Our Roots

Our Roots

Journey through the stories that shaped Pennsylvania’s forests and the people who depended on them. Explore key themes like Pre-Colonization, when Indigenous knowledge stewarded the land; Penn’s Woods, a vision of vast, untamed wilderness; and Building America, where timber fueled the nation’s growth.

Learn how Rivers and Timbers connected communities and drove industry, and discover the ongoing efforts of Renewing Pennsylvania’s Forests through conservation and sustainable practices. These narratives honor the past while inspiring the future of our region’s natural and cultural legacy.

Millionaire's Row

The Boom and Bust of Pennsylvania’s Lumber Era

The 19th-century lumber boom transformed Pennsylvania’s forests into an industrial powerhouse—before overharvesting led to economic collapse and environmental devastation. This is the story of the rise, fall, and restoration of the Lumber Heritage Region. Read more

Our Roots

Renewing America’s Forests: Preserving Nature

The 19th-century lumber industry devastated Pennsylvania’s forests, but modern efforts in managed growth and ecological sensitivity are restoring and preserving these vital resources for future generations. Learn how historical and contemporary conservation initiatives are renewi... Read more

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