Welcome to Historic Schaefferstown

Thanks to the dedication of our members, sponsors, and volunteers, we’ve come a long way since 1966. We invite you to get involved any way you can. Try something different! Take a class. Learn a new skill. Volunteer. Remember to renew your valuable HSI Membership for great benefits every year.

Pick up your printed 2023 brochure soon or download a PDF version >

Founded in 1966, HSI is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to the culture and unique history of Schaefferstown and greater southeastern Lebanon County, Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania German and Swiss cultures which flourished here during the last few centuries are authentically presented among several historic sites – the Alexander Schaeffer House and Farm, the Thomas R. Brendle Museum, and the Gemberling-Rex House. Our sites host cultural events with all the local, historic flavor you expect. Your memorable Pennsylvania German experience with HSI will last a lifetime. Enjoy your website visit today.

 


“Going Back in Time” DVD Available

Watch the Preview >

New DVD is available to orderIf you enjoy learning how this village started and why it thrived here in the earliest days, you’ll love this DVD we produced (thanks to a grant from the Lebanon County Commissioner Hotel Tax Fund). Produced by Forney Video Productions, this interesting documentary is now available for purchase. Only $15 including tax and postage (if mailed). To order, please call 717-949-2244 or email the HSI office.

 


Attention Photographers

If you wish to visit the beautiful and historic Schaeffer Farm or other museum sites on your own in order to capture personal or professional images, we’d like to accommodate you as best we can. Before you visit with the intent to capture scenery or pose family or models, please note our Photography Policy:

  • Please contact our office to request permission before visiting.
  • Personal-use photographer requested donation: $10 per day
  • Professional-use photographer requested donation: $20 per day

Professional photographers must sign a formal agreement with HSI. Then we will provide authorized nametag and pass as detailed in the agreement. Request details when you call to reserve your photography appointment.



Volunteers Needed Graphic