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Historic Rock Ford and its collection

Historic Rock Ford
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Historic Rock Ford, also known as the General Edward Hand House, is a significant historic site located in southeastern Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The house is surrounded by the scenic Lancaster County Central Park, providing a picturesque setting for visitors. The property is privately owned and operated by the Rock Ford Foundation, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of this important site.

Architecture of Historic Rock Ford

The Historic Rock Ford mansion is a prime example of Georgian-style architecture. Built in 1794, the brick mansion's design has remained largely unchanged over the centuries. The mansion features four floors, each with a central hall and four corner rooms, a layout typical of the period. This architectural consistency provides a unique glimpse into the past for visitors.

Guided Tours at Historic Rock Ford

Visitors to Historic Rock Ford can participate in guided tours to learn about life on the property between 1794 and 1805. The house is arranged to reflect the inventory at the time of Edward Hand's death in 1802, providing an authentic representation of the period. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and understand the historical context of the property.

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ENRock Ford Plantation

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Historic house

Historic Rock Ford
881 Rockford Road
PA 17602 Lancaster
Pennsylvania

Visitor information Historic Rock Ford

Opening hours

Guided Tours of the Hand Mansion are offered at 10 AM, 12 PM and 2 PM (Tuesday-Friday and Sunday) and 10 AM and 12 PM (Saturday). Visit website for details.
Tour season: April - October
Special events throughout the year.

Admission

AdultsUS$18.00
ChildrenUS$15.00
SeniorsUS$16.00

Ticket prices vary. Check website for details. Open April through October.

Facilities

Museum shop
Parking

Location & Map

881 Rockford Road, Lancaster

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Exhibitions

No exhibitions in Historic Rock Ford have been found.

Historic Rock Ford Reviews

Historic Rock Ford has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    Historic Rock Ford, located in Lancaster, United States, offers visitors a glimpse into 18th-century American life. The museum is centered around the preserved home of Edward Hand, an adjutant general to George Washington during the Revolutionary War.

    The Georgian-style mansion, built in 1794, is well-maintained and features period-appropriate furnishings and decor. Visitors appreciate the authenticity of the house and its contents, which provide a good representation of upper-class colonial living. The guided tours are informative, offering insights into the daily life, customs, and historical context of the era.

    The grounds surrounding the mansion are pleasant, with walking trails and beautiful gardens that add to the overall experience. Some visitors note that the site is particularly lovely during spring and fall.

    While many find the tour guides knowledgeable and engaging, a few visitors mention that the experience can be somewhat brief, leaving them wanting more in-depth information. Additionally, as with many historic homes, accessibility may be limited for those with mobility issues due to the nature of the building's original design.

    Events and reenactments held at Historic Rock Ford, such as candlelight tours during the holiday season, receive positive feedback for enhancing the immersive historical experience.

    Overall, Historic Rock Ford is a well-preserved piece of American history that provides an educational and enjoyable experience for those interested in colonial-era architecture and lifestyles. While it may not be the largest or most extensive museum, it offers a focused and authentic look at a specific period in American history.

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    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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