As America marks its 250th birthday, York County is embracing this milestone by shining aspotlight on the places and stories that helped shape our nation—stories that unfoldedright here in York County, Pennsylvania.
While York County Parks is often associated with trails, wildlife, and outdoor recreation,this anniversary year highlights another side of our mission: preserving and sharing thecounty’s rich historical heritage.
To bring that history even closer, York County Parks partnered with eight organizations tocreate the York County History Passport. Inspired by the success of Go York library hikesand the National Park Services Junior Ranger programs, the History Passport offers familiesa fun and interactive way to explore the people, places, and events that shaped YorkCounty.
Passport books will be available at all featured sites, York County Parks Headquarters atJohn Rudy Park, and the Nixon Park Nature Center. Families can visit each location, answera set of discovery questions, collect stamps, and enjoy a summer filled with exploration. Atthe end of the season, families that complete at least 3 of the locations can enter a drawingfor prizes.
We are excited to highlight our rich York County history by including three of our YorkCounty Parks museums. Hanover Junction Train Station, a key Civil War landmark, offers avivid look at troop movements, wartime communication, and President Lincoln’s journey todeliver the Gettysburg Address. New Freedom Train Station, once a bustling stop on theNorthern Central Railway, highlights the movement of goods and the growth of regionaltrade. and Wallace‑Cross Mill, a beautifully preserved 19th‑century grist mill, showcases thepower of early technology and the essential role water‑driven mills played in supportinglocal agriculture.
How the Program Works:
- Pick Up a Passport: Families can register and collect their free Passport books at all featured sites, York County Parks Headquarters at John Rudy Park, and the Nixon Park Nature Center.
- Explore and Learn: Students visit participating history museums and historic sites throughout York County. At each stop, participants will receive a stamp and record a brief reflection on what they learned during their visit.
- Turn In and Win: Completed passports must be returned to the York County Parks Department by August 31.
The History Passport Program is completely free and offers families an affordable and engaging way to explore York County's revolutionary history, cultural heritage, transportation history, and historic landmarks throughout the summer months.
York County History Passport- Our Partners at a Glance
Indian Steps Museum
One of the oldest Native American museums in the nation, Indian Steps offers a rarelook at Indigenous life along the Susquehanna River. Its stone architecture andriverfront setting immerse visitors in the region’s earliest stories.
Zimmerman Center for Heritage
As the National Park Service’s visitor contact station for the Susquehanna NationalHeritage Area, the Zimmerman Center highlights the river’s influence on transportation,culture, and community life throughout the centuries.
Mifflin Farm
This preserved 18th‑century homestead reflects York County’s agricultural beginnings.Its historic buildings and landscapes show how early families lived, worked, and builtthe foundations of rural life.
Susquehanna Riverlands State Park
Interpretive areas throughout the park explore the logging andlumbering traditions that once powered local industry. Visitorscan learn how timber shaped both the economy and thenatural environment
Ma & Pa Railroad
This historic short‑line railroad connected rural communitiesand carried everything from milk to mail. Today, it preservesthe charm and character of early 20 century railroading.
Hanover History MuseumFocused on the people and industries of Hanover, thismuseum explores how local manufacturing, innovation, andcommunity life contributed to broader American growth.
York County History Center
As the county’s flagship historical institution, the History Center offers exhibitsspanning centuries—from Revolutionary War stories to industrial innovation—providing essential context for York County’s role in the nation’s story.
Crispus Attucks Community Center
Named for the first casualty of the American Revolution, the center honors AfricanAmerican heritage and leadership in York. Its history reflects resilience, activism, andcommunity pride.
For more information about this program click here
