Welcome to our Online Collections Database!
The Sigal Museum is Northampton County, Pennsylvania’s leading institution of local history, and home to significant collections of pre-European settlement artifacts, decorative arts, textiles, community heritage, and much more. It is one of four sites operated by Northampton County Historical and Genealogical Society in the county seat of Easton. In addition to its exhibits, Sigal Museum is home to the Jane S. Moyer Library and NCHGS Archives, which provide a wealth of resources for students, scholars, and genealogical researchers. Please note that this database reflects a small portion of our collection. For questions and/or more information, please email info@northamptonctymuseum.org or call us directly at (610) 253-1222.
How to Search Our Collection
Keyword Search
The Keyword Search button allows you to perform a general search across multiple fields for any catalog records online. Keyword searches use OR as the default connector between words (e.g. a search for Lebanese Town will return records associated with Lebanese OR Town). If you want to find records where both keywords are found, type in AND between the two words. To search for a specific phrase, be sure to put the phrase within quotes (e.g. "Moravian College Seminary"). You can also use the asterisk (*) as a wildcard (e.g. a search for histor* would come up with records containing history, histories, historical, etc.). Searches are not case sensitive.
Advanced Search
The Advanced Search button can help you be more specific with your search. You can search for a word or phrase within a particular search category or use multiple categories to further narrow down your search results. For example, searching Black in the People field will bring up any records associated with a member of the Black family, without having to sift through black & white photographs. You can also search People and Creator records through Advanced Search. Phrase searching with quotes and use of wildcards (*) are available in Advanced Search.
As we continue to update our database, we recommend beginning your Advanced Search within the Description category for the best results.
Random Images
The Random Images button is a great way to just browse the collection. Each Random Images page displays a random assortment of images from the records online. If something piques your interest, click the thumbnail to view a larger version of the image.
Catalog Searches (Archives / Objects)
The catalog buttons can also help narrow down your search, by only searching with a selected catalog. If you only want to search for Objects, click the Objects button and type in your keyword(s) or phrase. You can also browse records within that catalog without performing a search. Phrase searching, wildcards (*) as well as AND/OR statements are available when performing catalog searches.