Community Gems
Local museums provide a sense of community and place by celebrating a collective heritage and offering a great way to get to know the history in your own backyard .
BY PAMELA PALONGUE
If high gas prices , travel restrictions and running through airports does not appeal to you this season , why not explore some new territory a little closer to home ?
Though many are familiar with some of these museums , we ’ re willing to bet there are a few you may not have heard of . These little treasures explore local history , niche subjects and nature — and many are staffed solely by volunteers who feel passionately about the subject matter they share . Most have small admission fees or are donation only . This makes them both budget and family friendly . Please donate as generously as you can to sustain these unique venues that are a valued part of our communities .
Be sure to check the website of each venue before visiting for the most up-to-date hours and guidelines .
NORTH
Bayernhof Museum 225 Saint Charles Place , O ’ Hara Township 412.782.4231 , bayernhofmuseum . com
Despite having been featured on “ CBS Sunday Morning ” and in numerous articles , many area residents
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