At Monheit Law, our we have a few history buffs among our staff of Montgomery County personal injury lawyers. This region is a fantastic place to explore historical sites from the earliest days of the United States and is home to several prominent landmarks from the American Revolution. While everyone is familiar with Valley Forge National Park, one of our favorite destinations is the lesser known Pennypacker Mills.

History Of Pennypacker Mills

Constructed around 1720, this house later became a headquarters for George Washington leading up to the Battle of Germantown in 1777. It was also used as a field hospital for injured soldiers following battles.

In the early 20th century, Pennsylvania governor Samuel Pennypacker made the site his summer home and spent a good deal of his term as governor there. He also moved there year-round after leaving office until his death in 1916.

In 1976, Pennypacker Mills was added to the National Register of Historic Places. These days, it’s open to the public for tours Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Admission to the park is free.

Special Events

Pennypacker Mills regularly hosts special events, which offer additional insight into life in the U.S. during the 19th and 18th centuries. The property regularly hosts Civil War reenactments and other related events, such as the annual two-day Civil War Reunion. During the reunion weekend, there are a variety of educational and entertaining events, such as:

  • Artillery demonstrations
  • Daily battle reenactments
  • Meet the Union Generals program
  • Demonstrations of daily life in the 1860s
  • Exhibits
  • Mansion tours
  • The Be A Soldier program for kids
  • Stories and songs from the Civil War

In September, the Mills host a craft marketplace. This event features unique works of art, crafts, and a variety of other handmade items. A great place to find a unique gift for a loved one. The event has free admission and free parking, and there are food vendors on site.

Restaurant Options

If you’re looking for a good place to have lunch or dinner during your visit to Pennypacker Mills, there are several great restaurants nearby:

Woodside Lodge at Spring Mountain

Woodside Lodge offers delicious diner-style food inside of a bed and breakfast, but you don’t have to stay here to enjoy the good food. Some of our favorite dishes here include:

  • Atlantic Salmon
  • Woodside Lump Crab Cakes
  • Crabb Stuffed Shrimp
  • Chicken Piccata over Squash and Potato Noodles
  • French Dip Au Jus
  • Brisket Sandwich served on Hearth Bakery Brioche

Copperfield Inn at Lakeside

Copperfield Inn at Lakeside offers a combination of traditional and modern American cuisine. You can find something here for all tastes and budgets. Some of our favorite appetizers and dinners at this restaurant include:

  • Kettle Chili
  • Steamed Clams and Mussels
  • Southwestern Chicken Spring Rolls
  • Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
  • Jumbo Shrimp and Jumbo Lump Crab Meat Cocktails
  • Char Grilled Eight Ounce Center Cut Filet Mignon
  • Chicken and Roasted Red Pepper Crepes
  • Signature Broiled Crab Cakes
  • Grilled Shrimp and Scallops
  • Crab Meat and Asparagus Pasta

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Firebirds is a steakhouse that also serves seafood and has an extensive wine selection. This is a great place to enjoy a classy meal at relatviely affordable prices. Some of our favorites at Firebirds include:

  • Lobster Spinach Queso
  • Jalapeno Deviled Eggs
  • Grilled Tenderloin Salad
  • Grilled Shrimp & Strawberry Salad
  • Slow-Roasted Prime Rib
  • Pecan Encrusted Trout
  • American Kobe Beef Meatloaf
  • Cilantro-Grilled Chicken Breast