Join the Sharon Historical Society as we celebrate the release of our newest book, “Pads of Glory: 125 Years of the Sharon High School Football Tradition,” with a special lecture. In this lecture, we’ll explore the history of Sharon High School football, which dates back to 1899. Over 125 years later, high school football in western Pennsylvania remains a staple of our sports culture. Take a step back in time and walk under the entranceway into the Sharon Stadium, which was built in 1934. The open arched windows, the old brickwork, its classic design, and the natural grass field create a special ambiance on a cool fall football evening. In the early years, the Sharon ‘Yellow Jackets’ as they were known until 1934, played on 4 different sites: Pargny Park Field, Buhl Farm Field, Elks Park field, and Steel Hoop Field. It was not until 1928 that the team played its games at the current location between Forker Blvd. and N. Myers Ave. Initially, wood bleachers with a seating capacity of 1,500 surrounded the field. This event will celebrate the release of our newest book with over 200 pages of in-depth research paired with historic and current photography.

There have been some great memories of great teams and players in old Tiger Stadium. Only nine Sharon head coaches worked the sidelines for the Tigers since the stadium was built including Dave Stewart, Webb Forsythe, and Jim Wildman. Extraordinary teams included the undefeated 1931 squad, the once-tied 1937 team, undefeated teams in 1956 and 1966, and state runners-up squads in 1994 and 1995. Memorable crowds at the Stadium include nearly 10,000 spectators at the 1956 Sharon-Farrell game and the 1996 Sharon-Wilmington Game featuring undefeated teams. It would be impossible to list all the great Sharon players, but a few are Joe Bosco, ‘Rube’ White, Dick Bestwick, Wally Jones, Frank Gitschier, Jim ‘Spike’ Moran, Mike Sebastian, Jim Hubicz, Randy Holloway, Mike Connell, Teryl Austin, Mike Archie, Marlin Jackson. The visiting players who displayed talents on this field were Terry Hanratty, Joe Namath, Tony Dorsett, Mike Ditka, Hugh McGinnis, Randy Crowder, Lorenzo Styles, Andre Coleman, and the Saul brothers from Butler.

This lecture is provided by Tony Molinari, lead researcher and author, with Brian Kepple and Lyle Bieber. This lecture is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. No reservations or tickets are required.

The event will be at the Sharon Municipal Building, City Council Chambers, 155 West Connelly Blvd. Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, November 14, 2024 at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for our first Archival Volunteer Orientation, presented by Savannah Moss, Collections and Research Manager at Trumbull County Historical Society in Warren, Ohio. Her background is in Anthropology and Art History, but her passion lies in prehistoric art, preservation, community development, and conservation within museum studies. This interactive event will guide interested volunteers through the essential steps and resources needed to assist the Sharon Historical Society in cataloging and inventorying our historical artifacts, conducting research on local history for programs, exhibits, events, and publications, transcribing historical documents, and ultimately, digitizing archival materials to our online database.

This workshop orientation is open to individuals of all experience levels, whether you’re just beginning or are an experienced archives volunteer. To register for the orientation, please email: sharonhistoricalsocietypa@gmail.com

The event will take place on the second floor of the Sharon Historical Society’s Wallis Mansion History Center, 290 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm. Steps are required to participate in this volunteer orientation.

Join the Sharon Historical Society at Buhl Park’s first Founder’s Festival as we will be setup as a vendor during the event. This family-friendly event will feature specialty vendors, food and drinks, hay rides, and a self-guided history tour of the park that was a collaborative effort between Buhl Park and the Sharon Historical Society.

Enjoy live entertainment with an open mic hosted by Dave Roshala, cozy up by fire rings, and soak in the fall atmosphere with fun for all ages. Don't miss this festive celebration of community and history — there's something for everyone!

We will be selling maps, Christmas ornaments, postcards, memberships, and our publications, including our book “Built by Steel: Frank and Julia Buhl’s Mansion and Legacy”!

