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Mission Statement

"The mission of the Haverford Township Historical Society is to protect, preserve and promote the history of our community and to sustain its cultural heritage for future generations through educational programs, accessible archives and site preservation."

The Haverford Township Historical Society was formed in 1939 to promote and sustain interest in the history of our community. With the specific function of preserving property, documents and information of historic value pertaining to Haverford Township, the Haverford Township Historical Society has played a critical role in local preservation efforts.

The Society saved, rebuilt and furnished the 1710 Lawrence Cabin, now located on Karakung Drive in Powder Mill Valley Park, and entered into a formal agreement with Haverford Township to reshape, maintain and administer Nitre Hall (1810) and the Federal School (1797). In these historic sites, award winning educational programs are designed and staffed by the Historical Society. Visitors may also enjoy these local treasures during open houses, special events and by appointment.

6th Annual Heritage Festival (2012)

First Sunday in June

June 3, 2012, 11 am to 4 pm

Along Karakung Drive near Nitre Hall (click for driving directions.)

(Click HERE for SEPTA directions)

It’s our sixth year and we’re ready to present the best Heritage Festival yet! Join us in welcoming Summer on the first Sunday of June to enjoy one of Haverford Township’s favorite family events.

(event is RAIN or SHINE)

Interested in simply being a Heritage Festival Sponsor? Get us your information by May 7th, and get your name or business's name on the banner! Email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information on how to donate!

Open House/Tours of Lawrence Cabin and Nitre Hall
Historical re-enactors and tours of historic sites;
- Athletic Base Ball Club of Philadelphia team members with hands-on demos
- Ned Hector, local Revolutionary War re-enactor and historian
- Blacksmith
- Colonial candle making
- *NEW* Civil War living historians, the 61st New York Volunteer Infantry
- members of Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation and demos
- Members of Newtown Square Historical Preservation Society playing as the "Newtown Squares"
- Re-enactors from 1696 Thomas Massey House
- *NEW* Real live PIRATES! Come see Pirates for Sail as they perform period music, period firearm demonstrations, general piracy and face painting!

*NEW* Members of the Marcus Hook Preservation Society and Plankhouse Crew. Find out about our own local historical connection to notorious pirates like Blackbeard!
Antique Gun demonstrations
Colonial beer brewing demonstrations by noted Pennsylvania beer historian, Rich Wagner
*NEW* The Native American Alliance of Bucks County will have members on hand to give background information of Lenape Indians, the Passamaquoddy Indians, and general information about the tribes across the USA. Kids can learn how to make hoop sticks and beaded necklaces, as well as Native American face painting!

Children’s activities like pony rides, a scavenger hunt, corn husk dolls, Native American crafts, pirate face painting, Native American face painting, and a model train display;
Local non-profits on hand to share information and network;

Live music all day by local bands, pirates, as well as choral groups from the area;

Lower Stage		Upper Stage
11:15	The Eclectics - local ska band!	11:00	Penn View Brass Band
12:15	Philly's Mid East Ensemble (with members of Barakka) w/ belly dancing	12:00	The Newtown Squares -
1:30	Broessler School of Irish Dance - Irish Dancing	1:00	Sofia Ryan/Issy Swantak
2:00	Bloody Catholics -local favorite playing the best of Irish folk rock and Americana	1:30	7th Heaven
		2:00	Pirates for Sail - maritime, sea faring music!
3:00	The Unskunkables - Havertown's own favorite Dad band covering all time favorites	3:00