Luzerne County Historical Society | Preserving Heritage & Inspiring Learning in Wilkes-Barre

The Luzerne County Historical Society, a nonprofit organization founded in 1858 and headquartered in Wilkes-Barre, PA, is the oldest county historical society in Pennsylvania. With a mission to connect the community to its rich and diverse history, the organization offers a wide range of engaging exhibits, lectures, events, and guided tours that explore the people, stories, and milestones that have shaped the region. Through its museum, library, and historic sites, the society invites visitors to experience the legacy of Luzerne County across centuries.

Extensive Collections & Educational Programming

The Society maintains an extensive archive of over 200,000 artifacts, documents, and published works. Its downtown Wilkes-Barre museum and library house collections ranging from Native American artifacts and Revolutionary War memorabilia to materials from the region’s industrial coal mining era. These resources offer a comprehensive, well-preserved narrative of the county’s growth, challenges, and cultural evolution. The organization also serves as an educational hub, offering research assistance and programming for students, historians, and lifelong learners.

Stewardship of Historic Homes

In addition to its downtown facilities, the organization owns and preserves two significant historic homes: the Nathan Denison House in Forty Fort and the Swetland Homestead in Wyoming. These heritage sites provide immersive experiences into 18th and 19th century life in Northeastern Pennsylvania, hosting seasonal tours, demonstrations, and community events that bring history to life.

Luzerne County Historical Society preserves the past while educating and engaging the public through exhibits, archives, and historic sites throughout the Wilkes-Barre area.