Uncharted Lancaster

Uncharted Lancaster Discovering history through adventure.

In the world of ghost stories, Columbia, PA, has carved out a chilling niche, and this reader submission only adds to it...
12/21/2024

In the world of ghost stories, Columbia, PA, has carved out a chilling niche, and this reader submission only adds to its spectral lore. This spine-tingling encounter involves a spectral little girl, witnessed in an apartment on Avenue I, where two roommates experienced the inexplicable, ranging from disembodied footsteps to flickering lights.

In the middle of the night, one of them saw the unmistakable figure of a little girl standing in a closet. Even after blinking and looking away, the apparition remained. In a burst of bravery, he turned on the light and searched the wardrobe but found nothing.

The story took a compelling turn when TAPS investigated the Market House across the alley. Witnesses there also reported seeing a little girl who would vanish around corners. Their story, weaving together personal encounters and community legends, suggests a haunting that spans beyond the walls of one apartment, entwining with the very fabric of Columbia's ghostly history. Click the link to read the whole story. https://unchartedlancaster.com/spectral-child-of-columbia/

Lancaster County has several towns with peculiar names. This series examines their curious etymology. Next up: In*******...
12/21/2024

Lancaster County has several towns with peculiar names. This series examines their curious etymology. Next up: In*******se.

This Leacock township community began life in 1754 when a small settlement with a tavern called Cross Keys was established at the crossroads of the King’s Highway (now Old PhiladelphiaPike/Route 340) and Newport Pike (now Route 772). The spot soon became known as Cross Keys after the tavern.

In 1814, the town’s name was changed to In*******se, but no one today is precisely sure why. There are several theories behind this town’s check-blushing name.

Theory 1
The first theory is that the intersection of Routes 340 and 772 gave the town its name as it was the “in*******se” of the two major roadways.

Theory 2
Another idea is there was a racecourse on one end of the town. Visitors entered the course from the eastern end, so the entrance was dubbed “Entercourse,” which evolved into “In*******se.”

Theory 3
A third theory is based on the knowledge that in*******se has not always been a suggestive term. For example, the Merriam-Webster dictionary offers three definitions for in*******se. Take a look at the last two. The second says, “exchange especially of thoughts or feelings,” while the third says, “connection or dealings between persons or groups.” The name In*******se would have described the camaraderie of the town.

Theory 4
The name change was a marketing gimmick. In the early 1800s, the community consisted of only five houses, including the Cross Keys tavern. A land speculator thought the area was ripe for development, so he laid out 48 acres into 151 lots and announced the town’s cheeky new name in 1814. Next, he held a lottery, distributing the parcels at $250 each.

However, despite his efforts and the new name of “In*******se,” it was many years before the town saw any real growth. By the middle of the 1800s, its location at a busy crossroads finally led to the building of other taverns and general stores. Click the link to read more. https://unchartedlancaster.com/peculiar-names-in*******se/

🌅❄️ Embracing the Winter Solstice at Safe Harbor! The sunrise from Little Indian Rock offers a breathtaking view of the ...
12/21/2024

🌅❄️ Embracing the Winter Solstice at Safe Harbor! The sunrise from Little Indian Rock offers a breathtaking view of the changing season. Notice how the ancient petroglyph of the "serpent," perfectly aligned with the sun's emergence—a fascinating connection to nature's rhythm.

A millennium ago, a group of Native Americans known today as the Shenks Ferry People would have gathered on Little Indian Rock to mark the start of a new season as they viewed the solstice sunrise. Experimental archaeology suggests it takes about 20 minutes to make a dime-sized impress in the hard schist using a round hammerstone and quartz chisel. A carving of this size likely took several days to complete. This is one of four alignments of serpent-shaped petroglyphs with seasonal sunrises or sunsets at Safe Harbor. This section of the river must have been an important location to have been chosen to mark such an important day – the birth of a new solar year, year after year. 📷: Zach Elfers
https://wp.me/pazrDx-9li

Last year, I enjoyed a private tour of the infamous Columbia Market House dungeon by Chris Vera, a name synonymous with ...
12/20/2024

Last year, I enjoyed a private tour of the infamous Columbia Market House dungeon by Chris Vera, a name synonymous with preserving the river town's rich history. Vera is also the manager of the historic structure, and his deep involvement with the legendary lockup has led to personal encounters with the unexplainable, lending credibility to the ghostly tales surrounding this place.

