Friends of Pennypacker Mills

The Rev War reenactment held at Pennypacker Mills on May 16 and 17 of this year features prominently in this Swiss news video about America's 250th celebrations. Thank you to our sponsors, Hoover Steel, Aiken & Sons Plumbing, and Landis Markets, who helped the Friends support that event.

“We the People”, il passato che interroga l’America di Trump - RSI 250 anni dopo l'Indipendenza americana, il decano di Georgetown William Treanor rilegge la storia per capire l'America di Trump: democrazia, Padri Fondatori e "We the People".

In 1946, Pennypacker Mills was honored with a historic marker from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, recognizing its remarkable place in American history. During the Revolutionary War, the property served as an encampment site for the Continental Army and as George Washington’s headquarters. The property later became the home of Samuel W. Pennypacker, who served as Governor of Pennsylvania from 1903 to 1907. A noted historian and preservationist, Governor Pennypacker, was deeply committed to documenting and protecting Pennsylvania’s past. Friday, April 24 marks the beginning of National Historic Marker Weekend, a statewide celebration dedicated to raising awareness, encouraging preservation, and promoting the care of local history at sites like Pennypacker Mills.

We are so grateful for our returning sponsors of the Revolutionary War Event! You can be a sponsor too! Visit our website: https://www.friendsppm.org/revolutionary-war-event.html

Sponsored by the Friends of Pennypacker Mills!

Step back into the 18th century and experience history! Join us at Pennypacker Mills for our Revolutionary War Weekend, featuring exciting battle reenactments both days of the event.
📅 Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
📅Sunday, May 17 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Watch musket fire crack across the landscape, explore Revolutionary War encampments, and meet soldiers and civilians who bring the past to life. Learn how everyday people experienced the fight for independence through engaging living history demonstrations and battlefield action.

✅ Free entry
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly • Outdoor event
📍 Pennypacker Mills, 5 Haldeman Rd, Schwenksville, PA 19473

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and stories of the American Revolution—right here in Montgomery County!

Growing around Pennypacker Mills, the Siberian squill, also known as Wood Squill, is a small, cold-hardy, bulbous perennial celebrated for its bright blue, bell-shaped spring flowers that droop downward. These charming flowers bloom in Pennsylvania during March and April, often attracting bees and many beneficial insects. Frequently mistaken for the Glory of the Snow, which blossoms around the same time, these two flowers can be distinguished by the color of their anthers, or pollen sacs. The Wood Squill features dark blue anthers, whereas the Glory of the Snow typically have pale yellow or orange ones. Symbolizing hope, renewal, and the arrival of warmer days, the Siberian squill brings a sense of optimism and beauty to the landscape.

On April 14, 1903, the Pennsylvania General Assembly, under the Governorship of Samuel W. Pennypacker, elevated the Bureau of Mines to the Department of Mines. Moving from a Bureau to a Department provided greater political autonomy and resources, ensuring more rigorous inspections of mining operations, the approval of safety plans, and the certification of miners. This was seen as a critical step in strengthening regulatory authority. The upgrade also allowed focused management of mine safety, accident investigation and environmental protection during a period of massive industry growth.

The Pennypacker siblings shared a remarkable bond, their lives interwoven with a tapestry of experiences, love, and mutual respect. They had a tradition of writing letters to one another, a testament to their deep affection and connection despite the distances that sometimes separated them. Josephine Whitaker Pennypacker, with her keen mind and affectionate nature, made her dearly loved by her family. Eliza Broomall Pennypacker, lovingly referred to as "Lida," was celebrated for her great intelligence, stout heart, and unselfish devotion to her family. Anna Maria Whitaker Pennypacker, known as "Anna" to those closest to her, was a fierce advocate for the underdog, tirelessly championing causes she held dear. Bevan Aubrey Pennypacker, or "Aubrey" to his sisters, was the embodiment of reliability and courtesy, his kind spirit, patience, and integrity shining through in all his endeavors. Together, the Pennypacker siblings traversed life's many chapters, supporting each other through triumphs and trials alike. As we celebrate National Siblings Day on April 10th, we are reminded that siblings provide our biggest competition, our strongest encouragement, and never fail to recall our most embarrassing moments.

On April 9, 1843, the world welcomed a man whose life was destined for prominence—Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker. He was said to have the slyest and most mischievous of smiles and was one of the keenest-witted men in Pennsylvania. Pennypacker's philosophical musings, humorous quips, and ability to find humor in life earned him a reputation as one of the finest after-dinner speakers in the East. Pennypacker's career was marked by relentless activity and significant accomplishments. After becoming a lawyer in 1866, he was elected Judge in the Court of Common Pleas in Philadelphia and ascended to the position of President Judge in 1889. His remarkable journey continued as he became the Governor of Pennsylvania in 1903. Even in his later years, Pennypacker never abandoned his deep love for the study of law and history, making him an authority on numerous subjects and a prolific writer. His legacy remains a testament to a life well-lived, characterized by wisdom, humor, and an enduring pursuit of knowledge. Today we celebrate what would have been his 183rd birthday.

Indeed, a lovely place to stroll the grounds, and while you're there, take a tour of the historic mansion. It's open every day except Monday and it's free to tour (although a very small $2 donation is encouraged).