About The Museum
For Our Heroes Who Are Not Forgotten
Located in the historic Cyrus D. Hornberger 1873 Wagon Works building at 198 E. Wyomissing Avenue, Mohnton, PA 19540, the Berks Military History Museum is a community-driven tribute to the men and women of Berks County who answered the call to serve.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to collecting, preserving, and sharing the personal stories, artifacts, uniforms, weapons, and memorabilia of Berks County’s veterans — from World War II through more recent conflicts. More than just objects behind glass, our exhibits bring history to life by focusing on the real people from our own neighborhoods who sacrificed so much to protect freedom.
We believe that every veteran has a story worth remembering. By honoring our local heroes — the ones who grew up on our streets, worked in our factories, and returned (or didn’t) to our communities — we keep their legacy alive for future generations.
A Community Effort
The museum was founded in 2017 through the vision and hard work of a small group of dedicated Berks County residents, led by Mark Gillen. What began as a grassroots idea quickly grew into a vibrant space filled with authentic artifacts, vehicles, and powerful personal stories.
Today, the museum continues to expand. A new Holocaust Museum and Education Center is currently being developed on site to preserve survivor testimonies and educate visitors about the horrors of the Holocaust — ensuring that “never again” remains a living promise.
What You’ll Find Here
- Personal Veteran Stories — Including powerful visits from local WWII heroes such as:
- Clarence Dyanzio (98-year-old gunner in Patton’s 4th Armored Division)
- Richard DeVerter (liberator of Buchenwald Concentration Camp)
- Edward Czechowski (gunner aboard the USS Saufley who helped down six Kamikaze planes)
- Authentic uniforms, weapons, medals, and memorabilia from Berks County service members
- Immersive displays, including a large diorama of the Battle of the Bulge
- A growing archive that connects local history to the broader story of American military service