African American Heritage Trail

 In celebration of February’s Black History Month, the Lebanon County NAACP, in partnership with the Lebanon County Historical Society, Visit Lebanon Valley, St. John A.M.E. Church, and other community organizations has spearheaded the creation of a heritage trail that highlights the stories of African Americans throughout the history of Lebanon County. This self-guided trail, will allow participants to learn about the struggles and triumphs of African Americans at various historical sites, and is just the beginning of an effort to amplify Black voices around the community. 

With stops varying from the Cornwall Iron Furnace to the Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, the trail passes through six notable historic sites. In sharing these stories and raising conversation around the history of African Americans in the area, the NAACP hopes to further their fight for equal rights with no racial hatred or discrimination. 

 The self-guided trail will include six stops around Lebanon County. Guides for the trail will be available at various locations including the Visit Lebanon Valley Welcome Center, the Cornwall Iron Furnace, and the Lebanon County Historical Society. A gala celebrating the unveiling of the Heritage Trail will take place at the Lebanon County Historical Society on the evening of Saturday, February 25. The event will feature heavy hors d’oeuvres, dancing, semi-formal dress, BYOB and live music by the Michael Kitchen Band. For tickets, at $40 per person, or for more information, please contact the Lebanon County NAACP, at naacp.leb.co.pa@gmail.com. (Photo: Cornwall Mine, ca. 1885, courtesy of Lebanon County Historical Society.)