Join me at the Milanof-Schock Public Library in Mount Joy atย 1184 Anderson Ferry Road for my Monday, March 2, 2026, at 6 pm,ย History and Tales of Adventure in Shenks Ferry presentation.
Click here to register for this free event.

Prepare to embark on a journey of discovery as I share some of my adventures in Shenks Ferry, including:
- A Forgotten Settler Cemetery: Buried in the woods, this cemetery has tombstones dating back to the 1700s.
- Ferry Crossing: Learn how in the early 1800s, Henry Shenks operated a ferry and hotel here, giving the location its name.
- Coal Dredging on the Susquehanna River: Learn about the fascinating history of this industrial process that shaped the Shenks Ferry area.
- The Dynamite Factory Tragedy: Hear the story of an explosion that took 11 lives and left an indelible mark on the region. It is still the worst accident in Lancaster County history!
- The Safe Harbor Petroglyphs: Iโll highlight some of these ancient carvings created by Native Americans who once thrived in Shenks Ferry.


Through captivating stories, firsthand accounts, and a few surprises, I hope to transport you to a time when Shenks Ferry was alive with activity, both ancient and modern.


This in-person program is free and open, butregistration is required. It is perfect for adults and older children who love to explore or enjoy local history. Please registerย every personย in your group through theย library’s website or callย 717.786.1336.
I will have free Uncharted Lancaster stickers and magnets for those in attendance.
I hope to see you on March 2 for what promises to be an exciting morning of stories, history, and adventure.
Click here to register for this free event.
Where to go
The Milanof-Schock Library is located at 1184 Anderson Ferry Rd, Mount Joy, PA 17552.
Click here to register for this free event.
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1864 Map of Mount Joy Township, Lancaster County, PAPrice range: $22.99 through $24.99
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The Shenks Ferry area sounds like such a compelling place for a presentation like this. The story of tracking down a forgotten settler cemetery in the woods, combined with the tragedy of the dynamite factoy explosion and the Native American petroglyphs, gives this such a rich layered narrative. Adam Zurn has a real talent for making local history feel alive and personal rather than just a list of dates. This sounds like a fantastic evening for anyone who loves exploring the stories hidden in plain sight around us.
Hi, Will the presentation be recorded and available for later viewing? Thanks!
I don’t think so.