Discover the History of Providence Hill Farm
Explore the Living Legacy of Providence Hill Farm
Providence Hill Farm, located in Perryopolis, Pennsylvania, stands today as a preserved working farm, embodying the rich heritage of Quaker craftsmanship and agricultural excellence that dates back to the 18th century. Established in 1782 by pioneering Quakers who carved their way through the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, the farm remains a thriving testament to the agricultural and industrial advancements that shaped the region. Rooted deeply in the soil, this historic farm originated as a thriving grain and livestock operation under the stewardship of skilled Quaker pioneers.
The Founding of Providence Hill Farm
The farm was originally established in 1782 by James Purviance, a devout Quaker who sought to create a self-sustaining community for fellow believers. Raised in the Quaker tradition, Purviance settled in Fayette County and acquired 274 acres of fertile land in 1786. Before the construction of a formal meeting house, Quaker worship services were held at his home. In 1789, Purviance sold a portion of his land to construct what would become the Providence Meeting House, also known as the Perryopolis Quaker Church, forming the spiritual and communal heart of the settlement.
Providence Meeting House and Cemetery
The original log meeting house was replaced in 1793 by a stone structure that served the Quaker community until 1871. Following its closure, the surrounding land was sold back to Samuel S. Strickler, a later owner of the farm. By 1895, the meeting house had fallen into disrepair, but in 2016, members of the local community, along with the Pittsburgh Area Artist and Blacksmith Association (PAABA), spearheaded a complete restoration of the building and its iron fence, bringing the site back to its original 19th-century appearance. Unlike previous reports, there is no chain-link fencing—only a fully restored iron fence crafted by skilled blacksmiths, reflecting the craftsmanship of the 1800s.
The Providence Quaker Cemetery, adjacent to the meeting house, contains approximately 500 burials, most of which remain unmarked in keeping with early Quaker traditions. About 50 tombstones are currently standing, dating from 1790 to 1870. Today, the cemetery and meeting house remain a solemn yet inspiring reminder of the Quaker influence in Perryopolis.
The Quaker Tradition of Excellence in Agriculture and Craftsmanship
The Quakers were known for their exceptional skills in farming and craftsmanship, and their contributions were instrumental in Perryopolis’s early industries. They believed in hard work, high-quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to community welfare, which led them to excel in a wide range of trades and industries.
In the Perryopolis area, Quaker craftspeople specialized in blacksmithing, barrel making, woodworking, and ironworking, providing essential tools and equipment for local farmers and businesses. Their expertise contributed significantly to wagon shops, mills, and other industrial ventures that helped shape the local economy.
George Washington's Grist Mill and the Strickler Connection
Providence Hill Farm’s importance to the region was further solidified when George Washington envisioned Perryopolis as an agricultural and industrial hub. In 1774, Washington ordered the construction of a grist mill along the Youghiogheny River, intending for it to be the primary milling operation for wheat grown and threshed at Providence Hill Farm. Though construction was delayed due to regional conflicts, the mill was completed in 1776, providing a crucial resource for local farmers. The mill changed ownership over time, and in the 19th century, it was acquired by John Strickler, the brother of Samuel S. Strickler—both prominent landowners in the region. Under John’s ownership, the Washington Grist Mill continued to be a center of commerce, allowing farmers to bring their threshed grain for milling.
Innovation at Providence Hill Farm
The Strickler family contributed significantly to advancing agricultural practices in the area. In 1865, Samuel S. Strickler built a large barn on Providence Hill Farm, housing a steam-powered threshing machine—a revolutionary technology at the time. This allowed local farmers to bring their wheat to the farm, where it was threshed, bagged, and loaded onto wagons for transport to Washington's mill. This process streamlined grain production, reinforcing the farm’s vital role in the local economy.
Providence Hill Farm Today
Unlike many historic sites that have become static museums, Providence Hill Farm remains a fully operational farm, maintaining cattle, forage harvesting, and traditional farm crafts. In addition to farming, Providence Hill Farm LLC keeps the pioneer craftsmanship of the Quakers alive by offering handmade metal signs, tin and blacksmith items, primitives, dolls, candles, jellies, and butters. These products reflect the artisanal traditions that were essential to the early Quaker settlers of the region.
Visitors can tour the working farm, see the historic 1863 farmhouse and 1865 barn, and learn about the integrated farming and milling operations that defined the region’s economy for centuries. The restored Providence Meeting House and Cemetery serve as a focal point for those interested in the Quaker heritage of Perryopolis.
A Legacy of Perseverance
With over two centuries of history, Providence Hill Farm, the Providence Meeting House, and Washington's Grist Mill stand as lasting monuments to agricultural ingenuity, faith, and community resilience. Whether through farming, blacksmithing, or historical preservation, the legacy of those who shaped Providence Hill Farm continues to thrive, ensuring that its story remains alive for future generations.
Continuing the Legacy
The Society of Friends (Quakers) historically valued handcrafted items that were durable and practical, expressing a dedication to simplicity and utility. Proficient in metalworking, they created various items such as household utensils, tools, and even architectural elements like hinges and locks. This tradition emphasized skillful workmanship and often favored using locally available materials. Over time, Quaker metalwork evolved, but its core principles of simplicity and quality craftsmanship remained.
Today, Providence Hill Farm proudly continues this legacy, preserving the traditions that have shaped the farm for over two centuries.
At Providence Hill Farm, LLC, visitors are invited to explore a world where craftsmanship meets history. The farm’s offerings include handmade metal signs, meticulously crafted handcrafts, tinsmith and blacksmith items, primitives, dolls, candles, jellies, butters, and more.
While browsing the farm’s products and services, visitors can experience the charm of the 1863 farmhouse and 1865 barn, both open for tours that not only showcase the farm’s dedication to preserving history but also highlight the intrinsic value of farming in Perryopolis.
Nestled on the former Providence Quaker Settlement, the home of Providence Meeting House since 1789, the farm borders property once owned by none other than George Washington himself.
To engage in a conversation about the farm's history and offerings or to schedule a tour, visitors are encouraged to reach out through the farm’s contact form.
Providence Hill Farm is not just a destination; it is a journey through time and craftsmanship, and its story continues to be written every day.