The history of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, is visually presented through the words of a venerable historian and striking images compiled from old photographs, advertising pieces, and postcards that relate the cultural diversity apparent today in this favorite tourist destination. From all over the world, visitors marvel at the beautiful farms on limestone-based soil that is among the most productive land anywhere. Early settlers found it a Garden of Eden, and to this day the land attracts people concerned with diverse community life and productive industries that support the growing population. Learn about the area's history and traditions, and see everyday life conducted by everyday people of a thriving locale. Religious independence still thrives in the communities of Amish, Mennonite, Quaker, Catholic, Protestant, and Jewish settlers from Swiss, Scottish, Irish, French Huguenot, German, and Hispanic origins, and the rural setting complements progressive towns where the future is part of the past. AUTHOR: Irwin Richman is Professor Emeritus at the Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg and currently the Director of Research and Development for the Heritage Seed Project at the Landis Valley Museum near Lancaster City. His special interest areas are Pennsylvania German culture, American art, and horticulture. He has lived in Lancaster County for over 35 years.
