Tuesday, February 26, 2002 - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania - U.S. Representative Mike Doyle (PA-18) announced today that he was successful in securing $20,000 for the Dormont Historical Society. These funds will assist the Dormont Historical Society in the further enhancement of the organization and its activities.

"The Dormont Historical Society is of great significance to the community of Dormont and the individuals and families who live there," stated Rep. Doyle. "The historical knowledge of any community provides a foundation of pride and understanding for its residents. I am pleased to assist them in fulfilling their mission by obtaining some of the necessary funding needed to enhance and expand their capabilities."

The Dormont Historical Society was founded by Muriel Moreland, a lifelong resident of the Borough. Muriel taught language arts for 39 years in the Dormont middle schools. After retiring, she volunteered as a storyteller and creative writing instructor in the schools.

In 1999, Ms. Moreland focused on collecting Dormont-related records and memorabilia in a structured way and established the Dormont Historical Society. The organization's original site was at Ms. Moreland's home but moved after a few months to the Dormont Public Library. In 2001, the Dormont Historical Society was given a room in the basement of the Dormont Municipal Center. Volunteers helped to renovate the room which now displays artifacts on the walls and in cases.

"Receiving these funds means that we will be able to acquire the materials for properly preserving our documents and to purchase the equipment needed to fully organize and display our memorabilia so that our collections will be more accessible to those who visit our facility," stated Ms. Moreland. "We are very grateful to Congressman Doyle for securing these funds that will help keep Dormont's history alive."

An official open house was held in May 2001. The room is open 10:00 a.m. to Noon Thursdays and 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday. Dormont Historical Society members will open the room at other times if requested and will also schedule group tours. The Society currently has more than 300 members who are located all over the world including Africa and Belgium.

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