Laura Smith Trail of History

The Laura Smith Trail of History begins near the Victorian-era farmhouse that today serves as the preserve's office. An interpretive booklet offers glimpses into the history of this part of Pennsylvania and of the Bitler family who settled  here in the 1800s. The quarter-mile trail, named for the granddaughter of the original settlers, wanders over what was once their farmstead.

The beautiful Victorian-era farmhouse was built in 1877 by Joel and Eliza Bitler (Laura Smith's grandparents). This was home for four generations of Bitlers until 1970 when PPL bought the homestead from their granddaughter, Laura Smith, who had lived there nearly 50 years. PPL restored the farmhouse and utilizes it as Montour Preserve's office.

A stroll through the grounds recalls the bygone days through glimpses of an herb garden, the old farmstead and pieces of farm equipment.

For map of Laura Smith Trail, click here.

Back