Cumberland County Historical Society

06/03/2026

Did you know Carlisle once played a major role in the bicycle industry? 🚲

Founded in 1917, Carlisle Tire & Rubber became the largest maker of bicycle tires in the western hemisphere thanks to its invention of the seamless inner tube. From the 1950s on, the company was known for manufacturing specialty tires, bicycle tubes, and automotive inner tubes before relocating to Franklin, Tennessee in 1987.

On National Bike Day, we celebrate Cumberland County’s connection to cycling history and the industries that helped keep America moving.

Visit our museum to see this and learn more about Cumberland County.

06/02/2026

On Saturday, June 6, the Cumberland County Historical Society will be closed as we join family and friends in celebrating the life of our dear friend, Ann Hoffer.

The Kramer family warmly invites the community to gather in Ann’s honor at the Carlisle Country Club, 1242 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (remarks at 11:30 a.m.).

Please come and enjoy food, drinks, music, and the opportunity to share memories and stories of Ann—a cherished friend and a true pillar of our society. Her dedication, generosity, and lasting impact on our community will never be forgotten.

We hope you will join us in celebrating a remarkable life.

06/02/2026

Students and teachers at Penn School gathered in the school yard and playground for Tag Day festivities filled with games, activities, and community fun. Moments like these remind us how schools have long been at the heart of Cumberland County communities and childhood memories. 📚🏫

Photo: Penn School – Tag Day, May 28, 1951.

06/01/2026

Give the gift of life and help save lives by donating blood with the American Red Cross on June 22 at Todd Hall. Every donation can make a difference for patients in need, and your support helps ensure blood is available when emergencies happen. ❤️🩸

Join us and be a hero in our community — one donation at a time.

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/donation-time?zipSponsor=cchs&driveType=all

05/30/2026

Please note that our office will be closed on Saturday, June 6, so that our staff may pay their respects to our longtime member, former Board of Trustees member, and dear friend, Ann Hoffer.

We also want to share that the lecture on Pennsylvania Orphan Schools will be rescheduled to Saturday, August 1. We appreciate your understanding during this time.

Please join us in keeping Ann’s family and loved ones in your thoughts.

  Members Free RSVP Below / Non-Members $5 – Register Here RSVP Here:

05/29/2026

Join us tomorrow to celebrate 275 years of Carlisle with 175 Photos for Carlisle’s 275th!

Our own Merri Lou Schaumann and Jennifer Patel will present Sidewalks Through the Centuries, a fascinating video presentation featuring side-by-side historic and modern photographs captured from the same vantage points, on May 30, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 inside our Todd Hall at the museum. Take a walk-through time and see how Carlisle has evolved over nearly three centuries.

https://www.historicalsociety.com/.../175-photos-for.../

05/27/2026

Happy National Hamburger Day! 🍔

Cumberland County has no shortage of great spots to grab a delicious burger. From classic diners to hometown favorites, everyone has their go-to order and favorite place.

Tell us — where’s your favorite place to get a hamburger? 👇🍟

05/26/2026

Becoming a member of the Cumberland County Historical Society means helping preserve the stories, places, and artifacts that make our community unique. Your membership supports exhibits, educational programs, archives, historic preservation efforts, and special events that connect people of all ages to Cumberland County’s rich history.

As a member, you become part of a community that values local heritage and ensures future generations can learn from and enjoy our shared past. History belongs to everyone — and your support helps keep it alive.

https://www.historicalsociety.com/support/membership/

05/25/2026

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courage, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

As we gather with family and friends this Memorial Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of those who gave everything for our nation.

Meeting House Springs Cemetery, photographed on May 14, 1971. Obj id 26A-28-04

05/24/2026

Each year, our dear friend Lisa Brousse graciously leads a tour of Ashland Cemetery, sharing the stories and history that make this special place so meaningful to our community. This past Sunday, she was joined by Chaplain Paul Herring of the 149th PA Civil War Regiment, who offered a moving prayer at the conclusion of the tour.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lisa and Rev. Herring for their time, dedication, and passion in providing such a meaningful experience for all who attended.