One chilling experience Vera shared involved a sinister manifestation in the dungeon. He and his brother witnessed a terrifying phenomenon — a black mass that seemed to defy the laws of nature, crawling up the wall and stretching across the ceiling. This dark, amorphous entity then began to advance down the hallway towards them, its intent unknown. The encounter was so intense that it sent Vera and his brother fleeing upstairs, seeking refuge from the unnerving presence. Click the link to read more, including the ghost of Big John, an eternal specter who allegedly met a tragic end in one of the damp, unground cells. https://unchartedlancaster.com/secrets-in-the-cellar-the-ghosts-and-legends-of-columbia-market-house-dungeon/

Cowboy. The mere mention of the word brings a Man with No Name character to mind—the dust-covered gunslinger of the old ...
12/20/2024

Cowboy. The mere mention of the word brings a Man with No Name character to mind—the dust-covered gunslinger of the old west who, after strutting into a saloon, orders a whiskey and growls, “Leave the bottle.” Nothing could be more American than the cowboy.

If that’s what you thought when you read the word cowboy, prepare to have your mind blown. Mine was. Because cowboys fought in the American Revolution…and on the side of the British? Click the link to learn more. https://unchartedlancaster.com/would-you-believe-cowboys-fought-in-the-american-revolution-and-on-the-side-of-the-british/

Columbia, Pennsylvania, a gem nestled along the Susquehanna River, boasts a rich tapestry of history that dates back to ...
12/20/2024

Columbia, Pennsylvania, a gem nestled along the Susquehanna River, boasts a rich tapestry of history that dates back to the early 18th century. From its early days as a bustling ferry point to its near-miss as the nation's capital, Columbia's past is as fascinating as it is diverse. Let's take a journey through time, highlighting some of the key dates that have shaped this charming town when you click the link. https://wp.me/pazrDx-abG

1728 - The Beginning of a New Settlement
Columbia's story begins in 1728 with the settlement of Wright's Ferry. This marked the birth of a community that would grow and evolve over the centuries.

1730 - The Ferry Service Commences
Just two years later, in 1730, the ferry service began, laying the foundation for Columbia's role as a crucial transportation hub in the region.

1735 - The First Grist Mill
Signifying the town's early industrial ambitions, the first grist mill was erected in

1735, an essential facility for the local agriculture-based economy.

1788 - Columbia Gets Its Name
In 1788, Samuel Wright named the town "Columbia" in the hope of making it the location for the new capital federal city.

1789-1792 - Almost the Nation's Capital
In a remarkable twist of history, between 1789 and 1792, Columbia narrowly missed becoming the United States' capital by just one vote.

1797 - The First Postmaster
Joseph Smith became Columbia's first postmaster in 1797, marking an important step in establishing the town's communication networks.

Plus, several additions to the Uncharted Lancaster store with maps of Columbia from 1864, 1875, and 1894. Whether you're searching for a unique gift for the local history lover in your life or want to celebrate your Columbia, PA, pride, our meticulously crafted reproductions are the ideal choice.

These museum-quality posters printed on thick matte paper will add a touch of elegance to any room. Click the link for more important events from Columbia's past and get your map of Columbia. https://wp.me/pazrDx-abG

Lancaster's Bathtub Revolution: How America’s First Tub Made a SplashDid you know Lancaster, PA, was home to America’s f...
12/19/2024

Lancaster's Bathtub Revolution: How America’s First Tub Made a Splash

Did you know Lancaster, PA, was home to America’s first bathtub? In 1839, Jacob Demuth installed this trailblazing tub at 116 East King Street, marking the start of a hygiene revolution. Crafted from heavy wood and reinforced with iron bands, the tub resembled a modern bathtub in shape but was filled the old-fashioned way—with water heated in a tea kettle and poured by hand.

