Schuylkill County Historical Society, Museum, and Gift Shop — Attraction in Pottsville

I am a member of multiple historical societies in my local area, so I understand how difficult it can be to manage sometimes. However, my experience with SCHS was just ridiculous. After sending a couple of research requests that went well, I decided to buy a shirt from their online gift shop for $25. That was in August of 2021. Months went by and I didn’t receive the shirt. Because I know that COVID hasn’t been kind to our historical societies, I decided to give them a little bit more time and I wouldn’t file a dispute with PayPal. In the meantime, I sent multiple emails and DMs on Facebook. Whenever I would call them, the line would just ring and immediately hang up. I didn’t receive a response until I publicly commented on their Facebook page on April 6, 2022 - a whole 8 MONTHS after I bought the shirt. They privately responded to my public comment through Messenger, but then went silent for days on end. I continued to send emails, but SCHS claimed that they weren’t receiving them. Funny considering I have read receipts on my emails and could see that my emails were at least opened. Finally, on April 15, I received the shirt that I had ordered 8 months beforehand. On the package, there was an origin date of April 12, meaning the shipping label was created on that day. It was the exact shirt I ordered, too, and the only way SCHS could have known that I had ordered that exact shirt was if they looked at my emails - even though they lied and said they weren’t receiving anything. Perhaps I was the stupid one for being too trusting and understanding, but I will never give my money to this...

The Schuylkill County Historical Society is a gem for football fans heading to Penn State and anyone who loves a bit of local history. On my way from New York City to State College this weekend, I decided to stop in—and I’m so glad I did. The staff are genuinely warm and friendly, always happy to share stories and answer questions, and there’s a real feeling of welcome the moment you walk in.

The highlight for any sports fan has to be the exhibit on the Pottsville Maroons, which is packed with fascinating tidbits about Pennsylvania’s sporting legacy. There’s also plenty to see for families from the area, like shelves of old yearbooks, football programs, and all sorts of memorabilia that bring the region’s history to life. And if you love a good souvenir, the gift shop has some treasures waiting for you.

Honestly, it was an awesome experience—easily a 10/10! Definitely worth a stop if you’re passing through on your way to State...

Very nice people and a very important place for history in our area , very clean ..I can't understand why more people don't see this and get involved . Without history there would be no present...Good job to all those involved . Dianna , Jim and volenteer Vince. Just three people who care about the place and what they do.. Great job historical...