THE LANSDALE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Preserving the past for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.
Help us preserve Lansdale'S History!
By becoming a member your support will go towards our programs, archives, and events that keep our stories alive.
Passing of Clarence Kinsey
By Dick Shearer
We are saddened to report the passing of our former president and board member Clarence Kinsey, who died December 12 at Elm Terrace Gardens, Lansdale. He was 88. His wife of 66 years, Patricia, passed away October 22. Clarence was a long-time volunteer and officer of our society, and served as president from 2016 until 2018. During his years with LHS, Clarence was best known for his organizational skills, most notably bringing order to our massive photograph collection which includes tens of thousands of vintage images. As a result, these photos are now easily accessible to our staff and the public. He also established a directory of businesses that operated in Lansdale beginning in the late 1800s, and he organized the storage areas in both the Jenkins Homestead and our Research Center. Above all, we will miss him dearly as a friend who would share a joke, a conversation about sports, politics, cars, talk around town and history (of course). We extend our condolences to the Kinsey family. His obituary can be found at: https://www.huffandlakjer.com/obituary/clarence-kinsey-jr
March 10, 2026 - The Wright Conspiracy
Local historian Donald Lewis will recount the tale of the Wright family, Tories of Hatfield, and their attempt to abduct Lt. Col William Reed, also of Hatfield, during the winter of 1777-1778.
April 25, 2026 - Spring Tea
This ticketed event will tickle your taste buds.
Alisa Dupuy of The Ladies of History is a masterful storyteller who will draw you into the 18th century as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday.
Betsy Ross, during her lifetime, was more often known as Elizabeth Claypoole. She was one of thousands of average colonists whose efforts helped the American cause prevail against the British. A flag maker, seamstress, upholsterer, wife, mother, and Quaker, she helped the new nation define itself through flags and colors. Learn all about Betsy, her husbands (plural), and her contributions to American Independence as we celebrate 250 years.
May 12, 2026 - America 250: The Fight For and Celebration of Independence in the Lansdale Area
Discover the Lansdale area's role in the Revolutionary War, and how our Borough has commemorated our independence through the years.
June - Houses of the Declaration
Community-organized readings of the Declaration of Independence to be scheduled on or around the Fourth of July in Montgomery and Chester counties, Pennsylvania.
August 29, 2026 - Founder's Day
Join our community of history enthusiasts and show your support for LHS New. Members receive exclusive access to our events, exhibits, and educational programs, as well as opportunities to volunteer and make a difference in our community.
THANK YOU!
A big THANK YOU to everyone that came out for the Holiday House Tour.
You helped make the day an enjoyable success.
And a really big THANK YOU to the homeowner hosts who did such a beautiful job decorating and for allowing people into their homes. SO appreciated.
Downtown Self-Guided Walking Tour
About Lansdale Historical Society
The Lansdale Historical Society was founded in 1971 and is located in Montgomery County, Lansdale, PA. We are on Jenkins Avenue in a two-building complex. Our purpose is to preserve the history of the Borough of Lansdale and the greater North Penn area. We also share its collection of material and resources with the greater community, particularly the youth. The buildings are owned by the Borough of Lansdale.
The Lansdale Historical Society complex also includes the Jenkins Homestead. The Homestead is a 1770-era Federalist-style farmstead that is the oldest building within the original borders of Lansdale. Portions of the Homestead have been restored and are open for public tours.
Contact Us
Better yet, see us in person!
We love our community, so feel free to visit during normal business hours.
Lansdale Historical Society
137 Jenkins Avenue, Lansdale, Pennsylvania 19446, United States
Hours
Today | Closed |
