Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art Altoona

09/03/2026

09/02/2026

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art had a wonderful time this past weekend at A Mansion Divided: Blair County in the Civil War! Staff and volunteers enjoyed exploring the creative side of Civil War history with visitors, learning about the painters, sketch artists, war correspondents, and battlefield photographers who documented such a pivotal time in America’s history.

From illustrations to games to other popular pastimes, it was fascinating to share how creativity and recreation were woven into everyday life during the era. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our living history tent to learn and create. We are grateful to be a part of bringing local art and history to life. Check out Baker Mansion for more event photos!

09/02/2026

Here are a few of the artists the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art showcased this past weekend at A Mansion Divided: Blair County in the Civil War! Special thanks to the Blair County Historical Society at Baker Mansion for allowing us to share the stories of wartime correspondents, sketch artists, painters, and photographers. It is because of these individuals that citizens stayed informed about America's deadliest conflict. Stay tuned for SAMA event photos!

08/30/2026

📅 August 29–30
⏰ 11AM–5PM
📍 Baker Mansion, Altoona

Support the educational missions of the Blair County Historical Society and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Altoona!

08/26/2026

Join the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art this weekend at Baker Mansion for A Mansion Divided: Blair County in the Civil War on August 29–30 from 11AM–5PM!

SAMA will be bringing the past—and art—to life with an interactive living history tent. Come meet a civilian painter, war correspondent, and tintype photographer while taking part in free, hands-on activities throughout the weekend! Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a fun weekend for the whole family, there's something for everyone. Come experience the sights, sounds, stories, and creativity of the Civil War era!

SAMA Living History Tent:
🎨 Artwork Demonstrations
🖍️ Coloring Activities
🧥 Clothing Dress-Up
🎲 Games & Pastimes

Baker Mansion Activities:
🏛️ Guided Mansion Tours
🎺 Authentic Civil War Music
🔥 Weapon Demonstrations
📷 Tintype Photo Sessions
🍴 Food Vendors

📅 August 29–30
⏰ 11AM–5PM
📍 Baker Mansion, Altoona

Support the educational missions of the Blair County Historical Society and the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Altoona!

08/25/2026

Another round of applause for the SAMA Story: 50 Years in the Making!

What's your SAMA story?

Have you attended an exhibition, brought your child to an education program, purchased artwork, volunteered, served on the board, or simply spent an afternoon at one of our museums?

Tell us your favorite SAMA memory in the comments. 👇

08/20/2026

Did you catch today's segment with Dawn and Scott on the 50th Anniversary!?

For 50 years, SAMA has brought art beyond our galleries and into our communities. SAMA's story has always been about people: The artists. The educators. The volunteers. The supporters. The communities. Watch the story of how the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art became what it is today from the people who were a part of it from the beginning!

Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/KZM0AhHRSMo?si=mg_40Vt08CZc7RfI

Written and produced by Dawn Pellas, and shot and edited by Scott Reilly. Thank you to all interviewees, staff, board, and contributors of this project!

08/17/2026

Look who's featured in this month's edition of The Convention Connection Newsletter! Blair County Convention Center shines a Blair County Spotlight on the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, celebrating out exhibitions, educational programs, and lasting impact on the region’s arts community!

THE CONVENTION CONNECTION The Blair County Convention Center’s Newsletter Click below to view this month’s newsletter! August 2026 Newsletter Welcome to The Convention Connection: Your monthly inside look at everything happening at the Blair County Convention Center. From upcoming events to behi...

08/17/2026

Happy National Nonprofit Day! Today, we recognize the vital contributions of nonprofits in making our communities stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. From providing essential services to championing causes close to our hearts, nonprofits play a crucial role in shaping a better world for all. Let's celebrate the dedicated board of trustees, staff, volunteers, and supporters who work tirelessly to create positive change and make a lasting impact. Together, we can continue to lift each other up and build a brighter future for generations to come!