At the time, bathing was a luxury, and the city charged a $3 annual fee for each tub’s water supply—about $102 in today’s money. By year’s end, Lancaster boasted a grand total of nine bathtubs. Scandalous, right?

While Lancaster’s records don’t mention anti-bathing laws, other cities weren’t as open-minded. Philadelphia banned more than one bath a week, and Boston fined offenders for "excessive" cleanliness. Imagine being hauled into court for simply taking a bath!

Though the Demuth tub was retired in 1890, its impact on hygiene practices lives on. It may not have survived to the present day, but Lancaster’s role in this small yet vital revolution is undeniable.

Curious to learn more about the quirks, controversies, and mysteries of the Demuth bathtub? Click the link to uncover the full story! https://unchartedlancaster.com/americas-first-bathtub-was-born-in-lancaster/

On December 19, 1777, a significant yet somber chapter unfolded in the town of Lititz. The first wagon carrying sick and...
12/19/2024

On December 19, 1777, a significant yet somber chapter unfolded in the town of Lititz. The first wagon carrying sick and wounded soldiers of the Revolutionary War arrived here, following orders from General George Washington. For the next eight months, Lititz transformed into a sanctuary of healing, as the town tirelessly served as a hospital. Brave men who fought for the nation's independence were cared for with dedication and compassion.

Tragically, amidst this noble effort, typhus swept through the facility, claiming the lives of 120 soldiers out of nearly 1,000 who were treated there. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the challenges faced during our fight for freedom. To learn more about this historic period and the heroic efforts of Lititz in caring for these soldiers, click the link. https://unchartedlancaster.com/lititz-answers-the-call-of-freedom-by-becoming-a-hospital-town-for-revolutionary-war-wounded/

📷: 2019 Departed Spirits Tour.

Join Adam Zurn for an evening of history and tales of adventure in Shenks Ferry on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 6:30 PM ...
12/19/2024

Join Adam Zurn for an evening of history and tales of adventure in Shenks Ferry on Friday, January 10, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Millersville Community Church. Through captivating stories and firsthand accounts, Adam will take you on a virtual journey to uncover the mysteries of this history-rich area. Hear his search for a long-forgotten settler cemetery hidden in the woods, retrace his steps to reveal the tragic explosion of a dynamite factory that claimed 11 lives, and follow his odyssey to view the Safe Harbor petroglyphs created by the Native Americans who once called Shenks Ferry home. Don't miss this chance to experience history come alive through Adam's eyes and adventures!

This event is open exclusively to women in the community. Sorry, fellas. However, I'll be speaking on this topic again on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at the Millersville Area Historical Society, located in the borough administration building.

Click here for more details about this January 10th event. https://unchartedlancaster.com/january-10-history-and-adventure-in-shenks-ferry-presentation/

On December 19, 1989, just 82 years after its dedication, the Enola Low Grade saw its last train. The following year, Co...
12/19/2024

On December 19, 1989, just 82 years after its dedication, the Enola Low Grade saw its last train. The following year, Conrail petitioned the Interstate Commerce Commission to abandon the line. In 1990, the tracks were removed. Today, it's a popular rail trail. The ambitious three-year engineering project killed 200 men and cost nearly half a billion in today's dollars. Learn more when you click the link: https://wp.me/pazrDx-5D

The Belsnickel is a unique figure in Christmas folklore, often considered one of Saint Nicholas's companions, though qui...
12/19/2024

The Belsnickel is a unique figure in Christmas folklore, often considered one of Saint Nicholas's companions, though quite different from the infamous Krampus. Introduced to Pennsylvania by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the early 1800s, the Belsnickel's story has arguably flourished here more than it ever did in its German roots.

