The first anniversary of the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Heritage Education & Welcome Center (HEWC), situated at 569 Market Street in Johnsonburg, is fast approaching on July 11th, 2025. The HEWC has proven to be a valuable asset to the community, hosting a wide range of events over the past year. These have included diverse exhibits such as "Dairy Farms in Johnsonburg & Wilcox," which showcased the area's rich agricultural heritage, and "Masonic History in Johnsonburg," which delved into the local fraternal organizations' past. The center also partnered with the Lumber Heritage Region to present "Wood on Glass," an exhibit and talk that highlighted the region's logging heritage in a unique way this past February

The Heritage Education & Welcome Center (HEWC) has proven to be a cornerstone of community life in Johnsonburg, serving as a dynamic hub for a wide range of activities that extend beyond its exhibits. The center has held artisan/craft classes, meeting spaces for local organizations, fostering collaboration and community engagement such as, most recently, Community Heart & Soul, Borough Council and meetings for the Community Economic Development Coordinator to conduct, scheduled in the gallery room.

The center has created a sense of community spirit through its festive holiday open houses. These events, featuring a pop-up Makers Market, have showcased the talents of local artisans and provided a platform for them to connect with the community. The inclusion of a live window showcasing a local fiber artisan during these events added a unique and engaging element, further highlighting the center's commitment to supporting local crafts and traditions.

In addition to its role as a cultural and educational hub, the HEWC has played a vital role in supporting the local economy. By serving as the headquarters for the Farmers' & Artisans' Market, the center has provided a crucial platform for local businesses and artisans to showcase and sell their products, thereby fostering economic growth and sustainability within the community. This will be the focus this year for our 2025 season.

As the HEWC approaches its first anniversary, it is poised to celebrate its remarkable achievements in fostering community engagement, preserving local heritage, and promoting education and economic opportunities in Johnsonburg. The center's first year has been marked by its unwavering commitment to serving the community and its success in creating a vibrant and inclusive space that celebrates the unique character and heritage of Johnsonburg. The anniversary promises to be a joyous occasion that honors the center's contributions and looks forward to its continued success in the years to come.

Since the grand opening of the HEWC and Kay & Rose Bakery in 2024, the volunteers have been diligently preparing unit 3.. The progress we've made on this unit can be largely attributed to the tireless efforts of our amazing volunteer group, affectionately known as the "Tuesday Crew." This dedicated group, led by Jim “Jum” Grumley, is composed of retired school teachers and other local residents who generously donate their time and expertise every Tuesday. We are incredibly grateful for their invaluable contribution and unwavering support.