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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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.
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! There will be reenactors at the site, 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.
2025
Valentine's Lasagna Dinner
Thursday, February 13th
Please save the date for our Valentine's Lasagna Dinner! Details coming!
Questions? Call Hay Creek at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.
Fasnacht Sale
Tuesday, March 4th
YUM! Our annual Old Fashion Fasnacht sale will be Tuesday, March 4th. $10 per dozen and $6 for half dozen. Pick up Tuesday, March 4th between 12PM and 5PM. Order by Tuesday, April 29th. Click here to download and print our order form! Questions? Call us at 610-286-0388 or email mzerr@haycreek.org.
49th Annual Hay Creek Festival
September 5 – 7, 2025 – 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.
Hay Creek Apple Festival
October 11 & 12, 2025 – Saturday 7 am to 5 pm and Sunday 7 am to 3 pm
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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.
Year-round at Haycreek!
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.
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!
