The Bedford County Historical Society operates the Pioneer Library, the county's most extensive collection of historical and genealogical materials. The society's Pioneer Library serves as a repository for all types of historical information and welcomes donations of materials.

We provide the resources and facilities for a broad spectrum of historical and genealogical research with knowledgeable staff to assist.

We also sponsor numerous programs, activities, exhibits and seminars throughout the year to highlight areas or events of historical significance to the county and surrounding regions.

Book Signing - May 12, 2012

Judy Coopey will be on hand at 2:00pm on May 12 to sign her new book, "Waterproof," which details the events of the 1889 Johnstown Flood. Click here for more details.

Return to Summer Hours

The Bedford County Historical Society has resumed normal Summer hours. We will be open week days including Mondays from 9:00am to 4:00pm and on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00am to 2:00pm.

Quilt Show Challenge

The Pioneer Quilt Challenge for the 2012 Quilt Show and Sale in October will be "The War of 1812: the Star Spangled Banner." For details click here.

Antique Postcards CD now available

The Bedford County Historical Society has for sale a CD with images of over 175 antique postcards showing scenes from Bedford County.For details click here.

Croyle Family Book now available at BCHS

The Bedford County Historical Society has for sale the book, My Search for the Truth, by Wallace Croyle. This book is sold only at BCHS. For details click here.

Garn Family Book now available at BCHS

The Bedford County Historical Society has for sale the book, The Garn Family including Carn, Garnes, Garns and Gern, by Lynn E. Garn, Ph.D. This book is sold only at BCHS. For details click here. After the book was published, additional information became available which was documented in an addendum that may be downloaded by clicking here.

5 Year Commemoration of the Civil War

In April 2011, the Bedford County Historical Society and other historical organizations in Bedford County began a commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. Over the next 5 years until 2015 there will be re-enactments, lectures, exhibits, and events to commemorate our ancestors that fought to preserve the Union. Click here for more details. As a part of this commemoration, the Bedford County Historical Society had a special medal produced to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the war. To see pictures of the medal or to purchase one, click here.