Perryopolis Area Heritage Society

Opened in October 1988, Perryopolis Area Heritage Society is managed by local enthusiasts who want to preserve, promote, and develop the town's and neighborhood's historical structures and heritage. It is a Pennsylvania-chartered organization with 501(c) (3) not-for-profit status.

The Borough Council, local businesses, community churches, and the Frazier School District support the society. It restores and maintains historical buildings and organizes local festivals to improve the area's economic conditions by encouraging tourism.

Perryopolis Area Heritage Society's accomplishments include:

• Reestablishment of the Pioneer Days festival, held annually the first weekend in October.
• Rebuilding of George Washington’s 1776 Gristmill. The original stone foundation was restored in 1992; the three-story framework was completed in 1999.
• Reconstruction of Shreve’s 1790s-era distillery to its original layout. It is the only remaining distillery in southwestern PA from the Whiskey Rebellion 1794.
• Purchased the 1817 Old State Bank building and established a museum.
• Purchased an 1816 house believed to be the birthplace of the town’s first benefactor, Mary Fuller Frazier. This building now houses the society office, a genealogy library, and four main rooms furnished in 1880-1920 style.
• Refurbishment of Searight’s 1815 Fulling Mill and the Gue House, a two-story, 1820s-era log house.
• Built Fort Trial, a replica of the 1774 blockhouse used by Washington’s partner for protection against hostile Native Americans during the two years the gristmill was built.
• Refurbishment of the bake oven in the 1890s-era bakery so that bread can be baked during the Pioneer Days festival.
• The location of 15 historic markers throughout the town encourages a walking tour of Perryopolis.
• The fencing around the park complex, where the gristmill, distillery, and bakery are located, will be installed.
• Began developing the 100 acres where the Pioneer Days festival is held. The Society's festival food booth has been relocated to this area, lighting has been installed, and a free parking lot has been developed. Water and electrical hookups are now available for food vendors.
• Built a rustic outdoor stage in the Mill Park complex.
• Enclosed an old pavilion near the fulling mill to provide needed storage space.
• Installed a water supply line and drinking fountains in the Mill Park complex.
• Completed the project for the year 2000--the Dr. Harry R. Sampey Park.