The Perry Historians were incorporated in 1976 and is dedicated to preserving history whether it i's researching genealogy or documenting historic sites. Local Author and Historian, Jerry A. Clouse was one of the founding members of the non-profit.

"There was not a library, a research library where we could do research instead of going to the state library at Harrisburg. So we felt it would be good to have one closer by in Perry County."

The organization began with just 30 members, but grew by a thousand around the 1980's.

"So a lot of people joined us and we raised money through little fundraisers here and there. And we started like on a shoestring carrying our books to, we would have genealogical workshops at different locations in the county. And finally we raised enough money to purchase an old schoolhouse, which was our first where we had our little library then. But in a few years we realized we needed something more and we built an archives building and then we've had two more additions since then to, so that we could house our library properly and provide research room, everything to help the public better access history and genealogy."

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