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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

Wood On Glass

Pine Creek – Early 1900s

Men and horses are rolling beached logs from the shore back into the water. An ark raft is visible, and the mountainside is nearly bare of trees from extensive clearcutting. Rivers played a key role in transporting goods like logs and lumber for Pennsylvania industries. Read more

Wood On Glass

Ark Rafts in the Lumber Heritage Region, Pennsylvania circa 1905

Ark rafts were flat-bottomed boats used to haul cargo - in this case, lumber. A young girl in an apron positioned by two men also in aprons and holding cookware appear to be the cooks for this crew. In the ark raft furthest back, a horse is also visible and would have made the jo... Read more

Wood On Glass

Pine Creek Log Drive in Lycoming County, Pennsylvania circa 1905

Teams of horses and men pull logs in the foreground. Ark rafts are visible in the background of the image. Raftsmen faced many dangers on their perilous journeys down river (and on their return trip typically on foot). Read more