The Lancaster County Historical Society and the James Buchanan Foundation for the Preservation of Wheatland have signed a merger agreement —forming a new historical organization, LancasterHistory.org.

LancasterHistory.org's mission will be to educate the public about the heritage and history of the people, places and events that shaped our region, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States of America. We will achieve this mission by actively collecting, preserving, interpreting and making accessible materials representing Lancaster County's past and by preserving and sharing the home, life and legacy of James Buchanan, the 15th President of the United States.

We will promote this heritage and history through a research library, changing exhibitions, public and school programs, archival and artifact collections, the Louise Arnold Tanger Arboretum, and Wheatland – a National Historic Landmark and the home of Buchanan, Pennsylvania's only U.S. president. As a portal of history for the community, LancasterHistory.org will serve the needs and interests of history-oriented organizations, bringing greater focus to the extraordinary opportunities for learners of all ages to experience America's past in Lancaster County.

Our two organizations have a long-standing partnership and have been working together for years. With this merger, we have a remarkable opportunity to be of better service to you and all members of our community. The effective date of this merger is expected to be late May 2009. Stay tuned for more news about this exciting venture.

What does the merger mean for you? First and foremost it means a continuation of the exceptional services and benefits you have come to expect from the Lancaster County Historical Society and Wheatland. When the merger is effective, members will enjoy all the benefits of both sites.

Our members and patrons are the heart and soul of these two historic treasures and we value your friendship, patronage, and support. Thank you for supporting the Lancaster County Historical Society and Wheatland and for sharing this monumental occasion with us.

Sincerely,

Thomas R. Ryan, Ph.D., President and CEO
LancasterHistory.org
717-392-4633