The Sharon Historical Society's booth will be setup near the Casino at Buhl Park, 715 Hazen Road, Hermitage, PA 16148 during Founder’s Festival on Saturday, November 2, 2024 from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in collaboration with the Warren Historical Players and The Block by Nova Destinations, as we host “BOO! Ghosts, Halloween History & Booze,” a unique lecture with an alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage included. Former professor Dr. Ronald Brooks,  local physician Dr. Gregory George, and Mercer County Coroner John A. Libonati will give the origins of Halloween and its celebration throughout the decades, the paranormal (fact or fiction?), and the relationship between Halloween and the paranormal. A discussion about paranormal activity and spiritual encounters will also be presented, do you believe?

This lecture is provided by Dr. Ronald Brooks who has appeared in many historical reenactments in the Western Reserve of Northeast Ohio. You may have seen him in one of his reenactments of General Simon Perkins or David Tod, Ohio’s Civil War Governor. Perhaps you have seen him as a Victorian Gentleman in his presentation of Victorian Spiritualism, to name just a few. Dr. Brooks is proud to be a member of the Warren Historical Players. He has brought to his presentations and other performances an in-depth knowledge of the Victorian Era, Spiritualism, and the history of the Ohio Western Reserve. Dr. Brooks is recognized as an authority in all things Victorian and local history. Two of his recent books are “In the Shadow of the Spire: Historical Profiles of Warren Ohio” and “A Journey into the Spirit World.” His Ph.D. is in education, and he is a tenured full professor. He holds a Master’s Degree in mathematics and a Bachelor’s Degree in education and history. He has won numerous awards for his teaching ability. Dr. Gregory George is a local physician. He volunteered for the Trumbull County Historical Society portraying Henry Bishop Perkins and Judge Frederick Kinsman in character and costume. He is enthusiastic about being part of Warren Historical Players. He portrayed several local iconic leaders, including Dr. Peter Allen, W.D. Packard, and Clearance Darrow. He portrayed Charles Dickens during the Players’ Christmas event. Dr. George played the role of Dr. Ephraim King in the PBS Documentary Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster, produced and directed by Len Brown of Beacon Productions. John A. Libonati has served as Mercer County Coroner for nine years. For the past 16 years, Mr. Libonati has been a certified death investigator through the Pennsylvania State Coroners’ Education Board and has worked for the Mercer County Coroner’s Office where he has performed over 3,000 death investigations.

This event requires tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person and include an alcoholic or two non-alcoholic beverages. The Block opens at 4:30 pm; doors to the event space open at 5:00 pm.

The event will be at The Block by Nova Destinations first-floor, 23 Chestnut Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in collaboration with the Warren Historical Players and The Block by Nova Destinations, as we host “Love at First Bite: Vampires & Craft Beer!,” a unique lecture with an alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage included. Former professor Dr. Ronald Brooks and local physician Dr. Gregory George will give the story behind the story of vampires through myths, superstitions, legends, and reality with authoritative historical research. Learn details on the medical condition that spurred superstition and folklore. Hear how literature and cinema then spread the legend from the 1800’s to the present.

This lecture is provided by Dr. Ronald Brooks who has appeared in many historical reenactments in the Western Reserve of Northeast Ohio. You may have seen him in one of his reenactments of General Simon Perkins or David Tod, Ohio’s Civil War Governor. Perhaps you have seen him as a Victorian Gentleman in his presentation of Victorian Spiritualism, to name just a few. Dr. Brooks is proud to be a member of the Warren Historical Players. He has brought to his presentations and other performances an in-depth knowledge of the Victorian Era, Spiritualism, and the history of the Ohio Western Reserve. Dr. Brooks is recognized as an authority in all things Victorian and local history. Two of his recent books are “In the Shadow of the Spire: Historical Profiles of Warren Ohio” and “A Journey into the Spirit World.” His Ph.D. is in education, and he is a tenured full professor. He holds a Master’s Degree in mathematics and a Bachelor’s Degree in education and history. He has won numerous awards for his teaching ability. Dr. Gregory George is a local physician. He volunteered for the Trumbull County Historical Society portraying Henry Bishop Perkins and Judge Frederick Kinsman in character and costume. He is enthusiastic about being part of Warren Historical Players. He portrayed several local iconic leaders, including Dr. Peter Allen, W.D. Packard, and Clearance Darrow. He portrayed Charles Dickens during the Players’ Christmas event. Dr. George played the role of Dr. Ephraim King in the PBS Documentary Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster, produced and directed by Len Brown of Beacon Productions.

