Daley: Laurel Hill cemeteries, Church of Saint Asaph receive state grants
Rep. Mary Jo Daley June 12, 2025 | 10:37 AM
MERION STATION, June 12 – State Rep. Mary Jo Daley said she is pleased to report that the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission this week announced the award of just over $2 million in Keystone Historic Preservation grants, including two for the 148th Legislative District.
The Church of Saint Asaph received $100,000, while Friends of Laurel Hill & West Laurel Hill Cemeteries received $25,000.
The grant program supports historical and heritage organizations, museums, and local governments in 15 counties across Pennsylvania, bolstering efforts to preserve the commonwealth's rich cultural heritage.
"The preservation of historic places through public funding is an investment in our region’s identity,” said Daley, D-Montgomery. “By safeguarding these landmarks, we honor our shared past, enrich our present and ensure that future generations inherit the stories that shaped our nation.”
“This grant will enable us to continue advancing in our role as stewards of Laurel Hill,” said Laurel Hill President & CEO Nancy Goldenberg. “We are so grateful to all who support our cemetery and recognize it as an important historic resource in the commonwealth and in our community.”
The history of The Church of Saint Asaph is closely connected to the Roberts family, whose roots in the United States trace back to 1683, when John Roberts emigrated from Wales and settled in the region known as the Welsh Tract. Six generations later, George Roberts — then president of the Pennsylvania Railroad — resided at the family’s estate and farm, Pencoyd. It was from this estate that he donated land for the construction of the church.
PHMC will actively promote these projects as they align with the upcoming 2026 United States Semiquincentennial celebration, highlighting Pennsylvania's enduring legacy.
The grants are funded by the Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund, which receives annual support from a portion of the state realty transfer tax revenue.
The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission is the official history agency of the state. Learn more by visiting?PHMC online?or following on?Facebook,?X (formerly Twitter),?Instagram?or?LinkedIn.