About
Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society, founded in 1958, preserves and interprets the culture and context of Mennonite-related faith communities connected to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. We seek to be a gathering place where people can explore stories, ideas, and legacy—for themselves and with each other.
The museum, book and gift shop, and library & archives are open to the public Tuesday through Friday, first and third Saturdays, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. We offer classes in traditional folk arts and Pennsylvania German Dialect several times a year.
Our location beside Tanger Outlet Center on Lincoln Highway East, draws shoppers to regular rare and used book auctions, the annual Bookworm Frolic and a seasonal Show & Sale of Pennsylvania German Folk Art. All facilities are fully accessible.
In addition, the Society hosts a broad array of special events at locations throughout Lancaster County.
- Quarterly meetings include performances, presentations and panel discussions on timely topics related to Pennsylvania German and Mennonite history and culture.
- The January Annual Music Night showcases a diverse array of local and Mennonite talent
- Each year, an influential Mennonite speaker addresses the Lancaster County community at the Society’s spring Banquet
- For more than 30 years, the Lancaster Family History Conference has been a touchstone for genealogists and family historians
- In collaboration with the 1719 Hans Herr House & Museum, the Society presents “Lancaster Roots,” a year-long schedule of concerts, classes, festivals, field trips, exhibits and sales, online at LancasterRoots.org
Join today and discover the benefits of an LMHS membership.
Mission and Vision
Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society preserves and interprets the culture and context of Anabaptist-related faith communities connected to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. We seek to be a gathering place where people can explore stories, ideas, and legacy—for themselves and with each other.
Values
Preservation—As a library, archives and interpretive center, we serve as a repository for Anabaptist-related books, papers, and artifacts.
Education—We facilitate exploration of the diverse historical backgrounds and culture of Mennonite-related groups through exhibits, storytelling, field trips, seminars, and inspirational programs.
Inclusion—We invite all people to discover the diversity of Mennonite history and culture.
Accessibility— We aspire to make the Society’s resources available and understandable to all.
Relationships—We seek to connect individuals, Mennonite-related
churches, educational institutions, and relevant community
organizations.
Integrity—We attempt to work with trustworthiness, humility and a generous spirit.
Accountability—We commit to seeking direction from the church, our members and contributors.
Self-Care—We encourage the growth and fulfillment of each board member, staff member, and volunteer.
Faith—We follow Christ in daily life.