For the first time in the village's history, McDonald has formed a historical society.
David Martin, a member of the newly organized group, said there has been discussion in recent years about the village needing a historical society.
"There was concern of losing the information on the history of the village with many of the older residents dying. We wanted to talk to some of those residents and get their stories," he said.
The village was established more than 90 years ago and grew in population as the mills brought workers and their families to the community.
An initial meeting attended by eight residents was held in early December about organizing and what the group wanted to do. Plans are to meet at 9 a.m. the first Thursday of each month in the village's community room.
Resident Ellen Surak was one of the community members who spearheaded the effort to form the society. Surak, who has been active with the Girard Historical Society, wanted to see McDonald also have a society.
Martin said village council was informed of what the group wanted to do and received their support.
"Mayor Holmes and village council are behind us and have given us their support," he said.
Martin, who is a member of the Niles Historical Society and familiar with such organizations, said McDonald is a steel town with a rich history with the village growing because of the mills.
"We have a unique community. We need to promote our history and speak with our older residents on what they remember," he said.
Martin said he spoke to the McDonald residents on what Niles' historical society does including having member Audrey John serving as curator of the Ward Thomas House Museum.
Martin said until the group is official they cannot accept any items for possible future display for the public to see.
Martin said since the group's plans have become known, several people have indicated they have old records and also noted Youngstown State University has archives on McDonald.
The idea was also presented at a McDonald Senior Citizen meeting where there was much interest from those in attendance, Martin said.
"We want people to realize the history of Mcdonald is important,' he said.
Plans are to elect officers and gather information to kick the group off the ground.
Martin said the group would like to see more people get involved.
The next meeting is 9 a.m. Thursday. For more information, call 330-530-4878.