Project Details
Connecting History Across a Landscape
The Austin Dam Memorial Association (ADMA) undertook the “Austin Kindling Factory” project to expand storytelling along the Austin Heritage Trail. This initiative complements the Cora Brooks/Bayless Paper Mill Interpretive Display, installed in May 2024 at the Austin Dam Memorial Park and officially unveiled on July 25, 2024.
Delivered on January 13, 2025, the Austin Kindling Factory interpretive display will be installed in the Borough of Austin, with an unveiling ceremony scheduled for spring 2025.
Meeting the Challenge
ADMA faced the challenge of connecting three important community resources:
The solution was to create interpretive displays with complementary lumber-era themes, installed at each end of a two-mile trail system. This approach encourages visitors, families, and friends to explore public spaces, connect with history, and stay active while celebrating the community’s unique story.
A Collaborative Effort
The project was made possible through strong partnerships with:
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Lumber Heritage Region
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E.O. Austin House and Museum
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Blue Moon Media and Marketing
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Pannier Graphics
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Cousins Designs
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Local Scouts and the Borough of Austin
The Lumber Heritage Region contributed the display panel and pedestal for the earlier Bayless Paper Mill exhibit, while Austin Scout Troop 524 helped with installations. Their continued involvement will ensure the Austin Kindling Factory display becomes a reality in 2025.
Looking Ahead
The “Austin Heritage Trail” plan envisions a connected network of interactive displays that reflect national interests, highlight workforce diversity during the lumber era, and reduce disparities in representation. While the CCC Company 2336 (Bark Shanty Camp) display has been designed, it is not yet funded and may be considered in a future project.
For now, the Austin Kindling Factory display stands as the next step in linking history, community, and outdoor recreation in the Austin region.
Funding and Support
This mini-grant was financed in part by the Community Conservation Partnerships Program, Heritage Area Funds, under the administration of the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Recreation and Conservation.
