Historic Archives

Our Mission: Learning the past to guide the future, focusing on Pennsylvania

At Historic Archives, we are focused on Pennsylvania history - thus helping us focus on the present and the future.
Pennsylvania has a rich history which will be highlighted on this site.

If we don't tell the stories to our children and neighbors, how will they know? History is all around us, we just need to turn over a few rocks! (and tell a few stories ...)

Our Expertise and Current Efforts

We have a particular focus and growing expertise in the Pennsylvania Soldiers' Orphan Schools that operated from 1864 - 2009.
Governor Andrew Gregg Curtin was the visionary behind these schools, and he pledged to the Civil War soldiers that he would take care of their children. You can find more about this program here.

We have spoken at various locations around the state about the Pa Soldiers' Orphan Schools. If you would like to schedule a talk or discuss what this entails, get in touch! Here is the talk we gave at the Centre County Historical Society Nov 2025, with this short video clip courtesy of (WJC TV Johnstown)

Our Commitment to the history - and future - of Pennsylvania

Focusing on the rich historical tapestry of Pennsylvania, we are traveling the state to tell the story of the Pennsylvania Soldiers' Orphan Schools, while learning from local historical societies.

Why the focus on Pennsylvania and the Soldier's Orphan Schools?

• Dedicated Focus: We specialize in the Pennsylvania Soldiers' Orphan Schools history.
• Personalized Approach: We work closely with historical societies to understand their deep knowledge of local history..
• Regional Understanding: Pennsylvania borders on key states that must be understood as well: OH, WV, MD, DE, MD, NJ, and NY.
• Commitment to Quality: We adhere to best practices in archival management and preservation.