CACCC Provides Art and Theater in Johnstown

Looking for art and theater in Johnstown, PA? Then the Community Arts Center of Cambria County is a place worth checking out. CACCC has been providing art, theater, cultural events and educational programs for over 50 years.

The CACCC consists of two buildings. The first is the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center. This building is used to hold the art classes and workshops as well as the pottery studio, glass studio, and a rotating gallery. The second building is the Stutzman Log House. This house has been here since 1834 and was the original home of the Arts Center.

History

In 1834, Reverend Abram Stutzman laid the stone foundation for his new log house. He decided to build near a freshwater spring. This spring flowed from the cellar and formed a pool near to the wagon road. This was the only watering place between Johnstown and Fort Ligonier. Because of this, the log house became known as the “Half Way House” as it was halfway between Johnstown and Mill Creek Furnace. It was a gathering place for travelers as well as the local community.

Stutzman and his wife were hospitable hosts to all those who stopped by their cabin. Over time, the house became a community center where people would gather for events such as games and religious services. Stutzman was able to read and write. Because he could, people came to him for letter-writing and instruction for children.

Recent History

Throughout time, the building was purchased by the Palliser family and eventually willed to the Westmont Borough. In 1968 the Johnstown Arts Associates moved into the log house. Since then, the non-profit organization has promoted the arts by providing a space for artists to exhibit their art.

In 1978, the log house was finished being renovated. It was dedicated and recognized and registered as a historic site. In 1987, the newly named Community Arts Center of Cambria County began a building project to provide more space for the art and activities they provide.

Through the kind generosity of the Goldhaber family and The Jacob Fend Foundation as well as other individuals the Goldhaber-Fend Fine Arts Center was built in November of 1988. This building contains a large exhibit gallery, a library, classroom, pottery studio, weaving studio and a dark room. They built a lovely structure perfect for housing art and theater in Johnstown, PA.

Art and Theater in Johnstown Today

Besides art work, the CACCC provides cultural events, yoga, and theater productions. This weekend and next they are exhibiting the play Sex Please We’re Sixty. An enjoyable comedy worth seeing.

If you are interested in seeing this play or partaking in any of the events or classes check out the CACCC website for times and prices. If you are interested in doing something else in Johnstown while visiting the Arts Center read my previous post.