This event requires tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person and include an alcoholic or two non-alcoholic beverages. Steps are required to get to the second floor for this event. Tickets will be available at the door. The Block opens at 4:30 pm; doors to the event space open at 5:00 pm.

The event will be at The Block by Nova Destinations second-floor, 23 Chestnut Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for a unique walking tour of several historic mansions (plus a few historic buildings) on the East Hill. This will be an “explore at your own pace” event where attendees can enjoy the history of these grand old homes and buildings and their promising futures. Truly a photographer’s dream, this Open House event will be a rare opportunity for the community to step inside the first floor of these historic homes and buildings and meet the owners. A few are businesses, others are private properties that aren’t open to the public regularly.

Stops will include the Wallis mansion (290 East State Street), the McDowell mansion (264 East State Street), the Whitla mansion (381 East State Street), the Willson mansion (555 East State Street), the old Buhl Armory/Girl’s Buhl Club building apartments (49 South Sharpsville Avenue), and the Forker Apartments (357 East State Street). A special souvenir handout detailing the tour stops and other interesting facts about the East Hill will be provided to participants. The Sharon Historical Society will also have memberships, publications, and additional merchandise available for purchase.

The self-guided tour will involve walking on a steep grade and/or rolling, uneven terrain. Be aware that participants will be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. These tours require a $10 donation at the event registration tent (290 East State Street). No reservations or tickets are required, however, we are offering pre-sale tickets to help with crowd control. You can purchase them on our website HERE. Additional donations are much appreciated.

Event registration will be at the Wallis mansion, the new home of the Sharon Historical Society, at 290 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 1:00 pm and will run until 4:00 pm.

Parking can be found in the lot at the Stevenson Funeral Home, the F. H. Buhl Club, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Daffin’s Candies, and other public parking lots and spots nearby.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for our Downtown Sharon History Walks during WaterFire Sharon. We will focus on West State Street, the oldest section of the city! Stops to include the Luna/Nuluna Theater, The Sharon Store (The Winner), the Alpha Theater/Lurie building, the Morgan Grand Opera House, Porter Way, the majestic Columbia Theatre, North Water Avenue businesses, a mid-1800s house on West State that became a hotel and restaurant, the Applegate Block/Dinner Bell restaurant, the Carver House hotel, the Daus barbershop, the Exchange Hotel, the now-demolished business block on the south side of West State, and more!

The History Walks will be approximately 1.5-2 hours over a 2-mile route of flat terrain, sometimes uneven. Rare photographs and interesting stories will be printed in our collectible booklet!

TIME CHANGE: Walks will begin at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm/Noon, and 2:00 pm on Saturday, September 21st, 2024 during WaterFire Sharon. These are FREE and OPEN TO ALL!! Donations are appreciated!! The starting point will be the Veterans’ Walkway between The Winner and Donna’s Diner (10 West State Street, Sharon, PA 16146).

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at 1 pm and 3 pm.

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 5 pm and 7 pm.

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at 1 pm and 3 pm.

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 5 pm and 7 pm.

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at 1 pm and 3 pm.

Did you take our Buhl Mansion Exclusive Guided History Tours last Christmas? If so, our summer tours are different!

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and beautiful gardens, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

New additions to these tours include a guided tour with historian Taylor Galaska. Galaska will lead the group throughout the 7-acre formal gardens, showcase interesting architectural features on the exterior of the building, and explore the first, second, and third floors of the interior of the mansion.

