For thousands of years, the land that would become Pennsylvania was dominated by dense, ancient forests that stretched as far as the eye could see. Towering trees such as white oaks, chestnuts and hemlocks formed a vast green canopy that covered hundreds of miles.

The forests were such an integral part of this landscape that it was named Pennsylvania by King Carles the Second. Penn – in honor of Sir William Penn – and Sylvania - from the Latin silva meaning woods. Penn’s Woods. 

But as the Commonwealth grew and the United State developed as a nation, those spectacular trees would become one of Pennsylvania’s greatest resources. 

And after decades of clear cutting millions of acres of forests, only a few hundred acres of old growth forests remained by the early 1900s. Pennsylvania's natural landscape was devastated. Wildfires spread across the land. Riverbanks were eroded and flooding occurred. Our land – effectively destroyed.

Something needed to be done. Scientists, conservationists and state officials created strategies to develop and protect forests for future generations. It took the planting of millions of trees, passing legislation and a combined effort of local, state and federal government to bring us to where we are today – a vibrant, thriving Pennsylvania ecosystem.

The story of Pennsylvania’s natural landscape is one of abundance, exploitation and then rebirth. And I have never seen that story told better than by the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum.

Located in Ulysses, this awesome museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of Pennsylvania's lumber industry. It's a place where history comes alive through hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and a deep dive into the lives of the people who worked in one of Pennsylvania’s most significant industries.

On this episode, I speak with Josh Roth. Josh is the site administrator for the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum.

Be sure to check out and support our sponsors for the 2024 season:

Keystone Trails Association
KTA is dedicated to providing, preserving, protecting and promoting recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities in Pennsylvania. Use code "HELLBENDERS" to receive $5 off a yearly membership.

Purple Lizard Maps
Purveyors of incredibly detailed, highly curated, and waterproof trail maps of Pennsylvania's state forests. Find them at your local outfitters, bike shops, and bookstores or visit PurpleLizard.com.

Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation began in 1999 as a statewide nonprofit organization to provide a voice for the Commonwealth’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of forest land. They rally volunteers, raise funds, and advocate for these precious lands. Join the movement at PAParksandForests.org to preserve and enjoy our outdoor treasures.

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Hosting, production and editing: Christian Alexandersen
Music: Jon Sauer
Graphics: Matt Davis