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‘Extraordinary’ Legacy

By Staff | Sep 18, 2019

Languishing under the elements, the Muncy Farms historical marker laid in disarray for decades until last year. Muncy Boy Scout Ben Johnson, under the prompting of Bill Poulton, organized the monument restoration, which will be rededicated in a solemn ceremony at 12:15 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 on the property. Johnson was tasked with taking leadership of the project in order to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Johnson and his Troop No. 25 spent many hours creating the now-stable foundation the marker rests in, finishing the project July 20. The use of a crane to hoist the marker, along with company man-hours was donated by Steel Drilling Company in South Williamsport. Poulton is the Executive Director of the Muncy Historical Society.

MUNCY TOWNSHIP-Motorists traveling near the Lycoming Mall on Saturday, Sept. 21, should anticipate an increase in traffic, due to a unique event expected to bring thousands of curious people.

The 250th anniversary of Muncy Farms, Lycoming Mall Drive, will be observed from noon to 6 p.m. that day, rain or shine.

Parking is not permitted at the farm property itself; instead, those visiting the centuries-old homestead are required to follow signs for parking at the mall. Free shuttle rides will run to and from the acreage throughout the day.

Beginning at 12:15 p.m., a rededication of the Fort Muncy monument is scheduled. The monument was restored by 18-year-old Ben Johnson, who took the project to task in order to become an Eagle Scout. Johnson, a senior at Muncy Jr/Sr High School, is a member of Troop No. 25 and will be on hand at the ceremony.

At 12:30 p.m., members of the Muncy High School band will march across the iron bridge to the former Samuel Wallis homestead.

At 1 p.m., Bill Poulton, executive director of the Muncy Historical Society, will speak of the legacy and 250-year history of Muncy Farms, followed at 1:30 p.m. by Roger Swartz. Swartz provides a knowledgeable background of Samuel Wallis, believed to have been a Loyalist and master spy.

Joy McCracken provides an in-house textile production demonstration at 2:30 p.m., and Brett Walker discusses Wallis’ career as a surveyor, using tools from that time period. Audience participation is anticipated.

Malcolm Barlow, current co-owner of the farmstead, will speak of his life experiences as documented in the biography “Only One Child,” at 4:30 p.m.

Throughout the day, several demonstrations are available, including interior tours of the homestead; re-enactors depicting he life and culture of Eastern Woodlands Native Americans and encampment; the Civil War Thompson Battery “C” and 10-pounder Parrott Rifle; the “John Waldron” Packet Boat, circa 1860s, featuring Captain Mick; and master horner and scrims-hander John Dewald.

Railroad enthusiasts may delight in the Halls Station iron truss bridge, the third oldest bridge of its kind in the country.

Antique cars, including a locally owned 1916 model Willy-Silver-Knight, owned by Pearl White, a Hollywood film star during the 1910s. The car was also owned by Blanche Stuart Scott, the first woman to drive across the county. Scott was also the first woman to fly in America.

Picnic-fare foods will be available for purchase from the Muncy Band Association and Boy Scout Troop No. 25.