These hour-long tours, which begin at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate of Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic, and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available. Tickets MUST be purchased on our website HERE.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 5 pm and 7 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for our Downtown Sharon History Walks during WaterFire Sharon. We will focus on the North Flats neighborhood. Stops to include the Shenango Valley Water Co., Sharon post offices, Modern floods (including the 1959 ice flood), Sharon schools/Penn State Shenango campus, Sharon Congregational Church, House of Torah synagogue/Christ the King Catholic Church, Yazvac Place/Sharon patrolman Joesph Yazvac (killed in the line of duty), Harold Brest (bank robber, kidnapper and unsuccessful Alcatraz escapee), Ashton home, McDowell Manor apartments, the V Bridges, and more!

The History Walks will be approximately 1.5 hours over a 1.6-mile route of flat, mostly SHADED terrain, sometimes uneven. Rare photographs and interesting stories will be printed in our collectible booklet!

TIME CHANGE: Due to the crowds expected at WaterFire Sharon, PA we have moved the tour times so our group can have the best experience possible. Tours this year will be 10:00 am, Noon/12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm on Saturday, July 27th, 2024. These are FREE and OPEN TO ALL!! Donations are appreciated!!

Tours will begin at the Penn State University welcome sign on the corner of East Silver Street and Shenango Avenue, across from the Sharon Post Office, at 32 East Silver Street, Sharon, PA 16146.

Parking may be found on several lots nearby at Penn State, on-street parking, and the Downtown Sharon/Primary Health Network Parking Garage. All parking is FREE.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in conjunction with the Oakwood Cemetery Association, for our Oakwood Cemetery Tours: The Stories Within. The guided tours will include an orientation at the Veteran's Bandstand followed by stops at nine points of interest throughout the Cemetery. Escorts will lead attendees in small groups to these preplanned stops. A historic interpreter will then provide biographical information about the person(s) interred at each location.

There will be two identical tour sessions, one starting at 10:00 am and one starting at 2:00 pm. It is suggested to arrive 30 minutes early to allow for parking, registration, and walking to the orientation area. No vehicle traffic will be allowed inside the Cemetery, other than directed parking in assigned areas.

Stops will include such points of interest as the Buhl Chapel and mausoleum, Billy Whitla “The Kidnapped Boy”, the famous Gypsy Queen, family mausoleums, a well-known suffragette, veterans, and other interesting local figures. A special souvenir booklet detailing the tour stops and other interesting facts about Oakwood Cemetery will be available for purchase. The Sharon Historical Society will also have a tent where memberships and additional publications can be purchased.

The tour will involve approximately 1.5 miles of walking on rolling, uneven terrain. The estimated length of the walk is nearly 2.5 hours. Rest stops are limited. Be aware that participants may be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. These tours are $10 PER ATTENDEE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. No advanced reservations needed. Please bring $10 cash or check.

The event will be at Oakwood Cemetery, 600 North Oakland Ave. Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.

Volunteers are still needed to help at this event. If you are interested in working one or both tour sessions, please contact the Society through Facebook Messenger or via email at: john@zavinski.com

Join the Sharon Historical Society for a unique, behind-the-scenes walking tour of several historic mansions on the East Hill. This will be an “explore at your own pace” event where attendees can enjoy the history of these grand old homes and their promising futures. Truly a photographer’s dream, this Open House event will be a rare opportunity for the community to step inside these historic homes.

Stops will include the Wallis mansion (290 East State Street), the McDowell mansion (264 East State Street), the Whitla mansion (381 East State Street), the Willson mansion (555 East State Street), and more. A special souvenir handout detailing the tour stops and other interesting facts about the East Hill will be provided to participants. The Sharon Historical Society will also have memberships, publications, and additional merchandise available for purchase.

The self-guided tour will involve walking on a steep grade and/or rolling, uneven terrain. Be aware that participants will be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. These tours require a $10 donation at the door. No reservations or tickets are required, however, we are offering pre-sale tickets to help with crowd control. You can purchase them HERE. Additional donations are much appreciated.