The name "Belsnickel" has many variations in spelling, but its essence lies in its meaning: "Bels" refers to fur, and "nickel" connects to Saint Nicholas. True to his name, the Belsnickel is typically depicted wearing animal fur, ragged and dirty clothing, and sometimes even sporting deer antlers atop his head.

Unlike other companions of Saint Nicholas, such as Knecht Ruprecht from the Palatinate region, the Belsnickel operates independently. He does not accompany Saint Nicholas but instead visits children one or two weeks before Christmas as a forewarning presence. His arrival is meant to reinforce good behavior ahead of the holiday.

A rather intimidating figure, the Belsnickel rewards well-behaved children with socks or shoes filled with candy. However, for those who misbehave, he delivers coal instead—often as a stark reminder to shape up before Christmas arrives.

The Belsnickel's American iteration differs from its European origins. In Germany, Saint Nicholas traditionally arrives on December 6th, Saint Nicholas Day. However, the American tradition of associating Saint Nicholas with Christmas Day, December 25th, has shifted the timeline of the Belsnickel's appearance. This adjustment makes the Belsnickel a uniquely American adaptation, deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.

Tap the link to dive into this captivating piece of holiday history! https://unchartedlancaster.com/the-belsnickel-a-mischievous-spirit-of-christmas-past/

📷: lancasterodditorium (on Instagram).

If you have ever eaten at John Wright Restaurant in Wrightsville, you may have noticed the nearby medieval-looking fortr...
12/18/2024

If you have ever eaten at John Wright Restaurant in Wrightsville, you may have noticed the nearby medieval-looking fortresses facing the Susquehanna River. This stone structure isn't a stronghold designed to protect Wrightsville from Columbia invaders but a tool essential for building a civilization.

Across the river in Lancaster County, 500 of these silent stone sentinels once dotted the hills. Today, fewer than 20 percent remain. Unlock the mystery of these ancient masonry guardians when you click the link. https://unchartedlancaster.com/meet-york-countys-silent-stone-sentinels-the-wrightsville-lime-kilns/

Quarryville became a Borough in 1892, but its origin goes back to 1775 when Martin Barr acquired several thousand acres ...
12/18/2024

Quarryville became a Borough in 1892, but its origin goes back to 1775 when Martin Barr acquired several thousand acres encompassing an area that included what is now Quarryville Borough. The town was officially named Quarryville in 1837, and the first post office opened in 1849. Before 1837 the area was known as Barr's Quarries.

Martin's son, Abram Barr, is reported to be the first to take limestone from the area in 1820, and the settlement was due mainly to the development of limestone quarries. In 1858, the area's 12 quarries, employing over 100 men, produced 600,000 bushels of lime. With this kind of industry, others soon followed. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, churches, hotels, and other businesses began to appear.

Geographically, the borough is the hub of southern Lancaster County. It covers approximately 1.3 square miles and boasts a population of around 2,700 residents.

Here's your chance to own a copy of the 1899 map of Quarryville Borough created from a 600 dpi scan of plate 75 from the 1899 Atlas of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Size: 18" x 24". Click the link to learn more. https://unchartedlancaster.com/product/1899-map-of-quarryville-borough-lancaster-county-pa/

“One does not simply walk into Mordor. Its Black Gates are guarded by more than just Orcs. There is evil there that does...
12/18/2024

“One does not simply walk into Mordor. Its Black Gates are guarded by more than just Orcs. There is evil there that does not sleep, and the Great Eye is ever watchful. It is a barren wasteland, riddled with fire and ash and dust, the very air you breathe is a poisonous fume. Not with ten thousand men could you do this. It is folly.” – Boromir.

Twenty years ago, Frodo and Sam did the impossible when they snuck into Mordor to destroy the One Ring in the 2003 Oscar-winning Best Picture 'The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King.'

