Silver Lake Amusement Park Newspaper feature

Silver Lake Amusement Park?

One unexpected discovery during our research for “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds” was that two York residents, LeGrand Dutcher and C.L. McKenzie, made a serious effort to establish an amusement park at Silver Lake in Lewisberry. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, amusement parks enjoyed a golden age,…

Silver Lake c. 1913

Unveiling Silver Lake’s History: A Journey Through Time and Postcards

Kathy and I, in our book “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds,” trace the evolution of Silver Lake from a functional mill pond to a seasonal summer colony, and eventually to a small, permanent year-round community. This endeavor required a multifaceted approach. We relied on recollections from long-time residents, modern technology,…

The Torchia Legacy: How Henry Andrew Torchia, Esq. Preserved Family Unity at Silver Lake

In the aftermath of World War II, amidst the echoes of victory and the remnants of conflict, the Torchia family embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on the Silver Lake community. At the heart of this tale lies the visionary spirit of Henry Andrew Torchia, Esq., whose fervent desire to nourish…

William Grant Stonesifer: A Legacy of Resilience and Entrepreneurs

On May 31, 1866, amidst the picturesque landscapes of Adams County, Pennsylvania, William Grant Stonesifer entered the world. Named in homage to Union General Ulysses S. Grant’s victory at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865, which ended the U.S. Civil War, young William’s middle name carried a legacy of triumph and leadership. The tradition…

William Penn statue Philadelphia City Hall

The Penn Family and Pennsylvania Colony

William Penn, a notable English writer, religious thinker, and Quaker, left an indelible mark on American history by establishing the Province of Pennsylvania during the British colonial era. His upbringing, steeped in education and Quaker values, profoundly influenced his commitment to democracy and religious freedom. In 1681, King Charles II granted Penn a substantial tract…

Unveiling Family Histories: The Impact of Online Genealogy Records

Unveiling Family Histories: The Impact of Online Genealogy Records

Ancestry DNA kits are currently on sale for just $39 until May 12th, a significant discount from their regular price. This deal presents a golden opportunity for individuals to delve into their family histories at a fraction of the usual cost. “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds” was made possible, in…

Launching ‘The History of Silver Lake’: Join Us on Our Journey!

Today marks the long-awaited launch of “The History of Silver Lake as Told Through Its Deeds”. The past weekend has been a whirlwind of activity as we finalized the last-minute preparations, meeting with indie bookstore owners, social media influencers, and local historians to kickstart our book’s journey into the world. Our discussions with the historians…