Since its founding in 1976, the Bellefonte Historical and Cultural Association (BHCA) has played a vital role in shaping Bellefonte’s cultural life. From saving historic landmarks to launching beloved arts and music programs, BHCA continues to enrich the community through creativity, preservation, and collaboration. Explore key milestones in our journey below.
1976
- Bellefonte Historical and Cultural Association (BHCA) is established.
- The first structure in Talleyrand Park, a gazebo designed by local sculptor Rob Fisher, is installed.
- The Talleyrand Park Committee begins operating under the BHCA umbrella.
1978
Site for George Grey Barnard Sculpture Garden Donated
Gulf Oil Corporation donates a former gas station site within Talleyrand Park, later transformed into the George Grey Barnard Sculpture Garden.
1980
First Chamber Music Concert
The foundation of what became the Sunday Afternoon Chamber Music Series was laid with a performance held in the Centre County Library Historical Museum.
1981
BHCA Begins Its Own Programs
BHCA transitions from an umbrella group to a programming organization, launching events like:
- Summer Sounds from the Gazebo
- Sunday Afternoon Chamber Music Series
- Old House Fairs
- Film Forum
1983
Bust of Lincoln Installed in Barnard Sculpture Garden
A bust of Abraham Lincoln—cast from George Grey Barnard’s original 1917 plaster head—is installed in the park. Barnard, born in Bellefonte, is a renowned sculptor whose work helped form the foundation of The Cloisters museum in NYC.
1990s–Present (ongoing)
Support for Victorian Christmas
BHCA joins forces with the town's Victorian Christmas celebrations by organizing the Victorian Christmas Arts and Crafts Show, a long-running community event.
2011
Edible Landscape Garden Established
BHCA’s Talleyrand Park Committee creates the Edible Landscape Garden in the park’s new section near the Match Factory. The garden promotes sustainable food production, healthy eating, and low-maintenance landscaping.
2013–Present (ongoing)
Out Loud in Bellefonte Launched
BHCA begins sponsoring Out Loud in Bellefonte, a First Friday literary performance series of poetry, prose, and storytelling held at The Print Factory.
2016
Freight House Saved and Relocated
BHCA rescues the Freight House, a 147-year-old railroad building threatened by waterfront development, and moves it to Talleyrand Park. It is now being repurposed as the Dave Kurz Kayak and Canoe Museum.
2024
First Jitterbug Contest Held
BHCA introduces the Jitterbug Contest during the Bellefonte Cruise, adding a lighthearted dance competition to its diverse arts programming.