Lining the Long Beach boardwalk with food, gifts, and more

The Long Beach Historical Society held its annual craft fair on Aug. 24 and 25. But, this time, it was on the boardwalk, after being in Kennedy Plaza the last few times.

Tons of vendors attended with various goods, including sweatshirts, T-shirts, tie-dye clothing, rock ‘n’ roll clothing, summer attire, and loungewear. Various jewelry vendors, photos from a local photographer, and artists with wood and resin designs. The Long Beach Fire Department also had a booth, looking for any that might be interested in joining.

And, of course, the historical society had a booth, selling beach towels, history books, T-shirts, and assorted goodies. 

The Historical Society was founded in 1980 with a mission to educate the public about Long Beach and to preserve and enhance the city’s architectural and historical heritage. In 1997, the organization purchased the board and saved for the down payment to purchase the 1909 Reynolds Home on 226 West Penn St. Reynolds was the founder and builder of Long Beach.

As a not-for-profit all-volunteer organization and to maintain the building, the mortgage, the insurance, the utilities, and the repairs, the organization often does fundraisers.

The society holds a rich collection of Long Beach’s historical items in an archive. These items, including documents, pictures, artifacts, and memorabilia, are displayed to the public, and can also be used for research. Additionally, the Society provides guided tours of historic houses and areas, showcasing the city’s architectural highlights.

The organization strives to bring history to the community and the community to history.