HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Mercer and Lawrence County Historical Societies received $9,000 each in grants from the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission.

According to a press release, this is part of nearly $4 million from the Commission's Cultural and Historical Support Grant program awarded to 177 museums and historical societies across 59 Pennsylvania counties.

The goal of the grant program is to strengthen the commonwealth's museums and historical societies by supporting their general operations that are not supported by other state agency funding programs.

Pennsylvania Representatives Aaron Bernstine and Marla Brown, who both represent Lawrence County, are quoted in a press release expressing their support for this funding.

"The Lawrence County Historical Society is a vital guardian of our community's past and this grant helps ensure its irreplaceable records and artifacts remain protected," Bernstine said.

"Our historical societies play an essential role in educating the public and strengthening our sense of place. This investment will help the Lawrence County Historical Society continue its important work maintaining exhibits, records and programs that help celebrate our country's rich heritage," Brown added.