National Register Listing

Grove Mansion

a.k.a. Townsend Residence

133 River Rd., Maytown, PA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

architecture
The first drive-in movie theater in the world opened in Camden, New Jersey, just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, in 1933.
Pennsylvania random facts
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania is situated in the southeastern part of the state. It was originally inhabited by the Susquehannock Native American tribe before the arrival of European settlers. In the early 18th century, English Quakers migrating from Maryland and Delaware began to settle in the area, establishing the county in 1729. The county was named after Lancaster, a city in northwest England, reflecting the English origins of many of its settlers.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Lancaster County became known for its thriving agricultural industry. Its fertile soil and mild climate made it ideal for farming, and the county became a leading producer of wheat, corn, and livestock. With the advent of the Pennsylvania Canal and the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad in the 19th century, Lancaster County's agricultural products were easily transported to urban markets, further bolstering its economy.

In the early 20th century, Lancaster County experienced significant industrial growth, particularly in the city of Lancaster. The construction of railroad lines and the expansion of factories contributed to the county's economic prosperity. The county also gained recognition for its manufacturing sector, producing items such as silk textiles, cigars, and furniture.

Today, Lancaster County is known for its rich history and preserved heritage. It is often referred to as the "Garden Spot of America" due to its picturesque landscapes, traditional Amish communities, and thriving tourism industry. The county attracts visitors from around the world who come to experience its historical sites, charming small towns, and delicious Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

  • 1709: Lancaster County was established by William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania.
  • 1730: The city of Lancaster was founded as the county seat.
  • 1751: Lancaster became the capital of Pennsylvania, serving as the seat of government until 1799.
  • 1777: During the American Revolutionary War, Lancaster was briefly the capital of the United States when the Continental Congress fled Philadelphia.
  • 1800s: Lancaster became known for its thriving agricultural industry, with a focus on farming and crop cultivation.
  • 1863: The Battle of Gettysburg, a significant event in the American Civil War, took place just outside of Lancaster County.
  • 1900s: Lancaster County experienced a growth in manufacturing, particularly in the production of textiles, steel, and tobacco products.
  • 1957: The Amish Farm and House, a popular tourist attraction showcasing Amish lifestyle and culture, was established in Lancaster County.
  • 1980s: The tourism industry in Lancaster County began to flourish, attracting visitors with its picturesque countryside and Amish traditions.