8/22/24
Continuing the Journey
As the Grove Farm Residency project progresses, I am thrilled to highlight the creation of three significant historical blocks for Southern Huntingdon County. The Orbisonia & Rockhill Furnace block will capture the industrial heritage of these towns, showcasing their crucial role in the region’s iron and coal industries. Alongside this, the Shirleysburg and Fort Shirley Heritage Association block will celebrate the historical roots of Shirleysburg and its connection to Fort Shirley, emphasizing its enduring legacy.
Additionally, a block dedicated to the East Broad Top Railroad will feature the historic significance of this important transportation line, which played a vital role in the region’s development. These blocks collectively honor the rich histories of these communities, preserving their stories through the art of quilting and contributing to the broader narrative of Southern Huntingdon County.
Block-Orbisonia & Rockhill Furnace
The quilt block collage for Orbisonia and Rockhill Furnace captures the rich industrial and cultural heritage of these twin communities. Photographs provided by Isett’s Heritage Museum highlight key aspects of the area’s history, including two area attractions the iconic East Broad Top Railroad, which played a vital role in the town’s development and coal transportation and the Trolley Museum. The collage also showcases images of the Rockhill Furnace, a symbol of the region’s once-thriving iron industry. Together, these towns reflect a deep connection to their industrial past, while community events and gatherings echo the enduring spirit of resilience and camaraderie. Through these visual stories, the collage honors Orbisonia and Rockhill Furnace’s contributions to Southern Huntingdon County’s historical landscape, preserving the legacy of hard work and shared tradition
Block-The East Broad Top Railroad
The East Broad Top Railroad, established in the 1870s, was crucial to Southern Huntingdon County’s economy, transporting coal and iron and providing jobs in towns like Orbisonia and Rockhill Furnace. After closing in the 1950s due to the decline of coal mining, the railroad has recently undergone revitalization, now serving as a heritage attraction that boosts local tourism and preserves its historical legacy while contributing to the area’s economic renewal.
Block-Historic Shirleysburg
The Shirleysburg, PA quilt block collage combines historical images from Isett’s Heritage Museum and the Fort Shirley Heritage Museum, offering a glimpse into the town’s industrial and educational past. The block highlights key industries that sustained the community over the decades, from early manufacturing to local trades. Additionally, it features photographs of classes from the area school, once a bustling center of education, now repurposed as a vibrant community space.
Block-Fort Shirley Heritage Museum
The Fort Shirley Heritage Museum serves as a vital link to the history of Shirleysburg, housing a rich collection of local artifacts that tell the story of the town’s past. Through its exhibits, the museum preserves the legacy of Fort Shirley, an important colonial outpost, and showcases a variety of items related to the area’s early settlers, industries, and daily life. From tools and documents to personal belongings, the museum provides visitors with a glimpse into Shirleysburg’s development over the centuries. As a hub for local history, it plays a key role in keeping the town’s heritage alive for future generations.