The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC) celebrated the extraordinary contributions of twenty-seven dedicated volunteers during its annual award ceremony on April 25, 2026. Hosted at Cornwall Iron Furnace with hospitality and catering services provided by Cornwall Manor, the event recognized those whose tireless work ensures the Commonwealth’s stories remain vibrant and accessible.
Twenty individuals were named Volunteers of the Year for their impact over the 2025 calendar year, while seven distinguished citizens received the Outstanding Service Award for their long-term devotion to the Pennsylvania Trails of History.
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our historic sites and museums, and their work has never been more significant than it is today,” said Andrea Lowery, PHMC Executive Director. “They are a vital link between our shared history and the communities we serve. As the Commonwealth takes center stage for America’s 250th birthday, we are grateful to these Pennsylvanians who dedicate their time and talents to ensuring our heritage is preserved with care, shared with passion and open to everyone.”
For over a century, PHMC has relied on the invaluable contributions of citizen volunteers who collaborate with dedicated paid staff to advance the agency's preservation and interpretation programs. This year marks the 51st year that the commission’s leadership has gathered to express gratitude and celebrate exceptional volunteer service.
Volunteer of the Year Award recipients for 2025:
Dana Polanichka - Anthracite Heritage Museum
Dwayne Fisher - Brandywine Battlefield Park
Henry Bowden - Bushy Run Battlefield
Brian Bachman - Cornwall Iron Furnace
Louise Griffiths - Daniel Boone Homestead
Jennifer Miller - Drake Well Museum & Park
Angie Rabbitz - Eckley Miners’ Village
Harry Beerman - Erie Maritime Museum
Tony Checchia - Graeme Park
Debra Harris - Hope Lodge
Colleen Epler-Ruths - Joseph Priestley House
Alice Best - Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Carol Weber - Old Economy Village
Jacqui Pearson - Pennsbury Manor
Edward Watkins - Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Simon Cressman - Pennsylvania Military Museum
John Horn - Pennsylvania State Archives
David Lewis - Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Ron Musser - Somerset Historical Center
David Frederick - State Museum of Pennsylvania
Outstanding Service Award recipients for 2025:
Bonnie Ramus - Bushy Run Battlefield
Brian Beamesderfer - Conrad Weiser Homestead
Will Wingo - Drake Well Museum & Park
Bill Miller - Ephrata Cloister
Ed Bolla - Erie Maritime Museum
Larry Hess - Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
David Healy - Pennsbury Manor
