About Us
Our Mission
The Lower Merion Historical Society is an organization dedicated to “Preserving Our Past for the Future.” This is accomplished by stewardship of local history, education of the community, preservation of historic resources, and outreach to promote awareness of the cultural heritage of the Township of Lower Merion and the Borough of Narberth.
Photo: Lancaster Pike, Ardmore, 1940s, replete with two movie theaters, a bowling alley, bars, and sundry shops.
Our History
“If and when we become more conscious of the permeation of the present by the past, we will come to realize that it is only by knowing the past that we can understand the present and mold the future, and thus make the most of our own brief histories.”
— Main Line Times (1949)
Thus on November 3, 1949, the Main Line Times noted the first meeting of the Lower Merion Historical Society. Ninety community residents—about three times more than expected—showed up; most had to stand throughout the meeting.
Since that meeting, the Society has been dedicated to our mission of “Preserving Our Past for the Future.” Generations of dedicated presidents and board members have gathered and preserved thousands of books, maps, photographs, oral histories, and artifacts that tell the stories of our people and communities. We have published articles and books, given presentations and walking tours, answered countless research questions from near and far, and helmed historic preservation efforts. Scores of neighbors have donated their possessions, time, and money to this cause. Hundreds of volunteers have stewarded our collections, made data and information accessible to researchers, and provided educational programs to the public. Thousands of students, residents, and scholars have worked with the Society’s extensive resources, in person and online. The Lower Merion Historical Society is a vital force in preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Lower Merion and Narberth.
Board and Staff
Effective April 30, 2024
Board Officers
(2-year terms 2023-2025)
Directors (3-year terms)
Class of 2025: Kate Jiggins, Dennis Montagna, Scott Reynolds
Class of 2026: Kim Andrews, Jamie Singer, Brad Upp
Class of 2027: Erin Betley, Samar Khan, Elizabeth Laurent, Linda Tasker, Craig Whitney
Presidents Emeritus: Jerry Francis, Ted Goldsborough
Interested in becoming a board or committee member? Contact us for details.
Staff Positions
Our Location:
Lower Merion Academy Building
506 Bryn Mawr Avenue
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Get Directions
For general inquiries or to schedule an appointment:
info@lowermerionhistory.org
For research requests:
research@lowermerionhistory.org
Library Hours:
Wednesdays from 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Visit Us
The Society is located on the second floor of the Lower Merion Academy Building, a beautifully restored 1812 building and the oldest existing school building in Montgomery County. Our outstanding collection of local and regional history includes:
- Reading Room—Our library of general reference materials, including a reading room with internet access.
- Archive Room—A conservation environment housing our primary source materials, maps, books, papers, photographs, and fabrics.
- File Room—Collections of pamphlets, brochures, papers, newspapers, reprints, and a display case exhibiting some Society artifacts.
Please review our Reading Room Guidelines and Object Handling Guidelines for Researchers before your visit.
We also offer visits by appointment, depending on our availability. To schedule an appointment, email requests to info@lowermerionhistory.org.
If you have specific needs for your visit, please email us advance notice so we can prepare. More information about our collections is available on our Collections page.
The Academy is a light tan stucco building immediately adjacent to Bala Cynwyd Middle School. Come in the front door, place your items in the lockers in closet at foot of the stairs, and come up to the second floor.
(610) 664-3216 (voicemail only, as this phone number is not regularly monitored)
Our mailing address is:
P.O. Box 2602
Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Organizational Publications
Our Standards and Ethics Statement
The Lower Merion Historical Society is a member in good standing of the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), a national membership association dedicated to helping the history community thrive. The executive board of LMHS commits to the ethical statements and related professional standards and best practices provided for the guidance of all members of AASLH. Learn more about the AASLH Standards and Ethics.
