Our local history
Discover the Valley’s roots, industry and community spirit through stories and photographs from the Chamber’s local history collection.
From Gumtown to New Bethlehem
The community was originally known as Gumtown. The Chamber’s local history recounts how early resident Henry Nolf earned the nickname “Gum” after cutting down a gum tree in search of honey. Nolf operated a grist mill, sawmill and store, helping build the early settlement.
A name with a story
A local account connects the name Bethlehem with Moravian traveler Frederick Post, who crossed the region in 1756. The postal authority later added “New” to distinguish this community from Bethlehem in eastern Pennsylvania. New Bethlehem was incorporated in 1853.
A peanut butter heritage
Harry B. DeViney founded the H.B. DeViney Company in 1946, using the former New Bethlehem Brewing Company facility to make Kitchen King peanut butter. The facility later became part of The J.M. Smucker Company. Peanut butter manufacturing remains an important part of the community’s story.
Resilience after the flood
The July 1996 flood damaged homes and closed Redbank Valley High School while the community worked to recover. A high-water mark near the school is a lasting reminder of that difficult chapter and the neighbors who helped one another rebuild.
A community tradition grows
Later in 1996, the Chamber and Smucker’s employees, led by plant manager Julia Sabin, helped organize a peanut butter festival. The annual celebration brings together crafters, food vendors, music, a parade and family activities. Visit the festival website for its current schedule.