The inspiration for the Encyclopedia Live history talk series comes from the more than 200 articles available through the Centre County Encyclopedia of History & Culture. The encyclopedia presents Centre County’s history and culture, in all its variety, through topics and themes. This series will feature authors speaking about subjects featured in the encyclopedia.
History is an interpretive art, based on available evidence. Accordingly, the interpretations are, at times, controversial and contested. The Centre County Historical Society strongly supports freedom of speech and the First Amendment rights of our speakers, authors, and writers. The Society does not necessarily endorse or support all views, conclusions, and opinions expressed, yet believes they merit entry into the marketplace of ideas and the scrutiny it affords.
The Encyclopedia Live History Talks are held at the Centre Furnace Mansion unless otherwise noted in individual talks. Event parking is available on the lower lawn along College Avenue, as well as in the Mansion lot off Porter Road. Visitors may also park behind Esber Home and Rugs. Please contact Mary Sorensen at 814-234-4779 or msorensen@centrefurnace.org for additional information.
Past Encyclopedia Live Talks
2022: “From Pastime to Premiere: The History of Movie Theaters in Centre County” by Kevin Hagopian
2023: “The History of Radio in Centre County” by David Dzikowski
2024: “Architect Phil Hallock” by Laurin Goad Davis
2025: “Pennsylvania’s Soldiers’ Orphan Schools” by William Peck
