The Lives and Times of 1846

The exhibition celebrates the 180th anniversary of the founding of Saint Vincent College by Rev. Boniface Wimmer, O.S.B., in the year 1846. In July of that year, Wimmer set out from Germany to establish a monastic community in Pennsylvania. In November, he founded Saint Vincent College and Seminary. But what was life like in Westmoreland County at that time?

Curated by Saint Vincent College history major Isabella Jolly, “The Lives and Times of 1846” invites visitors to explore a year in history with a focus on the lives of everyday people. The exhibition provides a window into the past through newspaper clippings, historic art and artifacts, and a collection of antique bed coverlets that were woven in 1846—including local coverlets made by five different Westmoreland County handweavers.

Following the opening reception on April 16th, the exhibition will remain on display through September, 2026.