A lot of people are fascinated by history. Maybe they're attracted to a pursuit of the truth. Maybe they're trying to find out more about themselves.

For members of the Manheim Township Historical Society, local history is something meant to be shared with like-minded individuals.

"I think (the interest in history) is seeking a connection," said Ben Webber, who's been the historical society's president for four years. "For some people, their point of departure is their heritage. For others, it's connecting with their interest in in a place or a thing or people. It offers an almost constant stream of euphoric moments. These secrets come out of the woodwork, and it's amazing."

Housed at 601 Granite Run Drive, inside the historic Stoner House at Overlook Community Park, the organization's main purpose is to learn about, educate, preserve and raise public awareness about Manheim Township history. But what makes the society such an active force in the community is its 90 members.

"Different people get interested in history for different reasons," said Webber. "We try to be a presence and get people to stop and ponder. Most of our members are Manheim Township residents. Some are just interested in the Stoner House. There are other people who are concerned about historical resources being demolished, and they want us to get involved. Others are simply academics, and they want to stay in the loop."

Overseen by a board of directors, the historical society conducts general membership meetings once a year. As an organization, it promotes special educational programs; engages in community events like reenactments; collaborates with other local historical societies; and maintains and improves the Stoner House, which has evolved into a museum for Manheim Township history.

"My favorite part of the society is the camaraderie that comes from understanding our community," said Webber. "I really love sharing this passion for history, coming together with others and learning and sharing information. I love how history has changed my view of my hometown. I love knowing what's happened to our community over the years."

Manheim Township was founded and organized in 1729. Much has changed over the past 300 years, and today Manheim Township is a combination of suburbs and rural areas that is home to 44,000 residents.

"I think Manheim Township's history is one of being blessed with resources," said Webber. "Manheim Township has experienced a great amount of success because of the natural resources that were there. Not all of the townships in the county have that. I also think there's a sense of civic pride here."

There are nearly 60 historical societies similar to Manheim Township's sprinkled throughout Lancaster County. Some are associated with municipalities, and others are related to specific historical topics.

"When the area was settled, a group of prominent citizens divided the county into 16 townships," said Webber. "The citizens were primarily of British decent. The British owned a lot of the land, and the Germans were working the farms. The British gave most of the townships English names, but the only township that was named with a German name was Manheim. Manheim Borough was formed multiple years later, and ever since there's been this confusion, even though Manheim Township and Manheim Borough geographically don't touch at all."

The historical society was born 12 years ago when a group of local volunteers came together and rallied around the saving and restoration of the Stoner House.

For additional information about the Manheim Township Historical Society, go to http://www.mthistoricalsociety.com.