Historic Mifflin House & Farm Saved for Future Generations
Preservation Celebration Marks the Beginning of Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park Development

Wrightsville, PA — On Friday, September 27th, Susquehanna National Heritage Area (SNHA) celebrated a significant milestone in the preservation of Pennsylvania’s heritage. More than 60 people gathered with SNHA staff at the historic Mifflin House & Farm for a Preservation Celebration & Initial Groundbreaking. This event marked the culmination of a seven-year effort to protect this invaluable site from development and set the stage for its transformation into the Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park—a project expected to span five to ten years.

The Mifflin House, a documented stop on the Underground Railroad, and the 160-year-old barn will be rehabilitated and eventually opened to the public as part of this expansive project. A museum showcasing an extraordinary collection of Susquehanna River art will have a home on the property, bringing to life the region’s rich cultural and natural history. The 79-acre landscape will feature walking trails interpreting the Underground Railroad and the Civil War battle that occurred in Wrightsville, a pivotal event in the 1863 Gettysburg Campaign.

Private, state, and federal sources have already committed more than $8 million to the projected $25 million development.

“This is a landmark moment for the preservation of not only our local history but also for the broader narrative of American history,” remarked Mark Platts, President & CEO of SNHA. “We look forward to working with the community to ensure the Mifflin House continues to be a beacon of cultural significance for generations to come.”

The first phase of development, set to begin this fall, includes the construction of a new driveway, 30 parking spaces, and an ADA-accessible pathway through the farmstead. These improvements will open the historic site to the public for the first time in more than 225 years, with preview tours expected to begin in spring 2025.

About the Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park

The Susquehanna Discovery Center & Heritage Park will be a world-class destination within America’s 55th National Heritage Area. The site will feature a gateway visitor center housed in a historic Pennsylvania bank barn, introducing visitors to the unique stories of Lancaster and York Counties. The River Art Museum will showcase over 400 years of Susquehanna River art, while a Learning Center will be located within the historic Underground Railroad station. The surrounding 79-acre Heritage Park will provide immersive interpretation of the 1863 Battle of Wrightsville, combining historic preservation, inclusive storytelling, economic development, outdoor recreation, land conservation, and watershed protection into a cohesive experience.

About Susquehanna National Heritage Area

The Susquehanna National Heritage Area is a designated State and National Heritage Area dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and sharing the natural, cultural, and historic resources of Lancaster and York Counties. Through collaborative efforts, SNHA fosters a deeper appreciation for the unique communities and landscapes along the Susquehanna River, ensuring that future generations can explore and learn from this rich heritage.

Contact:
Peter Miele, Senior Project Leader, Susquehanna National Heritage Area
pmiele@susqnha.org
717-252-0227 x107