READING, Pa. – As we celebrate Black History Month, one historical center in our area is shining a light on the stories and contributions that helped shape Berks County.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay takes a closer look at how that history is being preserved and shared.

Berks History Center Executive Director Mandy Lynn Mccoy said the center, which was founded in 1869, focuses on historical and genealogical research, artifacts, and “anything and everything having to do with Berks County.”

McCoy said the center is open Wednesday through Saturday. People can tour the museum and do research in the library. 

Board of Trustees President Frederick Sheeler said an event is being held this weekend in recognition of Black History Month. Dr. Benjamin Carter, an anthology professor at Muhlenberg College, will give a presentation on the Six Penny Creek Settlement Saturday.

The Black Americans who had worked at the settlement, which was near Hopewell Furnace, were an “incredible aid” to the Underground Railroad, Sheeler said. Carter will tell their story.

107 documented African Americans worked at the Hopewell Furnace from 1771 to 1883.

McCoy said they also had a pivotal impact on Berks County industry.

The Black History Month event begins at 10 a.m. Saturday. People can watch the presentation in person or virtually. Those interested can preregister online.

A $5 entry fee will be charged for members. The fee is $10 for non-members.

The center has a number of historical photographs, including one that shows black War draftees at the old Berks County courthouse, at a time before the armed forces were fully integrated.

Vicky Heffner, the center’s Education Curator, said one of her favorite moments is when she takes students to see a Conestoga Wagon in the building. 

“They do that ‘ooh and ahh,'” she said.

Sheeler said the wagon was used in the early iron industry to haul charcoal to the iron forges. Those visiting the center can also check out a diorama of Penn Square as it was in the 1850’s.