Saltsburg Historical Society

Last Thursday I was the guest speaker at the monthly meeting of the Saltsburg Historical Society.  It was such a quaint little town, almost familiar; I felt like I had been there before.  I was able to catch a ride over with Mary Ellen, whose knowledge and passion for the town and its history captivated me as we drove through the streets.  She had a narrative of the houses and streets and buildings and even the waterways that border the town that would inspire anyone to absolutely love history!   

Our first stop after the little driving tour was the Point Street Tavern, which obviously was part of the town’s historic charm.  It’s one of those towns where everyone knows everyone else, where the food is great, and the atmosphere is relaxing and fun.  After our meal, we walked the half-block to the little stone museum. 

I was amazed when I stepped through the old-fashioned screen door, the kind with the spring that pulled the door shut and the bar diagonal across the screen to keep it from being pushed against.  I was amazed by the display of artifacts that depicted the life of Saltsburg back in the days when it was a thriving town, one that laid a claim to fame because of the salt mines.  In the entrance hall beside the staircase sat a display of period hats – my cousin Gail would have swooned over those.  To the left was a cozy parlor, warm and inviting.  To the right was a receiving room, of sorts, displaying furniture and clothes and blankets, dolls and dough bowl and dishes. I browsed around in there soaking up all the artfully displayed items. 

Walking straight on through the door were two more rooms, and the items there were too numerous and diverse to even recount.  Everything from toys to military uniforms and high school yearbooks and dioramas of of the town’s layout. I was immediately taken by the antique typewriter  (The Saltsburg Press- we’ve come a long way!). There was too much to even take in. 

The meeting consisted of society finances and end-of-year plans, plus presentations of plaques to two local churches erected in the later 1800’s.  After business was concluded, it was my turn.  I took time to introduce my writing history, the premise of Letters to Mary, and all the research required to present accurate facts in the book. 

The presentation was very well received and I knew everyone was walking away with a bit of information and even encouragement to do family and community research for themselves.  I sold several books while the group wandered through the rooms, munching on desserts and trying unsuccessfully to open two bottles of wine!  By the time we cleaned up and packed up and headed back to Greensburg it was after 9pm.  Twice we had to slow our drive, giving right-of-way to two very determined deer who took up more than their share of the road.  The first one was a very large buck, extremely intimidating. 

By the time we reached where my car was parked, I had learned a number of historical facts, had been encouraged and congratulated regarding Letters to Mary, and had met new friends, including Mary Ellen.  I really enjoyed my evening, my lessons, and the kindness of everyone I met.  It was a great evening – I love playing in the ‘gardens’ of history!