Celebrating Our Heritage: Historical Society Honored with Ambassador in Tourism Award

On Friday, June 14, 2024, the Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County was honored at the Indiana Mall by the Indiana County Tourist Bureau with an Ambassador in Tourism Award.  The evening had great food, fun, and socialization with everyone sharing what makes the Historical Society a great asset to our community.

Laura Herrington, Executive Director of the Indiana County Tourist Bureau, shared a little about the Historical Society, and how it generates tourism by teaching all visitors to Indiana County about our rich history and heritage.  Jonathan Bogert, Executive Director of the Historical and Genealogical Society of Indiana County, accepted the award on behalf of the Society and shared his thoughts on the past, present, and future of the Historical Society.

Bogert reflected that the Historical Society continues today because of the efforts of those that have come before us - reminding the audience of the humble beginnings of the Society from the early days of a few friends in the living room of Blaine and Francis Helman.  As the Society grew, so did the need for space, moving to the Library, then Wilson Hall, then the Silas M. Clark House sharing space with the Tourist Bureau, and finally obtaining both the Armory and the Clark House.  We continue today because of the foundation that has been laid before us, and our job today is to continue to build upon that foundation for the future generations.

Following Bogert’s remarks, he shared a new promotional video featuring the Historical Society, which will be used in future marketing.

The Program Committee designed a nice little display, to give attendees a taste of what the Historical Society has to offer - from coal mining artifacts to old photos of Indiana County.  If you have not had the opportunity yet, check out the Historical Society’s Facebook page to see old photos from our collection.

The Historical Society wishes to extend its appreciation to the Indiana County Tourist Bureau for this honor, and to all our members, donors, and community members who support the Historical Society in its mission.  If you would like to visit the Historical Society, please visit us during our business hours, Tuesday-Friday 9-4 and Saturday 10-3.  Additionally, consider becoming a member and show your support or donate to help us continue to preserve, collect, and educate the public about the history of Indiana County.