You might not be able to simply walk into Mordor, but you can instead walk around at Muddy Run. Click the link to order The Lord of the Rings 4"x4" Slate Coaster set featuring the One Ring's inscription. https://unchartedlancaster.com/2023/11/29/the-lord-of-the-rings-4x4-slate-coasters-variety-four-pack/

As 2024 comes to a close, I'm counting down the top ten most popular blog posts that have resonated with readers and spa...
12/18/2024

As 2024 comes to a close, I'm counting down the top ten most popular blog posts that have resonated with readers and sparked conversations. See the complete list at https://unchartedlancaster.com/best-of-uncharted-lancaster-top-10-most-popular-posts-of-2024/

Number 8: Unraveling the Myth: Were the Susquehannocks True Giants?

In the annals of Captain John Smith’s encounters with the Susquehannock Indians during his 1608 voyage up the Chesapeake Bay, a fascinating narrative emerges—one that paints these indigenous people as giants. According to Smith, the warriors were described with awe-inspiring measurements, with one calf purportedly measuring a staggering 27 inches in circumference. The lingering question remains: Were the Susquehannocks indeed true giants?

Marshall Becker’s meticulous 1991 research delves into this historical puzzle. While his findings confirm that the 16th-century Susquehannocks were taller than many Native Americans of their time, the reality doesn’t quite match Smith’s vivid descriptions. Becker’s forensic analysis of 13 complete Susquehannock skeletons, along with long bones from 18 others, revealed that the males averaged around 5 feet, 7 inches, while the women stood at 5 feet, 3 inches tall. While not exceptionally tall by modern standards—especially compared to the average height of a male in the United States today—the Susquehannocks’ height was noteworthy for their era, nearly four inches taller than the average Englishman in the 1600s.

Becker suggests that the Susquehannocks’ stature could be attributed to their high-protein, maize-based diet. The notion of them as giants might have been further exaggerated when malnourished Europeans stood alongside the well-fed Susquehannocks. While Smith’s accounts may have portrayed these indigenous people as towering figures, the Susquehannocks’ true giants might have only existed in the imaginative heights of John Smith’s perception. Click the link to read more. https://unchartedlancaster.com/were-the-susquehannocks-indians-really-giants/

The Susquehanna River, one of the world's oldest waterways, has shaped not only Pennsylvania's history but also its folk...
12/18/2024

The Susquehanna River, one of the world's oldest waterways, has shaped not only Pennsylvania's history but also its folklore for hundreds of years. Among its many legends is the mystery of the Kettle Creek Monster, a creature rumored to dwell in the West Branch of the river near Westport, PA. Known by some as the "West Branch Dugong" or "Susquehanna Seal," its story has captivated imaginations for over a century.

The first recorded sighting dates back to February 27, 1897, when a man using the pseudonym "John of York" detailed the appearance of a large, shadowy figure swimming near the mouth of Kettle Creek in The Daily Democrat. Explore the rich history, eyewitness accounts, and the enduring fascination surrounding this elusive creature. Click the link to learn more! https://unchartedlancaster.com/cryptid-legend-of-the-kettle-creek-monster/

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Videos

Helicopter at Safe Harbor
Helicopter at Safe Harbor

During this morning’s Tunnels of Enola hike (11/2), we had an up-close encounter with this helicopter as it hovered just above the power lines for an extended period. Does anyone know why it might have been there?

Legend of Augusta Bitner's Wandering Statue
Legend of Augusta Bitner's Wandering Statue

Augusta Harriet Bitner was born on August 24, 1884, to Charles W. Bitner, a prominent leaf tobacco dealer, and his wife, Amelia. Augusta's great-grandfather Abram Bitner founded the Lancaster Watch Company and owned all the land that later became the Hamilton Watch Company. However, what made Augusta famous was not her birth but her untimely passing. Legend holds she died on her wedding day when she tumbled down the steps after tripping on her gown. Over the decades, eyewitnesses claim that Bitner's statue descends from her gravesite pedestal and roams Lancaster Cemetery at night. Is there any truth to this haunted tale? Read more at https://unchartedlancaster.com/haunted-lancaster-the-sad-tale-of-augusta-bitner-and-her-wandering-statue-in-lancaster-cemetery/

I made this video for the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County. Discover the surprising connection between a 2.5-story Georgian townhouse in downtown Lancaster, PA, and the famous Lewis & Clark expedition.

