Welcome to Hands on Heritage

Hands on Heritage is a unique, woman-owned company that consults on projects that connect communities and conserve cultural legacies. Hands on Heritage is operated by the professional writing team of Robin Van Auken and Lance Van Auken.

We provide content development for exhibits, interactives, and multimedia, image and artifact research, and label text. We work with municipalities and museums, corporations and communities. We adhere to the highest standards of ethical practice as we shepherd your storytelling project to completion. No project is too small, nor too large, to discuss.

Hands on Heritage - with Lance and Robin Van Auken

Hands on Heritage News

Building Community

August 1, 2018 - August 1, 2020

Hands on Heritage is partnering with South Williamsport on a unique project, using collaborative storytelling and listening to connect people to what’s important in their hometown, leading to positive change in their community.

A Unique New Project

October 17, 2018 - April 1, 2021

Hands on Heritage is thrilled to work with the Veterans Memorial Senior Center in Redwood, CA, providing research, writing, and archival services for the veterans’ exhibition, and the NFL alumni exhibit, which overlooks the 49ers former practice field.

New Book in the Works

April 30, 2019

A new book by Robin Van Auken of Hands on Heritage, writing with Lou Hunsinger Jr., is in the works. Commissioned by Muncy Historical Society, the book will detail the history of the West Branch Canal and Muncy Heritage Park.

What They Say …

Hands on Heritage has been a wonderful asset for the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership’s ‘Heart of Williamsport’ project. Robin’ brings experience and professionalism to her services, which are further enhanced by her dynamic enthusiasm and passion for her work. A true pleasure to work with!

Alice Trowbridge, Susquehanna Greenway

I have worked with Robin Van Auken for 10 years on community events designed for our Law Enforcement, Veterans, and Military Personnel while Chief of Staff for a former State Representative, and now with Lycoming County government. She has generously shared her expertise in research, communications and project management.

Tonya Anderson, Lycoming County Government

The Muncy Historical Society has worked with Robin Van Auken on a number of significant, and diverse, projects to benefit the Greater Muncy Area. We have always found her to be diligent, creative, and passionate in her efforts. Robin is easy to work with and has always been very responsive.

Linda Poulton, Muncy Historical Society