The Gordon-Roberts House

Historical Society

History
The Allegany County Historical Society was founded in 1937, following the Cumberland Sesquicentennial Celebration.  In 1954 the Society purchased an 1867 house at 218 Washington Street to use for the Society headquarters. The house soon became the repository for hundreds of items of local and national significance and was named "History House".  Many of the artifacts owned by the Society are on loan to other museums in the County. Eventually, the museum evolved into a house museum depicting the only two families to occupy the home and was named the "Gordon-Roberts House". Today the Society owns and operates as museums the Gordon-Roberts House at 218 Washington Street, the F. Brooke Whiting House & Museum at 632 Washington Street and the Union Grove One Room School on Mason Road.

Mission 
The Allegany County Historical Society shall have as its purpose to develop and preserve an awareness of the history and traditions of Allegany County for its citizens as well as visitors to the county.  In fulfillment of this purpose, the Society shall engage guests of all ages in a variety of living history experiences in original sites with an emphasis on interactive participation.  The Society shall preserve and maintain historic sites and collections related to local history and present special exhibits which add new dimensions to the public's understanding of our community's rich heritage. 

Meetings 
The Historical Society holds two General Membership Meetings a year for members and guests. 

Annual Events 
Heritage Days - second weekend of June. The festival extends from downtown Historic Cumberland to the Historic District of Washington Street. It features craftspeople, music, food, and tours. The Gordon - Roberts House is open at reduced admission. 

Volunteer Opportunities 
The Society welcomes volunteers at all of its museum sites.  Volunteers may be involved in all aspects of museum work including giving tours, hostesses or host for special events, garden work, archives, and more. 

Download Membership Application Here 

2020 Individual & Family Membership 
Individual $35.00
Joint Couples Member $50.00 
Family Membership $100.00 
Individual Life Membership $500.00 

2020 Business Membership
Professional Practice  $200.00
Local Company  $250.00
Corporate Office $500.00

2020 Heritage Partner
Patron $200.00
Annual Business Partner $1000.00*

*Special Recognition Programs

Benefits of Membership

Historical Society is a member of the following:

• Allegany Arts Council
• American Association for State & Local History
• American Association of Museums
• Heritage Association
• Maryland Association of History Museums