Lancaster's George Ross
Lancaster's George Ross

On August 2, 1776, Lancaster's George Ross signed the Declaration of Independence. Fun Fact: He is the Red Rose City's sole signer of the historic document. Read more at https://unchartedlancaster.com/george-ross-lancasters-sole-signer-of-the-declaration-of-independence/

George Washington visited Lancaster, PA five times during his life. His first was on June 4, 1773. In his diary, Washington wrote: 4. Breakfasted at the Sign of the Bull 13 Miles from the Ship. Dind at Lancaster 19 Miles further & lodgd at Wrights Ferry 10 Miles from Lancaster. Records indicate that Washington visited the Demuth Tobacco Shop to make a purchase while in town on June 4 and likely met proprietor, Johannes Demuth.

Golden Osprey Treasure Hunt teaser
Golden Osprey Treasure Hunt teaser

Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? The annual Uncharted Lancaster treasure hunt returns in the Spring of 2024 with the JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey Treasure Hunt Adventure. With $3,000 up for grabs, weekly cash prizes, and four ways to win, this promises to be my most exciting adventure yet! On this thrilling five-week expedition, players will explore Lancaster and Lebanon Counties, racing to uncover the elusive Golden Osprey’s hiding place! 🥇 First place: The first team to complete the adventure claims the treasure chest overflowing with $1,500 in one-dollar coins. 🥈 Second place: The runner-up receives a fantastic $1,000 cash prize! 🥉 Third place: The adventure isn’t over for the bronze medalists, who pocket a cool $500! But wait, there’s more! An honorable mention goes to the fourth-place team with the highest score on the leaderboard (and not among the first three Golden Osprey finders), as they’ll walk away with $250! All four teams receive a full-size commemorative Golden Osprey souvenir to remember this epic quest. Are you ready to accept the challenge, gather your crew, and make history? Join the adventure of a lifetime and secure your chance at fortune and glory when you pre-order your JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey Treasure Hunt Adventure! Click the link to begin your adventure. https://unchartedlancaster.com/treasurehunt/ Thank you to Jonestown Bank & Trust Co. for being a sponsor.

🎉 A BIG thank you to Jonestown Bank & Trust Co. for their incredible support of the 2024 Uncharted Lancaster Treasure Hunt. They've generously provided the prize money in the form of one-dollar coins for the upcoming adventure. Just look at those stunning gold-colored beauties! Turned out moving them to my vehicle was a two-person job—a hefty 71 pounds of gold-colored treasure! For all you adventure seekers, here's something to get you even more excited. You can pre-order your JBT and Raiders of the Golden Osprey Adventure Treasure Diary now at https://wp.me/PazrDx-9un This diary isn't just a book; it's your companion for the hunt, filled with clues and secrets to guide you on this thrilling journey. Stay tuned. Full details for the treasure hunt will be released in March 2024. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this extraordinary adventure. Let the countdown begin for your chance at fortune and glory! Visit JBT for all your banking needs. For information on becoming a sponsor, visit https://wp.me/PazrDx-9vG

Shenks Ferry White Angel
Shenks Ferry White Angel

Local lore hangs heavy at Shenks Ferry. Stories vary, but most center around the ghost of a young woman wearing white. Click the link to read more. https://wp.me/pazrDx-Fc

