When people want history in Pennsylvania, they normally head to Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell or Gettysburg to admire the battlefields. There are rich narratives to be found in the smaller towns, also, though… And by visiting historic towns, you can learn about the lives of past communities. Here are eight historic towns in PA.
- Valley Forge Historical Park
Wikimedia Commons During the Revolutionary War, the American Contineital Army spent a brutal winter at Valley Forge, near Philadelphia. Today, cabins and other buildings stand as a way to show visitors what it was like to live there.
- Rittenhouse Homestead
Wikimedia Commons The first paper mill in British North America was found in Rittenhouse Homestead. Today, it is part of Germantown, Philadelphia.
- Brookville Historic District
Wikimedia Commons Many buildings along the streets of Brookville are built in a Victorian style.
- Downtown Johnstown Historic District
Wikimedia Commons Johnstown is best known for its flood, but also has five historic districts. Originally settled by Swiss-German immigrants, today it has a variety of landmarks and museums.
- The Amish Village, Lancaster
The Amish Village/ Facebook This twelve-acre village offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Amish life.
- Annville Historic District
Wikimedia Commons The Annville Historic District includes a variety of historic buildings, including a Queen Anne style light house.
- Boiling Springs Historic District
Wikimedia Commons The oldest building in Boiling Spring’s historic district is the grist mill, which was built in 1750.
- Lititz
Wikimedia Commons In 1756, members of the Moravian Church founded Lititz. Today it retains a historic identity and also is one of the coolest small towns in America.
What else would you add to the list? Share in the comments below.
Wikimedia Commons
During the Revolutionary War, the American Contineital Army spent a brutal winter at Valley Forge, near Philadelphia. Today, cabins and other buildings stand as a way to show visitors what it was like to live there.
The first paper mill in British North America was found in Rittenhouse Homestead. Today, it is part of Germantown, Philadelphia.
Many buildings along the streets of Brookville are built in a Victorian style.
Johnstown is best known for its flood, but also has five historic districts. Originally settled by Swiss-German immigrants, today it has a variety of landmarks and museums.
The Amish Village/ Facebook
This twelve-acre village offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Amish life.
The Annville Historic District includes a variety of historic buildings, including a Queen Anne style light house.
The oldest building in Boiling Spring’s historic district is the grist mill, which was built in 1750.
In 1756, members of the Moravian Church founded Lititz. Today it retains a historic identity and also is one of the coolest small towns in America.
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