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Walk through history as we guide you to things to learn, places to discover, and events that help connect us to our rich heritage.
Widely recognized as a gem of our region and a national treasure, Moravian Church Settlements--Bethlehem is the United States' newest World Heritage site and one of only 26 across the country. Today, the 18th century Moravian buildings that have served as the foundation of our city for more than 280 years stand alongside iconic destinations like Independence Hall, the Statue of Liberty, Stonehenge and the Pyramid Fields of Egypt because of their outstanding universal value.
As stewards for many of Bethlehem's historic treasures, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites is responsible for the long-term care of 20 buildings and sites, including several withing the new World Heritage site. The restoration and preservation of these properties is perpetual, and it's something that comes with significant cost.
The Goal
The $7.25 million Taking the World Stage campaign is designed to fund essential infrastructure and capital improvements needed at these historic properties, as well as support HBMS’ Heritage Fund, an endowment that helps ensure we can care for the buildings in perpetuity and provide world-class visitor experiences for generations to come. The money raised will go toward completing restoration and preservation projects that will enhance Moravian Church Settlements–Bethlehem’s World Heritage status, as well as help ensure the long-term care of all Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites’ buildings and the 70,000 artifacts in its collections.
Request a meeting"Since Its founding in 1741, the Moravian settlement in Bethlehem has stood for the ageless values of education, equality, industry, integrity and spirituality. Today, Historic Moravian Bethlehem symbolizes the resilience of a community built on those universal values - Ideals that remain essential and relevant to people around the world. Through the Taking the World Stage campaign, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites is preparing our community to share those values with visitors from around the world....I'm grateful for the broad support the campaign has received to date, and encourage others in our community to join in supporting this important regional initiative."
— Jean-Claude Dubacher
Chairman and CEO of B. Braun of America, Inc.
Overlook on History
Overlook On History
An inspiring new destination designed by David Scott Parker, FAIA, in collaboration with Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites (HBMS).
At the gateway of the Colonial Industrial Quarter – America’s earliest industrial center – a new chapter is unfolding.
After two decades of dormancy, the 1782/1834 Grist Miller’s House has been restored and revitalized. Now, as part of the Taking the World Stage campaign, HBMS is proud to introduce the Overlook on History – a stunning architectural link between the Grist Miller’s House and the Luckenbach Mill.
This elevated multi-functional, ADA-accessible programming space will offer:
- Unobstructed views of the Antes Mill ruins and Colonial Industrial Quarter
- A seamless visitor experience with exhibitions, artisan showcases, and educational space
- Thermopane glass panels (made by Brombal) blend with the historic setting while enhancing interpretation of Bethlehem’s industrial past as a 360-degree classroom
Designed with care to avoid archaeologically sensitive areas below, the Overlook blends modern design with historical reverence, illuminating Bethlehem’s legacy as a center of innovation, artistry, and community.
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Why Brombal?
“Reconnecting the Luckenbach Mill and Miller’s House posed structural, mechanical, and historical challenges, especially since the link had to span archaeologically sensitive ground. These constraints shaped every design choice – especially the selection of windows – once it became clear how remarkable the south-facing Overlook on History would be as a viewing point of the Colonial Moravian Industrial Quarter, part of a newly designated World Heritage Site. To realize this vision, Brombal – renowned for precision and elegance – is crafting the Overlook’s triple-glazed glass walls. Their low-iron, triple thermopane glass offers optimal clarity, strength, insulation, and sound control while blocking 99% of UV light. The slender, thermally broken steel frames and structure of the building echo Bethlehem’s industrial legacy, blending modern craftsmanship with respect for the past. Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites’ Overlook on History Gallery marks Brombal’s second U.S. museum commission, joining projects for the Art Institute of Chicago and Venice, Italy’s Galleria dell’ Accademia. When it opens this summer, alongside America’s 250th Anniversary, the Overlook will stand as both a literal and symbolic lens – reflecting Bethlehem’s history and framing its future.”
– David Scott Parker, Architect
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A Vision Realized - with your help
David S. Parker, a well-known architect and specialist in historical preservation, has volunteered his services to design the Overlook on History, where visitors will be introduced to the Colonial Industrial Quarter and its stories of industrial ingenuity.
David Parker was mentored by, and a protégé of, the late Ralph Schwarz, whose vision for historic Bethlehem created the foundation for today’s recognition as an international treasure. Parker serves as a trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and has been involved with the restoration and preservation of innumerable national Historic Landmarks ranging from the U.S. Treasury to the Mark Twain House and is presently working on the Wanton-Lyman-Hazard House, the oldest residence in Newport, RI. We are honored that he has agreed to partner with Christine Ussler on the current project.
The Overlook on History is more than a building – it’s a portal into Bethlehem’s industrial and cultural heritage. Together with the newly established Ralph G. Schwarz Interpretation Center for Colonial Industries, this project honors one of Bethlehem’s most visionary preservationists and serves as a lasting tribute to his legacy.
Project highlights:
- Construction of the Overlook on History to seamlessly connect the Grist Miller’s House and the Luckenbach Mill
- Offer meaningful recognition of donors who made this project and the rest of the Taking the World Stage Campaign possible
- Creation of hands-on exhibits, workshops, and programs
Your Support at Work
Learn more about the projects that your support helps fund.
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