The Fiery Specter of Grace Hubley
The Fiery Specter of Grace Hubley

On November 17, 1861, wealthy Lancaster heiress Grace Hubley's dress mysteriously and spontaneously caught fire, tragically ending my life. More than 160 years later, people occasionally hear a woman scream as if on fire from the corner of Duke and Marion, where her mansion once sat. Forty years prior, she caused the sudden breakup between future President James Buchanan and Ann Coleman, the daughter of a wealthy Pennsylvanian ironmaster, with an ill-timed, untrue letter to Ann. Some believe this action forever cursed her, first to a loveless life. She was engaged three times but never married, ultimately dying a spinster. Second to a horrible, painful death. Click the link to read her full story. https://wp.me/pazrDx-5bT

🦍 Possible albatwitch sighting in the River Hills outside of Pequea
🦍 Possible albatwitch sighting in the River Hills outside of Pequea

🦍 Possible albatwitch sighting in the River Hills outside of Pequea. Looking to surprise your passengers while on a Sunday drive? If so, set your GPS for the intersection of River Hill and Colemanville Church Roads. There, you will spot the beast about 20 feet into the forest on the eastern side of the road. Click the link to read more about the legendary cryptid. https://wp.me/pazrDx-JI

Join me for the annual Strasburg Halloween Parade on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at 7 p.m. 👻 I’ll be marching in the parade with my Ark of the Covenant replica and sharing some fantastic treats! Look out for candy, plastic gold coins, witch fingers, rubber snakes (Snakes! Why did it have to be snakes!?!), and wooden nickels (that reveal the theme for my upcoming annual spring treasure hunt and how to pre-order your grail diary for a chance to win a whopping $3,000 in prizes, including weekly cash prizes in this an incredible adventure). The parade kicks off at Strasburg Jaycee Park, 218 Miller Street, at 7 p.m. Then east on Miller Street, through the Historic Strasburg PA Square, and wraps up at the intersection of East Main St and Shenk Ave. I hope to see you there! Additional details when you click the link. https://unchartedlancaster.com/2023/10/19/october-26-strasburg-halloween-parade/

The Haunted Portrait of General Sutter at the Lititz Springs Inn
The Haunted Portrait of General Sutter at the Lititz Springs Inn

According to urban legend, the Lititz Springs Inn is plagued by eerie and inexplicable paranormal activities whenever the portrait of General Sutter is moved from its place above the sitting area fireplace. People have reported seeing shadows where there shouldn't be any. Others have heard footsteps in vacant halls and on empty staircases. Sometimes, utensils even appear to fly across the kitchen. Most longtime employees will not even touch the painting. Click the link to read more. https://wp.me/pazrDx-3yg If you want more Lititz ghost stories, book a Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz. Founded in 1756, the historic town of Lititz, Pennsylvania, is the location of several ghost stories and paranormal happenings. You will journey down Main Street with your knowledgeable guide as you discover these tales and see many structures associated with them along the way. Just some of the stops along the tour include a haunted tavern from the 1700s, the location of a mysterious grave in the basement of a store, a former Revolutionary War hospital that is said to be haunted by at least one spirit, and an authentic corpse house built in 1786. This is a family-friendly tour suitable for all ages. They are six days a week and end November 4, 2034. https://www.viator.com/tours/Lancaster/Ghost-Tour-of-Lititz/d24305-170924P4

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About Uncharted Lancaster

Hi, my name is Adam. Growing up in the 80s I enjoyed watching movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Goonies. Later it was National Treasure and Ready Player One as well as the epic video game series Uncharted. When I wasn't watching one of these movies, I was cosplaying it. An old bicycle wrench was my Copper Bones. A surplus WWII gas mask bag became my Indiana Jones side bag.

I've always wanted to experience an adventure similar to one of my heroes, and that got me thinking. Why not? Why couldn't I have an adventure like one of my favorite characters, learn some local history, and maybe even find an artifact or some treasure along the way?

Maybe I couldn't, but I could definitely create them for other people. From this, the idea for Uncharted Lancaster was born. The elevator pitch sounds like this: National Treasure meets letterboxing meets Lancaster County history.

Armed with a basement full of maker space equipment, volumes of Lancaster County history, classic movie prop replicas, and a bunch of smart friends, I began constructing various adventures for Uncharted Lancaster.