The Knauss Homestead, 152 E. Main St., Emmaus, is a local gem which the Knauss Homestead Preservation Society is committed to maintaining.

Recently, the society sponsored a poker bingo party fundraiser at Emmaus Fire Co. No. 1.

The group is also currently promoting a “Win a River Cruise for 2” raffle with the winner to be drawn on Aug. 11.

Completed in 1762, the homestead has long been associated with the growth and development of the Borough of Emmaus.

In 2008, the National Registry of Historic Places first listed the property. Inclusion in the National Registry is an honor but a demanding one. All restoration must comply with rigorous, and often costly, registry standards. The preservation society’s current top priority is painting the exterior of the home. This project requires hand sanding and multiple coats of paint.

Preservation society volunteers share a passion for the appreciation of area heritage. They work with the East Penn School District to bring elementary students to visit the site and they offer brochures outlining the history of the Knauss Homestead. They also continually raise funds to preserve the property for the benefit of current and future area residents.

For more information on the history of the Knauss Homestead or on society membership, visit www.theknausshomestead.org.

Those interested in the cruise raffle should contact Sandy Buss at 610-432-9487.