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Researching your family’s origins can be a rewarding journey when you uncover clues revealing the mysterious lives of your ancestors. The History Room and Museum at the Knoxville Public Library houses thousands of items, each with a story to tell. Find where the family farm was on insurance maps, read hand written histories in family bibles, or peruse church, cemetery & undertaker records searching for distant relatives.

This unique library was incorporated in 1956 as a charitable organization and specifically included a provision for a local historical museum in it’s Articles of Incorporation. The expansive collection at 112 East Main Street has been compiled from numerous sources but initially began as a small lending library at the Knoxville Presbyterian Church in 1888.

This priceless resource is available to anyone interested in local history. Assistance is available simply by inquiring or making an appointment. Library volunteer, Gene Seelye is a treasure trove of knowledge and generously assists researchers. Any story detail or name passed down the generations can launch an exciting journey of self-discovery.

With clues in hand, travel up the decadent Queen Anne staircase to the historical museum to continue your search. There you will find 3 rooms full of local artifacts from Cowanesque Valley area’s rich history. Civil war memorabilia, Indian arrow heads and evidence of long gone industry will bring the past alive. The children will especially enjoy the butter churn, Native American mortar and pestle, woodworking tools and candle-making equipment.

As you carve out a place for your family in history, it is satisfying to know you are preserving the past for future generations of storytellers. It is easy to see why Americans are enamored with geneology when you are able to see this local history well preserved and documented firsthand. The Knoxville Public Library offers what the internet and genetic testing cannot- a tangible connection with your own unique lineage and friendly assistance along the way.

The library and museum are open:
Monday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am – 6:30 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Knoxville Public Library
112 E Main Street
Knoxville, PA 16928
814-326-4448

Visit their official website here.