Event registration will be at the Wallis mansion, the new home of the Sharon Historical Society, at 290 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 1:00 pm and will run until 4:00 pm.

Parking can be found in the lot at the Stevenson Funeral Home, the F. H. Buhl Club, Covenant Presbyterian Church, Daffin’s Candies, and other public parking lots and spots nearby.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in collaboration with The Block by Nova Destinations, as we host “Beware the Black Hand! Early Organized Crime in Ohio and Pennsylvania: True Crime & Cocktails,” a unique, lecture with an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage included. Author Sean Posey explores the history of the dreaded Black Hand criminal society, which terrorized Italian immigrants during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys.

Organized crime is a hot topic for many in the Mahoning and Shenango Valleys. There are stories about the hold that the mafia had on the area during the 1900s, but the idea of organized crime started long before that. Many immigrants to the United States in the 1800s were threatened by a very dark, and terrifying secret group known as “the Black Hand” that extorted people for money. People would often receive a threatening letter with a black hand imprinted on it, some were kidnapped, others would lose their home or business to arson, and many were murdered at the hands of this group.

We will explore the beginnings of organized crime, and trace the evolution of the dreaded Black Hand secret society and its reign of terror in Ohio and Pennsylvania during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

This lecture is provided by author Sean T. Posey, freelance writer and historian. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Photojournalism from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and a Master’s degree in History from Youngstown State University. His work has been featured in a variety of publications, including Citylab, Salon and Bill Moyers and Company, as well as in the books “Car Bombs to Cookie Tables: The Youngstown Anthology” and the “Pittsburgh Anthology.” The History Press released Sean’s first two books: “Lost Youngstown” and “Historic Theaters of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley.” His most recent book, “Hidden History of Youngstown and the Mahoning Valley,” hit shelves in 2022.

This event requires tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person and include an alcoholic or two non-alcoholic beverages.

The event will be at The Block by Nova Destinations second-floor, 23 Chestnut Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in collaboration with the Warren Historical Players and Croaker’s Brewing Company, as we host “Death in the Perkins Family: Beer & Bloodshed,” a unique, lecture with an alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage included. Former professor Dr. Ronald Brooks and local physician Dr. Gregory George will give the story behind the story of the Perkins family, who founded Akron, Ohio, and had members in both Warren, Ohio, and Sharon, Pa. Many members of the family suffered from melancholia, which we know today as severe depression. Because of this melancholia, two members of the family would commit suicide. Henry Bishop Perkins Jr. shot himself on the banks of the Mahoning River behind the Kinsman House in 1900. His father, Henry Bishop Perkins Sr. would never recover from his son’s death and less than a year later in 1901, he would hang himself from the rafters in his office. One of the rumors about Bish Perkins is that he impregnated a local maid, who then died under suspicious circumstances. Newspapers said she was in “an unfortunate condition” at the time of her death.

This lecture is provided by Dr. Ronald Brooks who has appeared in many historical reenactments in the Western Reserve of Northeast Ohio. You may have seen him in one of his reenactments of General Simon Perkins or David Tod, Ohio’s Civil War Governor. Perhaps you have seen him as a Victorian Gentleman in his presentation of Victorian Spiritualism, to name just a few. Dr. Brooks is proud to be a member of the Warren Historical Players. He has brought to his presentations and other performances an in-depth knowledge of the Victorian Era, Spiritualism, and the history of the Ohio Western Reserve. Dr. Brooks is recognized as an authority in all things Victorian and local history. Two of his recent books are In the Shadow of the Spire, Historical Profiles of Warren Ohio, and A Journey into the Spirit World. His Ph.D. is in education, and he is a tenured full professor. He holds a Master’s Degree in mathematics and a Bachelor’s Degree in education and history. He has won numerous awards for his teaching ability. Dr. Gregory George is a local physician. He volunteered for the Trumbull County Historical Society portraying Henry Bishop Perkins and Judge Frederick Kinsman in character and costume. He is enthusiastic about being part of Warren Historical Players. He portrayed several local iconic leaders, including Dr. Peter Allen, W.D. Packard, and Clearance Darrow. He portrayed Charles Dickens during the Players’ Christmas event. Dr. George played the role of Dr. Ephraim King in the PBS Documentary Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster, produced and directed by Len Brown of Beacon Productions. John A. Libonati has served as Mercer County Coroner for nine years. For the past 16 years, Mr. Libonati has been a certified death investigator through the Pennsylvania State Coroners’ Education Board and has worked for the Mercer County Coroner’s Office where he has performed over 3,000 death investigations.

