By David Rockower
Co-owners Dustin Elder and Matt Maris believe that one of the best ways to connect with a community is to learn its local history. Credit: Local Historia.
When people ask me where I am from, and I answer, “State College, PA,” most people will steer the conversation toward football or Penn State. WE ARE (literally) a University town, and we are also so much more than that. And, as residents and fans will also tell you, we are a community filled the great farm-to-table dining, a calendar overflowing with world-class events, ample opportunity for outdoor recreation and a rich history. The history of our region is filled with stories of adventure, mystery, love, innovation and determination. Businesses like Local Historia and The Gamble Mill are a few examples of establishments that have found business opportunities in the region’s past and now make discovering the area’s historical side more immersive and enjoyable for visitors and locals alike.
Connecting to history (and with local partners)
If there’s one thing that entrepreneurs in Happy Valley know, it’s that connecting with local partners and Happy Valley’s ample entrepreneurial resources is a smart idea (plus pretty easy!). Local Historia is proof of this, connecting not just the community with local history, but also their business with others around the region, for greater success for everyone involved.
We strive to create enjoyable experiences and try to show people that learning history can be fun. We believe that one of the best ways to connect with a community is to learn its local history.
Established in 2019 by Matt Maris and Dustin Elder, who are also both high school history teachers, Local Historia makes local history entertaining through walking tours and other engaging content.
“We strive to create enjoyable experiences and try to show people that learning history can be fun. We believe that one of the best ways to connect with a community is to learn its local history,” said Maris.
Local Historia offers a variety of tours, including historical tours, ghost tours and taste of history tours, wherein they collaborate with local businesses. Similarly, Local Historia’s “Hidden Happy Valley” video series is a partnership between the business and area organizations such as Centre County Library & Historical Museum, Schlow Centre Region Library and the Happy Valley Adventure Bureau.
“This series of short, virtual tours focus on the lesser-known history behind some of our favorite spots,” explained Maris.
Using historic properties to build new business opportunities
The Gamble Mill is arguably one of the most exciting developments to grace Bellefonte in recent years — and it’s a development that has not only brought new businesses to downtown, but also reclaimed a historic and beloved space.
When you visit the Gamble Mill, you’re not just experiencing a modern and vibrant community – you’re also connecting with the unique heritage of Bellefonte.
The Gamble Mill dates back to the 1700s, when it was originally built as a gristmill. The mill operated for over a century, grinding grains and producing flour for the local community. In the 1900s, the building was used for feed supply then for beer distribution. In 1975, Ted Conklin saved the mill from being demolished and then renovated it to become a restaurant and pub, starting in the mid-1980s.
The Gamble Mill now houses a restaurant, boutique hotel, cocktail bar, stylish event space, and gift shop. Credit: Chris Virgilio.
The current owners are Jonathan and Chris Virgilio. Today, The Gamble Mill is a newly popular destination for diners, event-goers and visitors, thanks to its restaurant, speakeasy-style, event spaces, leasable spaces and storefronts.
“Beginning in 2020, the building underwent a major renovation to restore its historic charm and modernize its amenities,” said Chris. “In addition to renovating the restaurant, we expanded the Gamble Mill’s offerings to include a boutique hotel, cocktail bar, stylish event space and gift shop. These additions have helped to make The Gamble Mill a vibrant and thriving hub of activity in Bellefonte, and a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.”
“When you visit the Gamble Mill, you’re not just experiencing a modern and vibrant community – you’re also connecting with the unique heritage of Bellefonte,” he added.
