beaver Area Memorial Library, Beaver Area School District and State Street Elementary School in Ambridge. [ more ]

2014 Beaver Station construction, setting glass block windows (left) and decorative copper finials on the roof ridge

Sept. 26, 2014 – The Heritage Foundation awards $1.1 million in construction contracts for the renovation of its signature Beaver Station Cultural & Events Center. The contracts cover mechanical systems and major interior and exterior rehabilitation services. The successful bidders are Advanced Mechanical and Plumbing for the HVAC and plumbing, R E Yates Electric for electrical work and Arcon Contracting for the important interior and exterior finishing.  Construction is being managed by the L.C. Renninger Group of Beaver, with Pfaffmann + Associates serving as project architect. [ more ]

A standing-room only crowd hears Dr. Eileen English recount the origins of Monaca

Sept. 16, 2014 – “The Place Across from Big Beaver Creek: The Origin of Monaca, Pennsylvania” – the Heritage Foundation’s speaker’s series features a presentation by author, historian, and Monaca native Dr. Eileen Aiken English. Professor Emerita of California University of PA, she is a volunteer researcher for Old Economy Village, and her works include a two-volume history of Monaca for children; 1833 Residents of Phillipsburg; Demographic Directory of the Harmony Society; and Count Leon, the Man Who Cleft the Harmonie.

Aug. 17, 2014 – For the fourth straight year, as part of its commitment to community service, members of the Rotary Club of Beaver are serving as volunteer greeters during the exhibit season. Today’s Rotary representatives: Paul and Alicia Davis.

July 7, 2014 – To celebrate our nation’s independence, the annual Concert in the Park is held in Irvine Square, featuring local performers in a throwback to a more Norman Rockwell era, sponsored by the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation.

July 3, 2014 – Having reached 84 percent of its fundraising goal, a “Station Celebration!” is held at Beaver Station for several hundred supporters, enjoying great food, beverages and entertainment, as well as tours showing progress along with exciting plans for coming months.

May 28, 2014 – State Rep. Rob Matzie announces that the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has awarded a $50,000 grant to the Beaver Station project. [ more ]

Author Mary Kegley	Sisters’ Saga book

May 20, 2014 – Mary Kegley of Wytheville, VA, co-author of Sisters Saga with Beaver’s Nan Oliver, will present about her book documenting the 19th century Scott and McKee families. The work comprises 200 letters written by the sisters McKee in Wytheville to their sister Nancy Scott of Beaver between 1836 and 1883, and was researched in the permanent collections of the Beaver Area Heritage Museum. Trinity Anglican Church, 7 p.m. Signed copies will be available for purchase.

May 4, 2014 – KDKA-AM Radio talk show host Rob Pratte interviews Heritage Museum volunteers Beth Spence and Mark Miner about the “Beaver Collects” exhibit, Beaver Station, Michael Baker Corporation archive and elementary school student field trips.

Beth Spence and Mark Miner talk about the museum on WBVP-WMBA Radio

April 7-8, 2014 – Heritage Museum board chair Mark Miner makes presentations about the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation and Museum at the annual luncheon meetings of the Heritage Valley Beaver Auxiliary and the monthly luncheon of the Beaver Valley Christian Women’s Club.

April 2, 2014 – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – “Beaver County Heritage Museum to Catalog Michael Baker Corp. Photos, Film” – quoting Mark Miller of Michael Baker Corporation and Mark Miner of the Heritage Museum.

March 27, 2014 – Heritage Museum volunteers Beth Spence and Mark Miner are interviewed on the “Huntington Helps” radio show on WBVP-AM and WMBA-AM, hosted by John Nuzzo and sponsored by Huntington Bank, about the museum’s new free exhibit, “Beaver Collects.” The bank is a silver sponsor of the museum’s yearlong display.

March 24, 2014 – Michael Baker International, Pittsburgh’s largest engineering firm, announces its joint effort with the Heritage Museum to collect, transfer and catalogue the entirety of Baker’s historic materials collection involving tens of thousands of print photographs, photographic negatives and 35mm slide photographs; 8mm and 16mm film on reels; project-specific microfiche dating to 1955; and internal and external company publications such as newsletters, magazines and technical journals. It also includes historical records as well as reprints of industry trade articles that feature the company, highlight a company project or celebrate employee achievements. Other features include personal effects of the company’s late founder Michael Baker Jr., including his office desk, large globe, photo portrait, books from his personal library and much more. [ more ]

Congratulations to Matt and Mary (Palmer) Frioni on their recent marriage with best wishes for a long and happy life together. They celebrated with a photo shoot at the Heritage Museum log house despite a little snow. J.Lageman Photography

March 24, 2014 – Beaver County Times – “”Area Residents’ Collections Showcased at Beaver Museum” – feature article calls the exhibit “nostalgia, whimsy and fun” and quotes museum trustee and exhibit curator Eileen Rillo, artifact lenders Pat Stewart and Mary Ellen Medich, and mentions former trustee John McLaughlin Jr. [ more ]

L-R: FNB’s Yvonne Connor and Greg Conrad and the BAHF’s Bob Smith and David O’Leary

March 20, 2014 – In a presentation made on-site, First National Bank of Pennsylvania recently made a $15,000 commitment to the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation for its Beaver Station project through the Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) offered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development. [ more ]

March 19, 2014 – Sewickley Herald – “Sweetwater Art Classes Expanding into Beaver County” quoting Beaver Station Steering Committee Chair David O’Leary and Alice Kern of the Beaver County Genealogy and History Center. [ more ]

Bridgewater’s Underground Railroad stop

March 11, 2014 – Beaver County Times – “The Model Maker” – feature article about model car maker Howard Taylor, mentioning the museum’s “Beaver Collects” exhibit. [ more ]

March 18, 2014 – The Heritage Foundation’s free speaker’s series presentation features a presentation and video by the New Brighton Historical Society about the history of the Underground Railroad in Beaver County and specifically the Dunlap Mansion in Bridgewater.

Pez candy dispensers – part of “Beaver Collects“

March 15, 2014 – Beaver’s award-winning Heritage Museum will open for the season with its all-new, free display, “Beaver Collects.” The year-long exhibit will highlight unique and eclectic treasures of local collectors from right here in our own neighborhoods, and change every few months. The opening display features a collection of teddy bears inspired by the Teddy Bear Museum in Naples, Florida; a colorful variety of Pez candy dispensers; and handmade sock monkeys.  [ more ]

“In the News” archive – 2011 to 2013

“In the News” archive – 2002 to 2010