The Berks Heritage Council is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Organized in the summer of 1990 as a consortium for combining marketing efforts and for the exchange of information and ideas, the Council was originally called the Berks County Museum Council. Initially, 11 founding members worked together to promote public interest and awareness of Berks County’s historic culture. Aided by a $10,000 grant from the Berks County Board of Commissioners, the Council was able to produce a colorful brochure and provide public relations. Today, the Berks Heritage Council has 38 members representing the best heritage sites, societies and museums in Berks County. Each month, one or two members can share information about their organization on BCTV to advertise upcoming special events and to encourage patronage of their hidden treasures.
For the past 25 years, members of the Berks Heritage Council have been dedicated to the interpretation and presentation of the diverse history and heritage of Berks County. As membership in the Council increases, people of all ages have the opportunity to enjoy the rich culture our sites have to offer. Berks County is fortunate to have such a varied assortment of museums, sites and historical societies, each with their own distinctive and unique collection of relics and artifacts. Please consider visiting these fine organizations this summer, as every location has something special to offer. A listing of sites with hours of operation can be found by visiting www.berksheritagecouncil.org or by calling 610-375-4085.
A special dinner for members of the Council has been planned for Sept. 25th to commemorate this anniversary. In addition, a bus trip to Washington, D.C. will take place on Oct. 10th. This sightseeing fundraiser focuses on the 12 free museums located on the National Mall and a tour of the Capital for people choosing this option. Details about the bus trip and contact information can be found on the Council’s website.
