About the Oley Valley Heritage

The Oley Valley Heritage Association is a group of people who are proud of their heritage in the Oley Valley, and share a common interest in keeping the history of the valley alive. We strive to learn as much as we can about our heritage, so we can share it with you, and generations to come.

The Oley Valley Heritage Association can trace is roots to a water loss incident to the Oley Valley in the late 1970’s.  As part of a strategy to combat this environmental threat, a concerned citizens group sought protection through the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Oley Township was subsequently selected for the trust’s rural project in 1980. It took three years to survey the historic landmarks in the township, and prepare the application.  The effort paid off when, in 1983, the whole township was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  This was the largest nomination of its kind. After the National Trust project ended, the Oley Valley Heritage Association was incorporated to continue the mission.