Map showing villages that made up Derry circa 1729, and tools once used in farming
Witness our unique heritage come to life at the Hershey History Center. Explore exhibits chronicling the community built on chocolate, the military heroes that became world renowned, and the legendary hockey franchise that calls our town home.
Step back in time as you learn how our community's past has shaped our lives today. Children can discover interactive displays while guests experience a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and archives defining our local narrative.
We invite you to be our guest - visit, explore, and discover how the Hershey History Center (HHC) is making History Happen Here.
Welcome!
Jazz at the Barnyard
LIVE Jazz concerts
Friday, August 7 | 6pm - 9pm
Set in the historic barnyard behind the Hershey History Center, enjoy live music from Wave Quartet in a one-of-a-kind outdoor setting. Hershey Area Art Association: Expressions in Art present a community art exhibition celebrating the creativity and talent of local artists. Open Reception during the Jazz at the Barnyard. Gallery Day on Saturday, August 8. 10am to 3pm.
The Barnyard and the art exhibition open at 6pm. Music is from 7-9pm. The event is sponsored by Casalingo Foods.
Next Jazz at the Barnyard is on Friday, September 4. 6pm - 9pm.
HAAA: Expressions in Art
Hershey Area Art Association art show
Friday, August 7 | 6pm - 9pm (During Jazz at the Barnyard)
Saturday, August 8 | 10am - 3pm (Gallery Day)
The Hershey History Center is pleased to partner with the Hershey Area Art Association (HAAA) to present a community art exhibition celebrating the creativity and talent of local artists.
Expressions in Art features original works in a variety of mediums created by members of the Hershey Area Art Association. Artwork is not limited to a single theme, offering visitors a broad and diverse collection that reflects each artist’s individual style, inspiration, and creative voice.
Navajo Rugs: A Connection with Mount Gretna
Navajo Rugs: A Connection with Mt. Gretna
Wednesday, August 19 | 6pm - 7:30pm
The in-person program is presented by Don "Stone" Kensinger, the author of WEAVING PASSIONS, who shares the separate histories of Mount Gretna and the Diné people; the story of Theo Wittman's life; and personal accounts of rugs collected by residents of Mount Gretna. Find out more about the program.
Blood Drive
Blood Drive on August 21
Friday, August 21 | 10:30am - 3pm
Through the Lens of Hershey
Through the Lens of Hershey: Photography by John Martin
Friday, September 4 | 6pm - 9 pm (During Jazz at the Barnyard)
Saturday, September 5 | 10am to 3pm (Gallery Day)
The Hershey History Center is proud to present Through the Lens of Hershey, a special photography exhibit featuring the work of local photographer John Martin.
The exhibition will be in the Community Room in the lower level of the building. Free admission during Jazz at the Barnyard. The museum is open on Gallery Day on September 5 from 10am to 3pm. Admission charged.
Trains at the Tracks
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Model train show, kids' activities, and food trucks
Saturday, October 17 and Sunday, October 18 | 10am - 4pm
Save the dates for our 6th annual model train extravaganza. More information coming soon.
Online Photo Archive
The Hershey History Center has a collection of approximately 30,000 historic photos. We are continuously publishing updates to the collection for online searching, viewing and purchasing. Currently, there are close to 1000 photos to view in the database with more added regularly. If you are interested in purchasing a photo from the Archive, please email: photos@hersheyhistory.org
Hershey Hotel circa 1930
The windowless offices of the Chocolate Co. decorated for Christmas in December 1956.
Hershey Hotel circa 1930
Hover on a photo to show the Pause and Play buttons to stop the slideshow for a closer look.
Hershey History Center Connections
Ride
Book your e-bike adventure with Hershey e-Tours. First stop is to tour the Hershey History Center.
Shop
Hosted by Stay Apparel. Featuring a variety of talented artisans. Museum admission applies as usual.
Tour
Book a food and shopping tour visiting local restaurants & unique shops. Trolley goes from the museum.
Hershey E-Tours. Stay Apparel. YOKL Food Tours
OTHER MUSEUMS OF INTEREST
AACA Library & Research Center
Gettysburg National Military Park
Hummelstown Historical Society
Lebanon County Historical Society
Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission
our mission:
interpret
PRESERVE
PROMOTE
the history of Derry Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania.
Programs and services provided in part by funding through the PA Historical & Museum Commission
Renewal by Andersen is a Proud Partner of the HHC