This event requires tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person and include an alcoholic or two non-alcoholic beverages.

The event will be at the Taproom of Croaker's Brewing Company, 74 North Sharpsville Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at 2:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society as we celebrate the release of our newest book, “The Magic City: The Mills, Men, & Homes of a Company Town Forged in Steel,” with a special lecture. In this lecture, we’ll explore the city of Farrell’s past with this in-depth look at the development of South Sharon as a company town, the birth of the steel industry, the men responsible for its success, and the grand mansions of steel barons and modest homes of millworkers during this transformational era. This event will celebrate the release of our newest book which is a full-color book with over 200 pages of in-depth research paired with historic and current photography.

Skeptics watched and waited during the first years of the 20th century for the decline and sudden death of the little “boomtown” of South Sharon, now the city of Farrell, Pennsylvania. So quickly had it appeared amid the Shenango Valley’s established communities of Sharon and Sharpsville that many called the new steel-making settlement “The Magic City” and fully expected it to disappear with equal rapidity. Overcrowded boarding houses, the influx of immigrant laborers for the steel mills, and the ensuing building boom all led to speculation that although a bonanza had been struck, it would be of only temporary importance to the Valley. They underestimated the strength of steel and of the men who made it. But not all that glitters is gold. With the influx of immigrant workers, a rise in crime through the Italian Black Hand Society gave South Sharon the notoriety of being the Society’s headquarters. In 1919, the Great Steel Strike due to unfair wages erupted in the region, chaos and rioting left four dead. Uncover the rich history of one of the region’s largest employers, the Sharon Steel Corporation, the men responsible for its success, and the homes of steel kings and average workers who all played a critical role in the development of South Sharon into an important steel town in Western Pennsylvania.

This lecture is provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society. Galaska has been on the Board of Directors since 2014 when he joined at the age of 15. He has dedicated the last several years to researching the histories of hundreds of residences throughout the city of Sharon and the surrounding region of Western Pennsylvania and Eastern Ohio. He became well-known for his social media postings featuring the histories of local homes during and after the pandemic. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. This lecture is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. No reservations or tickets are required.

The event will be at the Sharon Municipal Building, City Council Chambers, 155 West Connelly Blvd. Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in collaboration with the Warren Historical Players and Croaker’s Brewing Company, as we host “Love at First Bite: Vampires & Craft Beer!,” a unique, lecture with an alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage included. Former professor Dr. Ronald Brooks and local physician Dr. Gregory George will give the story behind the story of vampires through myths, superstitions, legends, and reality with authoritative historical research. Learn details on the medical condition that spurred superstition and folklore. Hear how literature and cinema then spread the legend from the 1800’s to the present. It will be a unique Valentine’s Day-themed event.

