Many folks around Harrisburg are very interested in local history.
I know this because I’m contacted often to try to answer questions about this or that historical tidbit. Why, just last month, I was asked for information on a statue in Reservoir Park, an obelisk at Italian Lake and an old building in south Harrisburg.
Sometimes, I have the answers, sometimes I don’t. But, when I don’t, I know who to call.
In Harrisburg, we’re lucky to have several people who are founts of local historical knowledge. These include (but are not limited to) David Morrison, Jeb Stuart, Calobe Jackson Jr. and Ken Frew. I’ve referred folks to them repeatedly, and their names have appeared again and again in the pages of TheBurg.
These local historians have served our area for decades. We should be grateful for their deep knowledge of our past, which, as Harrisburg changes and evolves, informs our present and guides our future.
This month, I also mention local history in this space because Historic Harrisburg Association recently released its “Preservation Priorities,” an annual list of our area’s endangered buildings and structures.
For 2025, HHA’s “top five” list starts with the Broad Street Market then continues with William Penn High School, Balsley House, the Lochiel Hotel and the Riverside and Paxton firehouses. The list includes about two dozen other structures on a “watch list.”
“This is how we alert the entire community and potential buyers and developers of their opportunities for preserving these buildings,” said Morrison, HHA’s executive director.
Indeed, bringing these structures into the public conversation is a vital first step in historic preservation. “That has proven to be very effective,” Morrison added.
Maybe you have a desire (and a budget!) to carry out a historic restoration project? If so, please visit the HAA website and/or our online story to view the full list of Preservation Priorities.
With that, I welcome readers to our March issue, which is focused on some of the many wonderful nonprofit organizations in our area. I’ve already mentioned one (Historic Harrisburg) but turn these pages to learn about many others and the good work they’re doing.
Remember, most nonprofits need your help as a volunteer, board member and/or donor. So, if you can, please give generously to the organization of your choice.
Lawrance Binda
Publisher/Editor
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