New book features Mennonite history
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BELLEVILLE -- The Mifflin County Mennonite Historical Society has released a book called "Stories in Time."
The book features nearly 300 pages which includes stories like local family histories, articles from quarterly newsletters and articles submitted by various writers.
The book compiled by a committee of the Heritage Center board, including Betty Hartzler, Jayne Kanagy and Sherman Stoltzfus.
According to Hartzler, the book itself was a sequel to the book "Seasons in Time" that was 10 years in the making.
"In 2011 in celebration of our 25th anniversary, the board decided to collect stories from the past 25 years of newsletters into a book (Seasons in Time)," Hartzler said. "The book was a success as over 600 copies were sold and the funds were used for this non-profit, all volunteer organization."
"Ten years had passed and there were enough newsletter stories, along with additional stories, for another book," Hartzler continued. "During this time, the board also expanding by purchasing the house next door for more display space and needed additional funds. So the second book "Stories in Time" was compiled."
Much like its predecessor, "Seasons in Time," there will be plenty of examples of stories that showcased how the people of Mifflin County had lived back in the early days. Whether it be cooking food, to all the different businesses and even personal stories from people during the time period.
"Stories have been a strength for the Heritage Center as they inform and teach about our history," Hartzler said. "Stories in the two books include, family history and genealogy, businesses, schools, churches, hunting camps, sewing and cooking, family stories, individual stories and a few about the early Indians who occupied this region. Stories are written by our board, members and anyone who cares to contribute."
It is this showcase of several topics that Hartzler and the other members of the committee of the Heritage Center board believe really will be appealing to all different generations.
"The book is perfect to pick up for a short, easy read," Hartzler said. "The wide variety of subjects has something that interests most anyone. It brings back memories for the older and teaches history to the younger generations."
The Mifflin County Mennonite Historical Society hopes that this book will help those to appreciate the ones that came before them and also to help keep the history of that alive for many generations to come.
"This book has stories of the first Amish who came to Mifflin County in 1791 and teaches history in an enjoyable way," Hartzler said. "Thousands of artifacts and family memorabilia have been donated to the Heritage center and this is a way to preserve and tell their stories."
If you like to purchase Stories in Time for 30 dollars, you can go to the Heritage Center on the corner of Main and Walnut streets in Belleville from 9 a.m. to noon on Wednesday and Saturdays or by contacting Sharon Peachey at jdsrpeachey@embarqmail.com or at (717) 935-5351.