Michael S. Knecht Appointed Site Administrator at Old Economy Village

HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 11, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) today announced the appointment of Michael S. Knecht as site administrator at Old Economy Village in Ambridge, Beaver County.

"I am happy that we were able to attract such an experienced and assertive leader for Old Economy Village," said James M. Vaughan, PHMC executive director. "Michael is well-regarded in the professional museum community and I know he will bring a host of new, exciting ideas to the site."

Knecht will administer the operations of a six-acre historic site encompassing 17 historic buildings and a visitor center. He will also coordinate programs and activities with the Friends of Old Economy Village, a local non-profit support group.

"Old Economy was in need of a clear-thinking and assertive leader, as well as one who also is personable, thoughtful and cooperative," said Walter Brumm, president of the Friends of Old Economy Village. "These traits, which Michael possesses, are essential in supporting the Friends' volunteer work force."

Knecht has directed a variety of historical and cultural institutions including the Reno County Historical Society, Hutchinson, KS; Atwater Kent Museum, Philadelphia, PA; Old Cowtown Museum, Wichita, KS; Erie County Historical Society, Erie, PA; Goodell Gardens and Homestead, Edinboro, PA; and Laurel Arts, Somerset, PA.  He possesses extensive experience in strategic planning, funding, program development and administration, and collections management.

Knecht holds a bachelor's degree in social sciences/history from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, as well as a master's degree in historical administration from Eastern Illinois University. 

Old Economy Village was the home of the 19th-century Christian communal group, the Harmony Society. Established in 1824, Economy was known worldwide for its piety and industrial prosperity. A National Historic Landmark, it is one of 25 historic sites and museums on the Pennsylvania Trails of History®, administered by PHMC, the commonwealth's official history agency.

For more information on Old Economy Village, visit www.oldeconomyvillage.org.

Media contact: Howard Pollman, 717-705-8639

SOURCE Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

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