Hays House Museum

This guided discussion will focus on the simple questions WHAT, WHERE, WHO, WHY, and WHEN regarding the prehistoric rock images found at Bald Friar Ford, between Harford and Cecil Counties. It will address the four very unique styles of petroglyphs studied in the lower Susquehanna River basin, with comparisons to those of the Allegheny/Monongahela drainage. A new theory will be presented to explain the cultural significance of the Bald Friar site, supported by individual image interpretation

For decades, Harford County riders have left their mark on local trails, tracks, and hillsides. This exhibit celebrates the machines, moments, and memories that shaped a racing tradition passed down through generations. Register Now

On September 17, 1787, delegates to the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia signed the United States Constitution, beginning a process of state-by-state ratification that lasted until 1790. Federal law designates the day as, “Constitution Day and Citizenship Day”, combining recognition of the founding document with a celebration of everyone who holds American citizenship, whether by birth or naturalization. The law establishing this day included very specific requirements for celebratin

Many of our members saw Ms. Dupuy in the past as she portrayed Adrienne de Lafayette. She returns this year as Martha Washington in an equally spellbinding performance- one you will not want to miss. Performer Curt Radabaugh joins Alisa Dupuy, and together they bring the First couple’s story to life in a memorable program. Who says history has to be boring! Come and enjoy an afternoon with George and Martha and relive a unique period in our nation’s history. Registration require

Women’s involvement in the United States’ first army is mostly untold history. Join guest speaker Susan Wooden on Sunday, September 27, to learn about the women of the recreated First Maryland Regiment and discover why and how women and children were living “on the strength” of Washington’s Army, much against his preference. Registration required. Members $10, non-members $25 Registration opening soon!

The Hays House Museum will be open to visitors on Sunday, October 11. No registration required. Members free. Non-Members $5

Mollee Kruger, poet, journalist, and memorialist, was born in Bel Air on March 28, 1929. She lived with her family over their shoe store on Main Street. Her book The Cobbler’s Last recounts her life here during the Great Depression and World War II. While still in high school, Mollee wrote for one of the local newspapers, receiving the grand sum of five cents per column inch for her copy. After graduating from the University of Maryland, Mollee became an internationally recognized, awar

Follow the scent of apples cooking and be part of a demonstration on how apple butter used o be made- The old fashioned way, slowly simmered in a large copper kettle over an open flame. Join in on the fun! Take a turn at stirring the kettle! Fun for the entire family. Registration required. Members free; non-members $5 Registration opening soon!

Every family has a story- Come and learn how to uncover yours! This introductory genealogy workshop will help you discover the legacy left behind by your ancestors. Learn how to trace your lineage with confidence; create a family tree diagram starting with yourself, and work backward in time to depict your ancestors. Locate and organize key family records ( birth, marriage, death, and census records). Document your findings and keep track of your research, and discover your family’s story!

The Hays House Museum will be open to visitors on Sunday, November 8th. No registration required, members free. Non-members $5.

The Historical Society is pleased to announce this year’s guest speaker for the George W. Archer Lecture: author and State Archives Senior Archivist Owen Laurie, who will relate the story behind his new book about the Maryland 400. For more than 10 years, staff members at the Maryland State Archives have researched the soldiers who served in the Maryland 400. They have written and posted online biographies of all the known members of the unit. Now that the work has been published as a

Advent Wreaths: Place your order by Monday, November 20, 2026 for pickup at the Harford History Center on November 24 between 11 AM and 2 PM. Centerpieces and Christmas Trees (table size): Order by November 30, 2026 for pickup on Tuesday December 8, Wednesday December 9, or Thursday December 10 between 11 AM and 2 PM at the Harford History Center Submit orders via our website. Orders will open in October.

We would not recognize Colonial America’s holiday season. Puritans in New England banned Christmas festivities, focusing on religious observance. Elsewhere, Christmas was a bit more festive; there were dances, community feasts, and caroling. Gifts were uncommon. Some people exchanged food or homemade goods, but residents in the 13 colonies disagreed fiercely on how to celebrate Christmas if at all. Registration required. Members free; non-members $5 Registration opening soon!

The Historical Society’s annual Candlelight Christmas Tour returns with docent Julie Brasch. Participants will enjoy Christmas stories of days gone by, and much more! Tours begin Friday, November 27 and run every Friday and Saturday until December 19. Tickets are limited and must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance. Participants meet at Main Street and Kenmore Avenue in downtown Bel Air, then explore the stories of Christmas past. Tickets are non-refundable unless canceled by the