Currently, the Center is open by appointment only. To make an appointment to view exhibits or use the library, call 215-256-3020 or email info@mhep.org and we will be happy to welcome you.

The Mennonite Heritage Center is a museum and historical library dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Mennonite faith and life in eastern Pennsylvania. Mennonite Christians first settled in the Delaware Valley in 1683 and have been part of eastern Pennsylvania’s community and religious life for over 300 years. You are invited to visit the heritage center to see changing exhibits, use our historical library and take part in events, programs and workshops throughout the year.

Events

The Mennonite Heritage Center hosts numerous workshops and programs throughout the year, as well as major events, including Whack & ...
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Exhibits

We welcome you to view our exhibits and learn about the unique heritage of Mennonites in eastern Pennsylvania. Hours: Tuesday ...
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Library & Collections

The Mennonite Heritage Center houses an excellent Anabaptist and genealogical research library named in honor of John L. Ruth, as ...
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Barn Weddings

Feature barn wedding rental near Philadelphia! Rustic, authentic, historic barn with new construction and amenities on the grounds of the ...
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On the Blog

Ember Day Lore

Each of the four seasons has an Ember Day (image source: Wikipedia). Several years ago, while transcribing a Bucks County Mennonite family register, I came across an unfamiliar phrase noting that Henry Angeny was born December 20, 1843 "auf den quatember [on the Quatember]". The Quatuor Tempora "Four Seasons" (called in German "Quatember") were four groups of "Ember Days" or "Embertides" in the church year that were set aside seasonally for fasting and prayer. Early in Roman church practice they were instituted to replace pre-Christian festivals of prayer and sacrifice for good harvest, etc. While the Quatuor Tempora were not ...
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