BIRDSBORO PA – An “open house” party for Pennsylvania’s 344th birthday – an observance that some visitors otherwise know as “Charter Day” – will be held locally March 9 (2025; Sunday) from noon to 4 p.m. at Daniel Boone Homestead, 400 Daniel Boone Rd.
The event pays homage to the day in 1681 when William Penn received his land grant for Pennsylvania from King Charles II of England. The Birdsboro landmark is one of several historic sites statewide that are offering one-day free admission to the public in celebration.
The Boone open house is intended to be a living history activity. It features 18th Century demonstrations, trades craftpersons, and hands-on involvement, including operation of its unique Bertolet Sawmill.
Additional demonstrations include leather working, sewing, wool dyeing, gunsmithing, and blacksmithing. For a second year, Stonehouse History also joins the open house to demonstrate tape loom weaving and traditional woodworking.
Visitors can tour the spring cellar and Boone House as they learn about the three families who lived there during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Other buildings in the historic area will be open for viewing too. They including the smokehouse, blacksmith shop, and homestead barn.
Watch Trades People at Work
Throughout the historic site, visitors additionally can learn about the skillful work of a blacksmith, the detailed work of a leatherworker, and the intricate work of a gunsmith. The three-room Bertolet Log House is also available for touring, and as a place to enjoy colonial toys and games.
Open house volunteers and staff members will operate the sawmill, which the homestead calls a “rare piece of machinery,” at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The sawmill is the oldest operating, water-powered, vertical blade sawmill in Pennsylvania, and is one of three in the United States. It was moved to the Homestead in 1972 from its original location in the Oley Valley.
Although no admission is charged, donations are welcome, the homestead notes. It also points out that:
- No pets other than service animals are allowed;
- No smoking is permitted on the site; and
- Several open house activities and demonstrations may depend on acceptable weather dependent.
The homestead suggests visitors check its website or Facebook page for latest details.
The open house is being presented and funded by the Daniel Boone Homestead Associates, a local non-profit organization It. operates the 579-acre property owned by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission.
Photos provided to Travels With The Post by the Daniel Boone Homestead Associates
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