Madame Marie Warenbauer Ferree and her husband Daniel were French Huguenots forced to flee France in 1685. They traveled to Germany, where Daniel passed away. Marie then moved her family to America. In the colonies, Marie received a land grant from William Penn. She settled in Lancaster County and established the town of Paradise in 1712. Madame Marie Warenbauer Ferree is considered the founder of the Pequea Valley.
Ann Wood Henry was the wife of patriot William Henry – Treasurer of Lancaster County. She was heavily involved in assisting her husband provide arms, provisions and more during the Revolutionary War. Upon William’s death, Anne carried out his duties and became the first woman in Pennsylvania to hold public office.
Hannah Weirman Gibbons was a Quaker abolitionist from Bird-in-Hand. For 65 years, Hannah and her husband’s home became a major stop on the Underground Railroad. It is believed that they helped between 900 and 1,000 formerly enslaved people.Lydia Hamilton Smith was the housekeeper and trusted friend to Thaddeus Stevens, a lawyer, abolitionist, and politician. Smith purchased the home adjacent to Stevens’ – it still stands today in downtown Lancaster. Archaeologists we brought in and helped discover an underground cistern on property. They found it was altered to be utilized as a stop on the Underground Railroad. It provided access from an adjacent brewery basement also owned by Stevens. In recognition of the key role both Stevens and Smith played in the Underground Railroad, this site is now listed on the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.
Rosina Hubley created many relief agencies to help people in need in Lancaster. After her husband Joseph died she took over management of the White Sawn Hotel. Later, she developed an organization called The Patriotic Daughters. They supported soldiers by sending them bandages, bedding, and clothing. Rosina, along with the help of the organization, funded and raised the Soldiers and Sailors Monument that stands in the City of Lancaster to this day. The statue pays tribute to the Lancastrian Union soldiers killed during the Civil War.
Lancaster, PA Civil War History
Famous Lancastrians
Ever wonder who you might know from Lancaster?
Historic Places to Visit in Lancaster, PA
Step back in time as you take to the streets and backroads of Lancaster, PA. Our county is rich with history and has many unique…
A Museum for Every Interest in Lancaster, PA
From history to hands on, we’ve got you covered.
Historic Places to Stay in Lancaster, PA
Attention history buffs! It’s one thing to read about history but it’s a whole other experience to stay overnight at a historical hotel, bed &…
History Road Trip: Philadelphia to Gettysburg
Take a road trip from Philadelphia to Gettysburg and pick up bits of American history along the way.
Historic Restaurants in Lancaster, PA
Enjoy a taste of history at one of these long-standing and historic dining establishments.
The Underground Rail Road in Lancaster County, PA
Lancaster County abolitionists and their “safe houses” played a key role in the heritage of the Underground Railroad.
230 North President Avenue Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 392-4633 Website
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Things to Do
Dutch Wonderland
Opening day is April 5! Start planning your family trip to Dutch Wonderland today!
Cozy Accommodations
Osceola Mill House Bed and Breakfast
Formerly the Mill owners’ home in 1766, this boutique property offers cozy guest rooms, a hearty three-course breakfast, and a tranquil setting to rejuvenate your spirit.
Special Event
Rails & Ales
Don't miss Rails & Ales - a craft beer tasting event - at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania on Saturday, April 5!
