The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has approved $73,246 in grants for seven key historic sites in Chester County, Sen. Andy Dinniman’s office announced.

Dinniman, a PHMC commissioner, said $24,935 goes to the Chester County Historical Society; $12,302 goes to Historic Yellow Springs in Chester Springs; $11,308 goes to the American Helicopter Museum and Education Center; $9,888 goes to the Graystone Society in Coatesville; $5,737 goes to the Wharton Esherick Museum in Paoli; $4,636 goes to Historic Sugartown in Malvern; and $4,440 goes to the Mill at Anselma Preservation and Educational Trust in Chester Springs.

“Each of these organizations adds to the quality of life in Chester County in their own unique way,” Dinniman said. “Be it by documenting and exhibiting the history of Chester County, by inspiring young minds about flight, or by showcasing the life and work of one of America’s greatest craftsmen, Chester County’s organizations and museums teach us about our past and prepare us for our future.”

The PHMC also approved placement of one of its familiar blue-with-gold-lettering historical markers at the Devon Horse Show grounds. The marker will tout the Devon Horse Show’s 1896 beginnings and its status as the oldest and largest outdoor multi-breed competition in the nation.

Dinniman is also a member of the Chester County Historical Society’s board of trustees.  He said he’s looking forward to preserving culture and history at both the local and state levels.  The PHMC also approved grants for more than 60 state groups.