Larry Bussard was born and raised in Smicksburg, Pennsylvania, across the street from his current residence on Route 954. Larry spent over 40 years living and working outside the area, but the pull of home never left him. In 2012, Larry and his wife Stella returned to Smicksburg—the place he still proudly calls home. With deep roots in the community and a passion for woodworking and local history, Larry quickly became a vital part of the Smicksburg Heritage Center and a standout volunteer within the Lumber Heritage Region.

When the Lumber Heritage Region (LHR) set out to develop the Lumber Heritage Trail, we needed a location that could represent northern Indiana County. Smicksburg, with its rich history and community pride, stood out. Executive Director Holly Komonczi and Project Manager Steve Manginell made the trip to explore options. Like any good small-town introduction, it started at Country Junction—the town’s only real restaurant. Holly turned to the waitress and asked, “Who do I talk to about the Heritage Center?” Without missing a beat, she replied, “Come with me.” She led us over to a table and introduced us to Larry Bussard and his wife Stella. That moment kicked off a relationship that continues to grow.

Larry is one of those rare people who will talk to anyone. Whether you’re a tourist or a lifelong local, he will greet you with the same warmth and openness. That comes from his father, Paul Bussard, who taught him that every person has a story worth hearing. It’s a value Larry carries with him in everything he does—and it makes him the kind of volunteer every community wishes they had.

Though Larry lived away from Smicksburg for decades, he returned because, as he
simply puts it, “It was home.” Since then, he has poured his time and talent into the
Heritage Center. Using a scroll saw, Larry handcrafts beautiful and functional items like candle boxes, earrings, magnets, and more—all of which are sold in the Heritage Center’s gift shop. Each piece reflects the spirit of the region: practical, personal, and proudly made by hand.

Smicksburg’s heritage includes innovation as well as tradition—like John B. McCormick, a local inventor who developed the mix-flow water turbine to solve the challenge of inconsistent water flow across the seasons. It’s this blend of creativity, resilience, and deep connection to place that defines the community—and volunteers like Larry.

Larry Bussard’s quiet leadership, craftsmanship, and deep hometown pride are at the heart of what the Lumber Heritage Region represents. He helps keep the past alive not just in stories or artifacts, but in the welcoming spirit he extends to everyone who walks through Smicksburg.