HOWARD — Imagine taking your family’s holiday photo in the same parlor where Ironmaster Roland Curtin and his son, Governor Andrew Gregg Curtin, likely shared conversation.
The community will have this unique opportunity Dec. 12 from 1-4 p.m. during “Christmas at the Curtin.”We customize. You could save $947Ad By Liberty Mutual Insurance See More
The popup photo fundraiser will allow the community to bring their own camera or smartphone and snap a family photo in the parlor in front of the fireplace and a Christmas tree — decorated as it would have been during the Victorian era and donated by Larry and Katherine Curtin Drelick.
“The Curtin Mansion is simply beautiful and we wanted to open our doors so others could make a special memory in this important historical home,” said Sue Hannegan, president of the Foundation that runs the property.
“We hope people return to tour the property often and help us ensure the preservation of Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village.”
The parlor will be staged by representatives from Souled Home Design, Helen Foxx, Spring Creek Picnics and Curtin volunteers. Allowing visitors to use their own smartphone will make it easier for them to email, post socially, print or create their own holiday card. Photos are limited to 3 to 5 minutes.
There is no set cost for the popup photo booth, but donations in any amount are encouraged and accepted. Since the event is a fundraiser, donations of $30 would also include membership in the Foundation for individuals, or $50 for a family.
All proceeds will go to the Roland Curtin Foundation. Sign up is not necessary.
The Curtin Mansion was built by Ironmaster Roland Curtin in 1830-1831. His descendants, including his son Andrew, the first Republican governor of Pennsylvania, occupied the home until the 1950s, after which it was vacant for 20 years.
Curtin Village was then turned over to the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, which restored the mansion and rebuilt the furnace.
The Federal-style mansion has retained much of its original beauty, including its original floors, woodwork, staircase and its windows. It has 10 fireplaces and 15 rooms, most of which are furnished with furniture and antiques from the 1850 time period.
Eagle Iron Works and Curtin Village is one of Central Pennsylvania’s most unique and best preserved stateowned historical sites.
The iron works and village were part of a large iron plantation operated by Roland Curtin and his family for four generations from 1810 to 1921.
Today, the buildings and grounds are preserved to give visitors historical insights into life as it was in a company town in the 1800s.
For more information on the popup holiday photo fundraiser, visit The Curtin Village Facebook Page, or email curtinvillage@gmail.com.
