Explore the Rich History of Sharon, PA
The New Home of the Sharon Historical Society
The Sharon Historical Society was founded as a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization in 2013. A dedicated group of local history aficionados banded together to promote and preserve our history while educating the public. Since our founding over a decade ago, the Sharon Historical Society has made leaps and bounds in preserving our local historical, architectural, and cultural heritage.
Not only has the organization grown in membership, the Society embarked on its first major capital campaign in November 2022 called: “Preserving Our Past, Building Our Future.” This campaign was inaugurated and led by President Taylor Galaska and Treasurer Wallace “Mike” Kotyk who were steadfast in their belief that the Sharon Historical Society could raise $200,000 to purchase an endangered and truly historic home on the city’s East Hill.
In May 2023, the first campaign was a success as the Society secured the William Lee and Nancy Ricketts Wallis mansion. Since the acquisition, the Society has been renovating and restorating many critical pieces of the house, while allowing space for its growing Archival Research Library and its Exhibition Galleries.
Still a “work in progress,” the Society has set a goal of opening the Wallis Mansion History Center to the public in the fall of 2024.
What To Expect at the Wallis Mansion History Center
Preservation of an Architectural Masterpiece
Built in 1901 at the height of the American Aesthetic Movement, the Wallis Mansion is a work of art in the Prairie and Renaissance Revival syles. Our restoration work is breathing new life into this historic home, with a focus on the Victorian, Arts & Crafts, and Art Nouveau motifs likely once employed here. It is our mission to preserve as much of the original architectural uniqueness and beauty of the Wallis Mansion while allowing the space to become a museum and research center. The city’s history and its preservation is a catalyst for revitalization and tourism efforts, and we are proud to be a part of that movement.
Engaging Exhibits
Coming in late 2024 will be our first interpretive exhibits, showcasing the history and development of Sharon and the Shenango Valley. Tracing the intriguing history of a small village along the Shenango River that transformed into the metropolis of the Shenango Valley, our exhibits will chronicle the “Sharon Block Coal” boom, the rise and fall of iron and steel manufacturing, and other key industries that played a role in building the nation. Visitors will learn about the companies that flourished, the culture of philanthropy, some of the city’s most prominent citizens, and the locations that the people grew to love. The exhibit will display original artifacts, photographs, paintings, maps, and more. We will share the history of our city with students, visitors, groups, and others through our eyewitness accounts and in-depth research showcased in our events, lectures, and exhibits.
Gifts for History Lovers
The Sharon Historical Society’s NEW gift shop will be open during special events and select hours, posted on our social media. Inside, our gift shop offers memberships, Christmas ornaments, reproduction maps, and a variety of publications pertaining to local, regional, and national history. All items in our in-person gift shop are available online HERE.
ADDRESS & HOURS
Wallis Mansion History Center
290 East State Street
Sharon, PA, 16146
HOURS — CLOSED during renovation and restoration work
Still a “work in progress,” the Society has set a goal of opening the Wallis Mansion History Center to the public in the fall of 2024.
