About The Lower Merion Historical Society
Thus on November 3, 1949 the Main Lines Times (our emphasis) noted the first meeting of the Lower Merion Historical Society. Ninety community residents—about three times more than expected—had showed up; most had to stand throughout the meeting.
Over the following seventy years, The Society has gathered and preserved thousands of books, maps, photographs and artifacts that tell the stories of our people and communities. Scores of neighbors have donated their possessions, time and money to this cause. Hundreds of volunteers have 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.
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.
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), and as such, the Executive Board of the Lower Merion Historical Society (LMHS) commits to making AASLH’s industry ethics and practice standards its own.
AASLH is a national membership organization of individuals, agencies, and organizations acting in the public trust, engaged in the practice of history, and representing a variety of disciplines and professions. The Association expects its members to abide by the ethical and performance standards adopted by all appropriate discipline-based and professional organizations. LMHS commits to the ethical statements and related professional standards and best practices provided for the guidance of all members of AASLH.
Visit Us
The Society holds an outstanding local and regional history collection at the beautifully restored 1812 Lower Merion Academy, the oldest existing school building in Montgomery County.
Visiting Hours
Wednesday Evenings, 7:00 to 9:00 pm
Or by appointment
Lower Merion Academy
506 Bryn Mawr Avenue
Box 2602
Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania 19004
Phone: (610) 664-3216
E-mail: LMHistory@comcast.net
The Academy is the light tan stucco building located between the Cynwyd Elementary School and the Bala Cynwyd Middle School.
Reference Room — Our library of general reference materials; a reading room with Internet access.
Archive Room — A conservation environment housing our primary source materials; maps, books, papers, photographs, fabrics.
File Room — Collections of pamphlets, brochures, papers, newspapers, reprints; also, a display case exhibiting some Society artifacts.
Officers and Directors
Effective April 30, 2022
President: Kate Jiggins
Vice President: Erin Betley
Treasurer: Craig Whitney
Corresponding Secretary: Linda Tasker
Recording Secretary: Kim Andrews
Class of 2024: Kate Jiggins, Chad Henneberry, Elizabeth Laurent, Craig Whitney
Class of 2025: Dennis Montagna, Scott Reynolds
Class of 2026: Kim Andrews, Jamie Singer, Brad Upp
