Step Back in Time at Historic Poole Forge Park
Lancaster County is known for its rich agricultural history. As you tour our beautiful countryside, you'll see family farms dotting the landscape that have worked the land for generations. Early American agricultural operations relied heavily on materials like iron, and iron production became an important industry in Pennsylvania, due in large part to abundant iron ore deposits. At Historic Poole Forge Park in eastern Lancaster County, you can visit an iron forge complex typical of the colonial-era.
Situated along the Conestoga Creek less than 30 minutes from After Eight Bed and Breakfast, Historic Poole Forge was once a sprawling, vibrant iron plantation encompassing hundreds of acres. Today, this well-maintained property is spread out over 26 acres and includes the stately ironmaster’s mansion, the paymaster’s house, two tenant houses, a spring house and the original lime kilns – all built over 200 years ago. Historic Poole Forge Park is a township-owned recreational area with a playground, picnic pavilion, walking trail, ball fields, a gazebo and many gardens. This peaceful, idyllic setting is also the perfect backdrop for weddings and special events.
Covered bridge enthusiasts will be interested in visiting the single-span bridge on the property that dates back to 1859. The bridge is nearly 100 feet long and features a double Burr arch truss design. Now carrying only foot traffic, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Historic Poole Forge hosts numerous public events throughout the year, such as a spring tea, a trout derby, a car cruise and seasonal plant swaps. The annual Poole Forge Day on September 14 is an old-fashioned, family-oriented day of fun with a little something for everyone – goat races, pet and pony cart parade, pony rides, puppet shows, wildlife exhibits and shows, barrel trains, antique brass cars, and craft and food vendors. Many of those who will attend include neighbors from the Amish community.
Historic Poole Forge will celebrate the holidays on December 14 with a Welsh Christmas. The ironmaster's mansion and grounds will be open for self-guided, illuminated tours. View creative holiday exhibits and trees that decorate the rooms of the mansion while enjoying refreshments, live music, and photos with Santa in an antique sleigh. There will be a Christmas Marketplace where you can stroll the grounds and shop from local artisan and craft vendors.
