Harrisburg – This summer, The State Museum of Pennsylvania will kick off a slate of family-friendly events aimed at celebrating the 50th anniversary of The State Museum and Archives Complex.
Located across the street from the State Capitol, the iconic circular museum building and imposing archives tower were dedicated in October 1965 and recently named to the National Register of Historic Places.
Since its dedication 50 years ago, The State Museum and Archives Complex has been a destination for millions of visitors, researchers and students seeking “all things Pennsylvania.”
The State Museum will celebrate the anniversary with special programming offered through its well-attended Learn@Lunchtime series and a family-friendly party that harkens back to 1965.
From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Saturday, June, 13, travel back in time with retro games, hula hoops, trivia, food and fun when The State Museum hosts its “Party Like It’s 1965” event.
Check out the live animals from ZooAmerica and take in a 1965 planetarium show. Learn how to use a Spirograph and enjoy a Storytime with "Dr. Seuss' Fox in Socks". Outside the museum, the Good Humor man will have retro treats for purchase. The event is included with general admission to the museum. It's all about 1965!
Later in the month, PHMC staff will offer fresh insights into the architectural style and history of The State Museum and Archives complex via the museum’s Learn@Lunchtime series presented on specific Friday afternoons beginning June 19.
The talks will take place around the complex and include an architect’s view of Modernist design in the 20th century, a tour of the interior, free shows inside the 50 year-old Planetarium, a special look at the State Archives and the legacy of the complex’s landscaping. Museum admission is free during the hours of Learn@Lunchtime.
Here’s the schedule for the Learn@Lunchtime programs that will focus on the anniversary of the museum and archives complex:
Friday June 19
Join Andrea Lowery, PHMC Architect, for a discussion of “Modern Architecture and The State Museum & Archive Complex” at 12:15 PM.
Friday July 17
Enjoy the free Planetarium show, “Solar SuperStorm,” on the half hour beginning at 11:00 AM, last show begins at 1:00 PM.
Friday July 31
Join Beth Hager, PHMC’s Director of Strategic Initiatives, for a tour of The State Museum at 12:15 PM
Friday August 14
Enjoy a special look at the Pennsylvania State Archives at 12:15 PM
Friday August 28
Join Katie Hess and Dave Maher, PHMC Historic Preservation Specialists, for a discussion on the landscape legacy of The State Museum and Archives Complex at 12:15.
The State Museum of Pennsylvania is one of 25 historic sites and museums administered by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission as part of the Pennsylvania Trails of History®. The State Museum offers expansive collections interpreting Pennsylvania’s fascinating heritage. With exhibits examining the dawn of geologic time, the Native American experience, the colonial and revolutionary era, a pivotal Civil War battleground, and the commonwealth's vast industrial age, The State Museum demonstrates that Pennsylvania's story is America’s story.
Museum hours are Wednesday through Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $7 for adults (ages 12-64), $6 for senior citizens (ages 65 and up), and $5 for children (ages 1-11).
Media contact: Howard Pollman, 717-705-8639
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