Hay Creek Valley
Historical Association

Our Association was organized in 1975 with the objective "to promote within our community an understanding of and appreciation for our local heritage”. In 1979 and 1980 Hay Creek acquired the historic Joanna Furnace property from Bethlehem Steel and have broadened our mission to include the preservation and restoration of this treasured 18th & 19th century iron making community.

Today the organization is 1,000 members strong and relies on volunteer efforts and donations to preserve the history of the Hay Creek Valley. We invite you to visit us by "stepping back in time" and reliving the important history that surrounds our community.

ENJOY EVENTS

Whether it is at one of our signature events or planning your own event, Historic Joanna Furnace is perfect for your next family and friend gathering in Berks County, PA.
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EXPLORE THE HISTORY

Come and experience the history of Joanna Furnace – a historic remnant of Berks Count’s thriving 18th Century iron industry.
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VOLUNTEER

Individuals and groups of all ages can help preservie our local heritage with Hay Creek Valley Historical Association.
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FORGE THE FUTURE

Be part of forging our future by donating to help sustain our mission. Another way to get engage? Become a Hay Creek Valley Historical Assocation Member!
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Drawing of an anvil and blacksmith tools

Events & Programs

(click to see our full calendar and details)

Join us for these signature year-round events at the historic Joanna Furnace!
Vendor links provided where applicable.

Photo of apples at the Hay Creek Apple Festival

Hay Creek Apple Festival
October 12 & 13, 2024 – Saturday 7 am to 5 pm and Sunday 7 am to 3 pm
Click for all the details!

The Hay Creek Apple Festival returns to Joanna Furnace. Get a taste of 18th Century life with apple delights and activities for the whole family! For more information call Hay Creek at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.

Photo of Joanna Furnace in winter

25th Annual Christmas at Joanna
December 6 – 8, 2024 – Friday 5 to 9 pm and Saturday & Sunday 4 to 9 pm.
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A perfect start to your holiday, our Annual Christmas at Joanna Furnace is perfect for all ages! The site will have reenactors, and guests are encouraged to interact with them. Victorian dancing will take place in a large, heated tent. The Hay Creek Valley Gold Band and Hay Creek Dancers will perform, with guests invited to participate. For more information, call Hay Creek at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.

Photo of old tractor at Hay Creek Festival

49th Annual Hay Creek Festival
September 5 – 7, 2024 – 10 am to 5 pm daily
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Step back in time 200 years and experience the rural history of the Hay Creek Valley & the Joanna Furnace Iron Works at the 48th annual Hay Creek Festival. Families will enjoy this one-of-a-kind living history experience on the 26-acre Joanna Furnace ironmaking plantation. For more information call Hay Creek at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.


Photo of informational sign at Joanna Furnace

Year-round Enjoy Our Onsite Self-Guided Tour

Visit historical Joanna Furnace dawn to dusk and take our self-guide tour of the grounds. Our buildings are only open during our events, however you and your family (even your family dog) are welcome to enjoy the grounds. For more information call Hay Creek at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.

Tri-County Heritage Library logo

Ensuring a Future for Our Past…
As of April 2021 the Tri-County Heritage Library is managed by the Hay Creek Valley Historical Association. The mission of the Library is to collect, preserve and disseminate the history that relates to the people, properties and events of Berks, Chester and Lancaster Counties.

Hours: Tuesday - 12 noon to 5 pm.

Visitors are asked to call 610-286-7477 or email info@haycreek.org to set an appointment before their visit.

More information coming soon!

Photo of historic photos