This lecture is provided by Dr. Ronald Brooks who has appeared in many historical reenactments in the Western Reserve of Northeast Ohio. You may have seen him in one of his reenactments of General Simon Perkins or David Tod, Ohio’s Civil War Governor. Perhaps you have seen him as a Victorian Gentleman in his presentation of Victorian Spiritualism, to name just a few. Dr. Brooks is proud to be a member of the Warren Historical Players. He has brought to his presentations and other performances an in-depth knowledge of the Victorian Era, Spiritualism, and the history of the Ohio Western Reserve. Dr. Brooks is recognized as an authority in all things Victorian and local history. Two of his recent books are In the Shadow of the Spire, Historical Profiles of Warren Ohio, and A Journey into the Spirit World. His Ph.D. is in education, and he is a tenured full professor. He holds a Master’s Degree in mathematics and a Bachelor’s Degree in education and history. He has won numerous awards for his teaching ability. Dr. Gregory George is a local physician. He volunteered for the Trumbull County Historical Society portraying Henry Bishop Perkins and Judge Frederick Kinsman in character and costume. He is enthusiastic about being part of Warren Historical Players. He portrayed several local iconic leaders, including Dr. Peter Allen, W.D. Packard, and Clearance Darrow. He portrayed Charles Dickens during the Players’ Christmas event. Dr. George played the role of Dr. Ephraim King in the PBS Documentary Engineering Tragedy: The Ashtabula Train Disaster, produced and directed by Len Brown of Beacon Productions.

This event requires tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person and include an alcoholic or two non-alcoholic beverages. Some “standing-room only” in-person ticket sales may be available at the door.

The event will be at the Taproom of Croaker's Brewing Company, 74 North Sharpsville Avenue, Sharon, PA 16146 on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 2:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for a special opening of our Gift Shop at the Wallis Mansion History Center. While the house is still undergoing restoration and renovation work, we will have our Gift Shop open for shopping during the City of Sharon’s #LoveLocal event downtown. Our Gift Shop sells our publications, maps, Christmas ornaments, postcards, memberships, and more!

Please enter the westside entrance of the Wallis Mansion History Center to access the Gift Shop easily.

The Gift Shop at the Sharon Historical Society’s Wallis Mansion History Center, 290 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 will be open for this special event on Saturday, February 10, 2024 from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 10:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 2:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Monday, January 1, 2024 at 1 pm and 3 pm.

SOLD OUT — Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 1:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, December 23, 2023 at 1:00 pm.

SOLD OUT — Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 1:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, December 16, 2023 at 1:00 pm.

SOLD OUT — Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 5:00 pm AND 7:00 pm.

SOLD OUT — Join the Sharon Historical Society, in partnership with Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, as we host exclusive guided history tours of the historic Frank H. Buhl Mansion. During these hour-long, guided tours of the interior, exterior, and wonderful Christmas decorations, we’ll explore the rich history of the Frank H. Buhl mansion, built in 1891 as a wedding gift from industrialist and philanthropist Frank Buhl to his wife Julia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special thanks to Laura Ackley, Donna Winner, and Karen Winner Sed for their extreme generosity and support of the Sharon Historical Society. We welcome you to enjoy the fairytale...

These hour-long tours, which begin at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm, are provided by Taylor Galaska, President of the Board of Directors of the Sharon Historical Society, and Laura Ackley, General Manager of Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is the Guesthouse Supervisor and "resident historian" at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa. Galaska is a Sharon native, graduating from Kennedy Catholic High School in 2017. He went on to study at Westminster College where he earned a Bachelor’s in Marketing and Professional Sales, though his true passion is architectural history and historic preservation. Laura Ackley is from Beaver Falls, but has called the Shenango Valley home for over 20 years. A graduate from Geneva College where she earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Ackley has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including those in the tourism, hospitality, cultural, economic and community development sectors. She worked in Grand Rapids, Michigan and Pittsburgh before returning to Sharon as the General Manager and Director of Marketing for Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, Tara - A Country Inn, and Donna's Diner in 2003. Ackley has dedicated the last two decades to researching the history of the Buhl family.

These exclusive guided history tours require tickets to be purchased in advance on our website HERE which are $20 per person. In-person ticket sales are NOT available.

The event will begin in the Carriage House at Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa, 422 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 5:00 pm AND 7:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for our Annual Meeting with a special lecture, Buggies, Blue Doors, and Donuts: Amish Customs with Dr. Park. In this lecture, you’ll discover the fascinating world of the Old Order Amish community and gain unique insights into their way of life. Get into the holiday spirit with light refreshments (Amish donuts) and holiday gift shopping for the dozens of publications offered by the Society, before or after the presentation.

