Need a Perry/Snyder Co historian (Selinsgrove, Muncy: hotel, homes, schools)

[judd2401]

I'm fascinated by a fairly large 3 story square brick building that is just north of Excel Homes on the southbound side of Rts 11/15. It has not been visible until recently because it was covered with vegetation, it appears someone has been removing some of the overgrowth and it has become more visible. Just north of this building are 2 old stone foundations that held a bridge and you can make out an elevated road [or rail road bed?] that runs in front of this building, especially in the winter when there is snow on the ground. It looks like it could have been an old hotel, does anybody know what this place used to be? Appreciate any info

[ki0eh]

I know where you're talking about, I don't know about the building specifically but here is an explanation for the foundations and embankment: Pennsylvania Canal - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

[Gerania]

Are the bridge supports on Mahantango Creek? The building is next to a farm?

Check out these paragraphs: "In the year 1812...", "The mills in the township...".

Susquehanna Township, Juniata Co PA

St. Paul's church is only about a half mile north of that building.

Three stories, maybe this. "Across the creek on the right bank of the canal is a wharf in front of a unique three story brick building-store, post office and tavern known through the years as "Weiser's Folly" that stands today like a bare shell..." It's about 3/4 of the way down the page, the paragraph which starts with, "We are nearing our day's dreamboat ride"

Muncy Historical Society and Museum of History: Muncy Heritage Park and Nature Trail

It a long time to find that. I'll send a bill.

[ki0eh]

That is a find for sure - Google Archives even!

I had wondered about the lower course of Penns Creek and why Selinsgrove was placed as it was. I see in that narrative about how the former mouth was blocked off to save a bridge for the canal. Ah, the old days before environmental impact statements...

[Gerania]

I have to read through that properly. I scanned so many articles looking for that one bit of information that everything is just a jumble in my head.

I never gave any thought to the canal in that area. I grew up in eastern PA and know a bit about the system over there. By the way, good call on your part.

The toll road, alternate roads, mills, schools, land owners, threw themselves across my monitor before I concentrated on the canal. That store, post office, tavern most likely had rooms to let. Pretty decent call on judd's part too.

[judd2401]

Fascinating stuff, never dreamed a canal ran through there but you can see a raised bank that passes the hotel. Thanks for all the research, great stuff.

[susquehannock]

I'm familiar with the place. It's rumored to be haunted.