BELLEFONTE — This week, the Centre County Commissioners unanimously adopted two proclamations showcasing local heritage and promoting education and civic engagement.

The commissioners, first, issued their annual proclamation establishing April 2026 as Grange Month.

The proclamation honors the longstanding role of the Grange in Centre County’s history. Since 1874, the Grange organization has bolstered families and communities in the area through service, education and agricultural advocacy.

More than 150 years later, the Grange continues to positively impact rural and small-town communities in the area.

Centre County Pomona Grange #13 is composed of 12 Community Granges and one Junior Grange, each of which actively engage in community service. From delivering dictionaries to elementary children to creating comforting quilts and assisting military members, the Grange continues to solidify its importance in the community’s day-to-day life.

The Commissioners celebrated the leadership, impact and dedication of the Grange while adopting the proclamation.

The Commissioners also proclaimed Centre County’s second annual Civil War Weekend, which will take place May 1 through May 3, 2026.

Civil War Weekend is an educational initiative depicting the causes, experiences and lasting impact of the American Civil War.

Led by the Bellefonte Historical and Cultural Association, the weekend aims to deepen understanding of the pivotal Civil War era in United States history.

Events begin on Friday afternoon, with speakers, book sales, live artillery and infantry demonstrations and cemetery tours scheduled throughout the weekend.

Residents are encouraged to participate in Civil War Weekend to appreciate the former and continued pursuits of a more perfect union.

For more information, visit www.bellefontecivilwarweekend.org.