Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center Events
2024 Summer Camp Guide
2024 Summer Camp Guidep

Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center

Explore the history, art, genealogy, and spirituality of the Perkiomen Valley in southeastern Pennsylvania

Upcoming Events

July 1, 2024 to August 11, 2024
Tues-Fri 10am-4pm; Sun 1-4pm
Tribes: An International Quilt Exhibition
The Heritage Center is thrilled to be chosen for the second year as the only U.S. venue for the internationally traveling quilt show from the European Patchwork Meeting. This year's exhibit features thirty quilts interpreting the theme of "Tribes," or common elements a social group might share. Thanks to sponsors Byers' Choice, Ltd., the Keystone Quilters, and Kay Bachai.
July 1, 2024 to November 10, 2024
Tues-Fri 10am-4pm; Sun 1-4pm
Elephants, the Michelin Man, and Sunbonnet Sue: 20th-Century Pictorial Embroidered Quilts
Among the most cheerful and charming quilts made in the 20th century were white with red, blue, green, or multicolored embroidered images-some realistic and lovely, others cartoonish and silly. These quilts were hugely popular across the country from the 1910s into the 1930s and 100 years later these newly minted antiques survive in considerable numbers. Catch this exabit while here to see the international quilt show Tribes.
July 19, 2024 to July 21, 2024
Fri and Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 1-4pm
Passport to History Weekend
Join us for the opening weekend of "Next Stop, Pennsburg: A History of Model Trains" and a variety of programs for different interests, such as exhibit scavenger hunts, crafts on Saturday and a concert on Sunday by mezzo-soprano Ann Fogler. All free.
July 20, 2024 (Saturday) 10am-2pm
Make & Take Crafts Day: Paper Quilt Crafting
Look at both traditional and modern quilts and then create your own out of paper, while letting it tell a piece of your story.

These programs are free of charge, and there is no registration needed. Just drop into the Stauffer Education Room. Fun for all ages! Younger children may need a parent or guardian to assist them.
July 21, 2024 (Sunday) 2:00-2:30pm
Frauenliebe und leben Performance
Join us for an exciting chance to hear a celebrated mezzo-soprano from Montgomery County, Ann Folger, perform Robert Schumann's Frauenliebe und leben, accompanied by Vincent Trovato. This half-hour performance is part of the Passport to History weekend from July 19 to July 21 and is free.
August 14, 2024 (Wednesday) 12-1pm
Ralph Berky: Butter Valley Poet and Naturalist
Ralph W. Berky (1890-1977) was known in the Butter Valley area as "The Birdman." He was an eccentric figure walking the Valley in a long overcoat that had pockets filled with birdseed. His love of nature was evident in his hand illustrated postcards inscribed with his poetry. Pastor Bob Gerhart will discuss Ralph's unusual life and contributions to Butter Valley.

Program in-person or via Zoom. Register by emailing info@schwenkfelder.org or calling 215-679-3103. FREE
August 25, 2024 (Sunday) 1-3pm
Genealogy for Beginners
Looking to learn about your ancestors in your family tree? We can help by sharing some resources and getting you started on your journey into the past. Free of charge but please register by calling 215-679-3103 or emailing Meredith Reinhart at meredith@schwenkfelder.org.

About Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center

The Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center offers visitors of all ages ways to learn about life in this area and about the history of the Schwenkfelders. Schwenkfelders were a Protestant group heavily persecuted in Europe that immigrated here in the early 1700s seeking religious freedom.

In our museum, visitors will see looms and lathes, paintings and plows, chests and cider presses - all various household furnishings and farm tools from the 1700s through the early 1900s.

Researchers in the library can trace their genealogy, and scholars will be amazed by 16th century religious manuscripts and printed materials in the collection. The museum and library are open without admission fees.

Besides exhibits, programs range from brown bag lectures on local and Schwenkfelder history to summer camps for kids, with the ever-popular spring Penn Dry Goods Market focusing on textiles.

Photos

Schwenkfelder Library & Heritage Center Photos