Armstrong County Historical Society

06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day!!

Let’s remininence a bit and saunter on Market Street in Kittanning…

What era?
Recognize any storefronts?
Ah, those automobiles…
There’s the courthouse up yonder!
Brick street?

Photo courtesy: Leister Studio (Kittanning)

Founded in 1905, Leister Studio became one of Kittanning’s most enduring photography businesses, serving the community for more than six decades under the leadership of the Leister family. From its early Market Street location to its longtime North McKean Street studio, Leister Studio documented generations of Armstrong County residents before closing its doors after 61 years of operation.

Armstrong County Historical Society
Want to become a member to help support local history preservation? Contact us!

06/18/2026

🚂 History is rolling through Pennsylvania this July!

For railroad enthusiasts, history buffs, photographers, and anyone who appreciates American engineering, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The legendary Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, the world’s largest operating steam locomotive, is making its first-ever journey across much of the East Coast as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.

Built in 1941, this massive steam giant stretches 133 feet long, weighs more than 1.2 million pounds, and has become one of the most iconic locomotives ever built.

Pennsylvania will host several public viewing opportunities, including:
🚂 Reading – July 2
🚂 Philadelphia – July 4–5
🚂 Lebanon – July 7
🚂 Lewistown & Altoona – July 8
🚂 Altoona Display – July 9–10
🚂 Horseshoe Curve, Cresson & Leetsdale – July 11

(some locations require tickets or have limited access).

Whether you’re hoping to hear the unmistakable whistle echo through the valley, capture a dramatic photograph, or simply witness a remarkable piece of living history in motion, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

📷 Bring your camera. Bring your family. Bring your appreciation for the machines and people that helped build America.

Check the official schedule before traveling, as some stops are designated No Public Access and others have specific viewing instructions or shuttle requirements.

Union Pacific connects 23 western U.S. states, providing safe and efficient railroad transportation, freight shipping and logistics.

06/17/2026

Have you ever wondered why you see 1727 on Kittanning signs, banners, and even the Kittanning Flag?

The answer takes us back nearly 300 years.

The 1727 Flag, created by Downtown Kittanning, Inc., celebrates the earliest documented existence of the Lenape (Delaware) village of Kittanning, known as Kithanink, which was established along the banks of the Allegheny River by at least 1727. It is a tribute to the rich Indigenous history that predates the modern borough.

The flag’s simple but meaningful design tells a story:

🔴 The bold red field creates a distinctive community identity.

⚪ The white field highlights the year 1727, honoring Kittanning’s earliest recorded history.

🌊 The three flowing waves represent the Allegheny River, the lifeblood of our community that has connected people, commerce, and culture for generations.

While 1727 is not the incorporation date of the Borough of Kittanning, it serves as a reminder that this place has a much deeper story—one rooted in the Lenape people and the natural landscape that continues to shape our community today.

As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and reflect on our local history, the 1727 Flag stands as a symbol of pride, place, and the enduring story of Kittanning.

#1727

06/16/2026

We’re Opening the Door to Armstrong County’s Story.

Have you visited the Armstrong County Historical Society’s new website yet?

We’ve created a place where history is easy to explore whether you’re researching your family tree, looking for local landmarks, planning a museum visit, discovering upcoming events, or simply curious about the people and places that shaped our community.

Over the next several weeks, we’ll be sharing screenshots and highlights from different sections of the website, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the resources available with just a few clicks. From genealogy and preservation projects to museum exhibits and educational programs, there’s something for everyone.

We invite you to take a few minutes to explore, learn something new, and reconnect with the stories that make Armstrong County unique.

🌐 Visit us today: www.historicarmstrong.org

Because preserving history isn’t just about the past! It’s about connecting our community, one story at a time.

06/15/2026

A few weeks ago, the Armstrong County Historical Society was pleased to welcome a group from Progressive Workshop of Armstrong County for a day of exploration and discovery.

Our museum curator enjoyed sharing the stories, artifacts, and history that help tell the story of Armstrong County, while visitors spent time exploring exhibits throughout the museum. One of the highlights was seeing Armstrong County’s “Echoes of Armstrong” bell, part of the statewide America250PA public art project celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary. The beautifully painted bell showcases many of the places, traditions, and moments that make our county unique.

We are grateful for the many local businesses, organizations, and community groups that choose to spend time with us. Partnerships like these help strengthen our community and remind us that preserving and sharing local history is something we can all enjoy together.

Thank you to Progressive Workshop of Armstrong County for visiting and for allowing us to be part of your day! 🔔❤️

Photo Credits: Progressive Workshop of Armstrong County, Inc.

06/14/2026

We invite the community to visit our Museum and enjoy a nostalgic trip through Armstrong County’s history.

06/14/2026

Today, we celebrate Flag Day! 🇺🇸

06/11/2026

🚧 Progress is happening at the Armstrong County Historical Society!

This week marks an exciting step forward as work begins on transforming another part of our campus.

A special thank you goes to Myers Demolition & Excavation LLC for their professionalism and hard work during the demolition of a recently acquired building that will soon become part of our growing historical campus.

We would also like to recognize Senator Joe Pittman for his assistance in helping secure this property, creating an opportunity for the Historical Society to expand and continue preserving Armstrong County’s rich heritage for future generations.

Projects like this don’t happen without the support of an entire community. We are grateful to the local officials who helped with permitting, our neighbors for their encouragement, and our Board of Directors and our fabulous volunteers who continue to invest their time and energy into preserving Armstrong County’s history.

Every improvement brings us one step closer to creating new opportunities to share our stories, artifacts, and heritage with future generations.

Stay tuned as we reveal our plans for this newly opened space. We can’t wait to bring you along on the journey!

Thank you, Armstrong County, for believing in local history and supporting its future. ❤️🏛️

06/09/2026

🎺🇺🇸 Keep the celebration going in Kittanning!

After cheering on the Kittanning Firemen’s Band during their special Send-Off at the Armstrong County Courthouse, make plans to continue your day with a visit to the Armstrong County Historical Society Museum.

Saturday, June 13, 2026
Special Hours: Noon–3:00 PM

Take a step back in time and explore the stories that shaped Armstrong County. Browse fascinating exhibits featuring historical musical memorabilia, local artifacts, photographs, and collections that celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make our community unique.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a history enthusiast, or visiting for the day’s festivities, this special museum opening is a great opportunity to discover something new and connect with our county’s rich heritage.

Admission is welcome to all. Bring your family, invite a friend, and spend part of your afternoon celebrating both our history and the music that continues to bring our community together.

Armstrong County Historical Society Museum
300 N. McKean Street
Kittanning, PA
Open Saturday, June 13 | Noon–3:00 PM