Incorporating Newton Hamilton, PA into the Project

This evening, I was invited to share my project with the Newton-Wayne Historical Society. Nestled along the serene Juniata River in Newton Hamilton, Pennsylvania, the Newton-Wayne Historical Society offers a captivating glimpse into local history through the preservation of an original lock house, a relic from the 19th-century canal era. Their passion was evident as they shared stories about the lock house restoration, meticulously choosing period-appropriate materials to capture a true moment in time. As members shared memories of local landmarks and community members, they brainstormed what would best represent their community and tell the story of the Newton Hamilton area, enhancing my project with their invaluable insights and materials.

As I continue to work on the Grove Farm Residency project, I’m excited to include Newton Hamilton, PA, into the narrative. While it technically lies just outside the Huntingdon County line, Newton Hamilton plays a significant role in the Mount Union School District and participates actively in the larger Mount Union area. Its connection to the communities within my project feels natural, as local interactions and shared histories often transcend geographic boundaries.

Newton Hamilton is also part of the Huntingdon County Historical and Heritage Roundtable, an organization I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with throughout this project. This involvement has been my main conduit for connecting with other local organizations and historical societies in the region. The collaborative spirit of the Roundtable perfectly aligns with the community-based focus of my work, and including Newton Hamilton allows me to further emphasize the importance of regional unity and shared stories in the Mount Union area.

By bringing Newton Hamilton into the project, I aim to highlight the rich interconnectivity between neighboring communities. Even when lines are drawn on maps, the people, stories, and traditions that bind us are much broader. Through this quilt block collage, I hope to capture that intricate network, honoring Newton Hamilton’s contributions and its deep ties to the broader Mount Union area.