ST. MARYS — Leadership Elk Cameron program participants had the opportunity in a recent meeting to learn about the history and preservation in Elk and Cameron counties.

Ray Beimel, historical society director and owner of Beimel Photography, presented a program on the history of Elk and Cameron counties. He touched on the resources that were essential to the development of the region such as railroads, mining, farming, rivers, the tannery and lumber. He continued to present information regarding the history of how businesses began and how some are still viable today.

In preparation for the day, participants were asked to interview an individual about the history of the area, their experiences and how things have changed over time in both counties. Each participant summarized their interview and gave a three minute presentation to the group.

The class spent the afternoon in Ridgway, beginning with lunch at the Elks sponsored by the Ridgway/Elk County Chamber of Commerce. Dale Fox, who has been instrumental with the Ridgway Heritage Council, took the group on a walking tour of Ridgway’s Historic District and Main Street. Stops included the Udarbe Complex, the Towers Victorian Inn, private residences, the Ridgway Public Library, YMCA, the Clarion River Trading Company, and the Shop on Main.

The mission of Leadership Elk Cameron is to educate its participants in the strengths and weaknesses of the region in order to develop informed, civic-oriented volunteers to help direct the future of Elk and Cameron counties. More than 130 individuals have completed the program since 2008.

For more information about Leadership Elk Cameron, contact the Community Education Center at 781-3437 or cec@communityedcenter.com.