The Centre County Historical Society's mission is to collect, interpret, preserve and promote Centre County’s cultural and natural heritage.

Founded in 1904, the Centre County Historical Society, the County’s official historical society, is an educational organization that promotes appreciation and research of Centre County’s historic and natural resources through its properties, collections, programs, publications, and advocacy.

A community and volunteer-based organization, the Society is headquartered in the Centre Furnace Mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This site includes the restored and furnished ironmaster’s home, furnace stack, and landscaped grounds and gardens. Centre Furnace was home to the earliest 18th-century industry: charcoal iron making. In the 19th century Centre Furnace played an important role in the beginnings of Penn State University. The Society also owns and operates the nearby Boogersburg School.