This hour-long program is provided by Dr. Kristin Park, an esteemed Sociology professor at Westminster College. Dr. Park, who graduated with a Bachelor’s in Sociology and Anthropology from Colgate University, has also earned a Master’s and PhD in Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She has a certificate in Latin American Studies. Dr. Park has taught Sociology, Criminal Justice Studies, and International Studies at Westminster College since 1993.

As a respected member of the board of the Amish and Plain Anabaptist Studies Association, Dr. Kristin Park brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Her deep understanding of Amish culture and her close interactions with the community make her an ideal guide to navigate this “close to home” topic.

During the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the traditions, values, and customs of the Old Order Amish community. Dr. Park will share her personal experiences, anecdotes, and research findings, shedding light on the unique aspects of Amish life. From the distinctive buggies that grace their roads to the symbolic blue doors adorning their homes, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the Amish way of living.

Furthermore, this exclusive event offers attendees the chance to savor delicious Amish donuts, lovingly prepared according to traditional recipes. As you indulge in these delectable treats, you can immerse yourself in the ambiance of Amish culture and forge connections with fellow enthusiasts. This lecture is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. No reservations or tickets are required.

The event will be at the Sharon Municipal Building, City Council Chambers, 155 West Connelly Blvd. Sharon, PA 16146 on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 6:00 pm.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for a unique, behind-the-scenes, sneak-peek tour of our newly acquired home, the historic Wallis mansion. This will be an “explore at your own pace” event where attendees can enjoy the history of this grand old home and its promising future as the Society’s Wallis Mansion History Center. Truly a photographer’s dream, this open house event will be a sneak-peek opportunity for the community to see our progress on its restoration and rebirth.

A special souvenir handout with a brief history of the house and its future will be provided to participants. The Sharon Historical Society’s NEW gift shop will be open during the open house event with memberships, publications, Christmas ornaments, and more for purchase.

The self-guided tour may involve walking on a steep grade and/or rolling, uneven terrain. Be aware that participants will be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. This event requires a $10 admission fee at the door which will go directly to the restoration and renovations of this beautiful, old home. Additional donations are much appreciated.

Please enter the rear kitchen entrance of the Wallis mansion, at 290 East State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Small Business Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 1:00 pm and will run until 4:00 pm.

Parking can be found in the lot at the Wallis mansion, off of Grace Place, at the Harold W. Stevenson Funeral Home, street-parking along Pine Street, at Covenant Presbyterian Church, and at the Buhl Club.

Join the Sharon Historical Society for a unique, behind-the-scenes walking tour of several historic mansions on the West Hill. This will be an “explore at your own pace” event where attendees can enjoy the history of these grand old homes and their promising futures. Truly a photographer’s dream, this Open House event will be a rare opportunity for the community to wander the properties.

Stops will include the Carley mansion (333 West State Street), the Rose mansion (371 West State Street), the DeForeest house (395 West State Street), the Stevenson mansion (109 North Irvine Avenue), the Perkins estate (300 West State Street), and more. A special souvenir handout detailing the tour stops and other interesting facts about the West Hill will be provided to participants. The Sharon Historical Society will also have memberships and additional merchandise available for purchase.

The self-guided tour will involve walking on a steep grade and/or rolling, uneven terrain. Be aware that participants will be on their feet for the entire event. Please wear appropriate shoes and attire for the weather. These tours require a $10 donation at the door. No reservations or tickets are required, however, we are offering pre-sale tickets to help with crowd control. You can purchase them HERE. Additional donations are much appreciated.

Event registration will be at the Perkins estate, inside the main hall of the Perkins mansion, at 300 West State Street, Sharon, PA 16146 on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at 1:00 pm and will run until 4:00 pm.

Parking can be found in the lots at the Perkins estate, in the lot at First Baptist, St. John's Episcopal, and the former Sacred Heart churches, and on-street parking along the south side of West State Street.