Lebanon Co. Wooden Nickel History Trail celebrates America250PA. See who is participating

Visit Lebanon Valley announced a special Lebanon County Wooden Nickel History Trail in honor of the America250 celebration.

Twelve participating historical sites, museums and businesses throughout Lebanon County will distribute commemorative wooden nickels to visitors. Officials said the program’s goal is to help connect visitors to local history “in a fun and memorable way while celebrating the nation’s milestone anniversary.”

“Our tokens are more than souvenirs,” Jennifer Kuzo, president of Visit Lebanon Valley, said in a release. “They’re tangible reminders of the role that Lebanon County has played in shaping our region. We hope they inspire people to explore our local sites and feel more connected to the larger American story. Celebrate 250 in the Valley and see if you can collect all 5 nickels!”

Each nickel features one of five unique designs marking America’s semi quincentennial and highlights the importance of preserving a shared history in the Lebanon Valley. The five nickels feature an American flag, a Railroad, a Miner’s Hat, a Pretel, and an Iron/Steel Foundry token.

Wooden nickels first popped up during the Great Depression to boost local economies when regular currency was scarce. Officials said the phrase “don’t take any wooden nickels” was a playful warning to be cautious in one’s dealings to avoid deception. The nickels later became “quirky giveaways and symbols of civic pride.”

“Visitors can collect nickels from multiple participating sites, creating an engaging way for families to tour historic locations, learn about the past, and celebrate the spirit of America250 together,” officials said in the release.

The nickels are free to visitors; paid entry to each site is not required. Officials said the trail will continue into 2026 while supplies last.

Participating locations include:

● Annville Free Library

● Cornwall Iron Furnace

● Indiantown Gap National Cemetery (Nickels will be distributed at the Administration Office, which is located on the right side of the main road shortly after entering the cemetery)

● Isaac Meyer Homestead

● Lebanon County Historical Society

● Lebanon Farmers Market- at Candy Rama, Foltz Pretzels, Nomadix Coffee, and S. Clyde Weaver.

● Mount Gretna Historical Society

● Myerstown Library

● PA National Guard Military Museum – Members of the public are highly encouraged to visit the Fort Indiantown Gap installation and its military museum which requires passage through the installation’s access-control point. Those without military identification must park and go inside the Visitor Center where personnel will scan their driver’s license to conduct a background check. Passengers under 18 do not need to be vetted or have ID as long as they are with someone with a compliant ID or visitor’s pass.

● Seltzer’s Smokehouse Meats Retail Store

● Visit Lebanon Valley

● Wertz Candies

For more details on the History Trail and operating hours of the participating locations, residents can visit LebanonPa250.com.