The area known today as Landis Valley was first settled by German immigrants in the mid 1700s. The area grew over the years and is known for playing an important role in the Civil War. In addition, several key inventions trace their roots to this area, including the Conestoga Wagon and the Pennsylvania Longrifle. Today, Landis Valley is a living history museum that spans over 100 acres. The museum is devoted to giving visitors a greater understanding and appreciation of this area's rich culture and history.
Visitors to the Landis Valley: A Civil War Village will be transported back in time. The village has been revitalized to its 18th and 19th century appearance, and boasts many actors dressed in period costume who take on the roles of villagers during the time period. You can walk across the 100 acre village and explore the various building. As you tour the village, you can learn more about the lives of villages from this era through live demonstrations in tavern cooking, black-smithing, gun-smithing, tin-smithing, and more. Actors dressed as soldiers of the time period can be seen performing military drills with bayonets in a military camp at certain times as well.
There are numerous buildings in Landis Valley that you can walk inside and explore. These buildings include an 1890s schoolhouse, a blacksmith workshop, two log buildings, two brick buildings, a hotel built in 1856, and more. In many of the buildings in Landis Valley, you can view actual artifacts from the village's history as well as its occupation by Union soldiers. Some of the many items you will find here include everyday household items, farm items, military items, and more. Before you leave, be sure to stop by the museum store and pick up a few souvenirs and mementos of your trip to the area.
The Landis Valley living museum is easy to access, and is located just south of the Lancaster Airport. Take some time to learn more about the Lancaster area's rich history and German heritage by spending time at Landis Valley. This interactive, living history museum will be a highlight of your getaway!
