Frederick Sheeler appointed Board President of Berks History Center

The Berks History Center has announced the appointment of Frederick (Fred) Sheeler as its new board president, effective June 25, 2024.

“Fred brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to our mission of preserving and sharing the rich history of Berks County,” said BHC Executive Director, Benjamin Neely. “I am confident that under his leadership, the Berks History Center will continue to thrive and expand its impact on the community. We look forward to the exciting opportunities and growth that lie ahead.”

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A lifelong resident of Berks County, Fred grew up in Spring Township and graduated from Wilson High School in 1980. He pursued higher education at Kutztown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in history in 1984. Following his graduation, Mr. Sheeler embarked on a career in the banking industry, working for several local banks before owning and operating Hamburg Home Mortgage Service for 15 years. In 2008, he was elected as the Berks County Recorder of Deeds.

Fred’s passion for history was kindled in his childhood, inspired by the stories shared by his parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, some of which dated back to the early 1900s. During his high school years, he became an avid reader of George M. Meiser IX’s historical series in the Reading Eagle, particularly the “Passing Scene” series, which deepened his fascination with local history. His extensive historical knowledge has led him to restore several historic buildings and establish the Hamburg Main Street Program. Additionally, he is a dedicated antique collector and historical re-enactor, bringing the characters of old-time radio programs from the early 1940s to life at Reading’s World War II Airshow.

Since 2008, Fred has leveraged his expertise and passion for history in his role as the County Recorder of Deeds. He has been instrumental in maintaining, restoring, and digitizing countless years of county land records, ensuring their accessibility to the public through computer imaging and web access. His efforts have also included securing electronic backups of these records outside the county, safeguarding them from potential disasters.

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“My interest in local Berks County History began with stories told to me as a young boy by my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. Remembering and re-telling their stories helps to keep their memory close to me,” said Sheeler. “I think that is something all of us hope for – that our own personal story may be passed down to future generations. What we do today to preserve the history of our recent ancestors hopefully will set the stage for our grandchildren and future generations to do the same for us.”

Other board changes included naming Stephen Yarnell as Vice President. BHC also welcomed three new members to its board: Nancy Omaha Boy, Alan Shuman, and Edwin Stock.

The Berks History Center is located at 940 Centre Avenue, Reading, Pa., 19601. Hours of operation are Wednesdays to Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Berks Weekly
Berks Weekly
Berks Weekly is an independent and locally owned digital newspaper covering the City of Reading and Berks County. Download the mobile app: berksweekly.com/app
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