Lycoming County Historical Society, Thomas T. Taber Museum

Officially established in 1907 by the Board of Trade, the Lycoming County Historical Society is recognized as the official repository of Lycoming County history. Our commitment is clear in our mission statement which reads that it is our goal to "discover, collect, preserve and interpret the pre-history, history, and cultural heritage of north central Pennsylvania." We take this seriously in the care, storage, and display of our artifacts which are the precious mementos and items from families of past generations so that present and future generations of visitors may enjoy the rich heritage of our area.

Who We Are

Established in 1907, the Lycoming County Historical Society is located in the heart of Williamsport’s Millionaires’ Row. The Society possesses the most comprehensive collection of documents, photographs, and artifacts relating to the pre-history, history and culture of northcentral Pennsylvania.

Guests may stroll through the fine arts gallery which features works by 19th century still life painter Severin Roesen, magazine illustrator Frances Tipton Hunter, and John Sloan, a member of the Ashcan School of American Art. Visitors will be swept back in time by viewing the re-created frontier cabin, the Greek Revival Parlor, and the Ralston General Store, as well as the refurbished Logging and Lumbering Gallery. In addition, they may explore the dynamic history of the region’s Native American culture, the military heritage of the county, and the industry of house and home.

A visit to the museum would not be complete without viewing the LaRue Shempp Toy Train Collection! Williamsport native LaRue Shempp began collecting model trains as a child and at the time of his death had amassed a collection of over three hundred, many of them one-of-a-kind or extremely rare. The bulk of his collection now resides permanently at the Taber Museum and is a highlight of any tour.

The Community Room of the Historical Society is the site of many activities throughout the year including our very successful Bottles & Brews event with craft beer tastings, our Lecture Series (which draws hundreds of people to participate in lectures on a variety of historical topics), and temporary exhibits. In October, it is alive with the work of one of the clubs that meets regularly at the Society- the Susquehanna Valley Shutterbugs. The North Central Chapter #8 of the Society of Pennsylvania Archaeology, the Lycoming County Genealogical Society, and the Bald Eagle Art League all meet regularly at the Museum, indicating that we have something for everyone!