Nineteenth-century jail converted into the County Historical Society’s Museum. Specs O’Keefe of the 1950 Brinks robbery was incarcerated here. Exhibits in original jail cells featuring Civil War, Native Americans, log cabin, rural life, jail dungeon cell, and much more. Genealogical research center. Near MM272
The History of the Bradford County Historical Society:
“The Bradford County Historical Society was organized on May 5, 1870, and was incorporated on February 12, 1875. C.L. Ward was the first president, and in ill health at the time of his election, he died ten days after the first meeting. The society continued, held frequent meetings, and gathered considerable material relating to the early days of Bradford County. This was kept in two cases in the Grand Jury Room at the courthouse. Rev. David Craft was assigned the task of preparing a history of the county, which was published in 1878. There was much dissatisfaction with the work and as a result, the society disbanded.
“On July 21, 1902, the only surviving ex-president of the organization called a meeting and reorganized the society. In 1903, the county commissioners leased to the society the small brick annex located behind the courthouse. A museum and historical library remained there until 1974, when it was moved to 21 Main Street, Towanda.
“In 1996, as a result of significant growth, the board of trustees began to consider adding an addition to the building. Due to the cost involved, a decision was made to look at other buildings in Towanda that might better meet the needs of the society. The old Bradford County Jail, built in 1871, was identified as the best option, and in 1998 the commissioners deeded the property to the society. A ground-breaking ceremony was held at the jail on April 30, 1999. The building was completely renovated for use as a museum and library, though several of the original features of the jail were preserved. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the research library and archives was held on May 19, 2000. Two floors of exhibits were professionally designed. The facility was officially completed, and the grand opening was held on May 9, 2002. Over the years, the Bradford County Historical Society has published many more books in an effort to educate the public about the history of the county.” Source: Bradford County, PA
Bradford County Historical Society Museum Hours: MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY, Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY, First Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed SEPTEMBER through MAY except by appointment.
Closed on all Federal Holidays
Additional hours for groups and school classes by appointment.
Bradford County Historical Society Library Hours: YEAR AROUND, Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
YEAR AROUND, First Saturday of each month, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed on all Federal Holidays Amenities: Wheelchair Accessible
