The mission of the Rock Ford Foundation is to provide opportunities to connect with and explore the life of Edward Hand, the diverse communities and material culture of early Lancaster County, and the complex issues that shaped our nation in its formative years by preserving and interpreting Historic Rock Ford and its collections.
Historic Rock Ford was the home of Edward Hand and his family as well as enslaved and free servants and laborers. During the American Revolution, Edward Hand was Adjutant General to George Washington. Today, Historic Rock Ford is comprised of 33 acres at the southeastern edge of Lancaster City surrounded by Lancaster County Central Park. It offers guided tours of the elegantly furnished rooms of the circa 1794 Hand Mansion as well as the opportunity to visit the John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery of Early Lancaster County Decorative Arts which is housed in a re-constructed 18th century bank barn. Historic Rock Ford offers visitors a peaceful enclave for lovers of history, art and nature just inside the boundaries of Lancaster City.

2022 Tour Season: April 1 - October 30

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SPECIAL LONG RIFLES EXHIBIT

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE THE LONG RIFLE EXHIBIT COMPANION BOOK

 

 

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A sampling of reviews shared on Google by visitors to Historic Rock Ford:  

"If you are a fan of history, or historic places, this is a must visit. Our tour group was small and felt very personal, led by a very knowledgeable guide."

"I can’t believe it took me 30 years to get here, but I am glad. This is an American treasure right in Lancaster’s backyard."

"What a beautiful setting. Saw The People's Shakespeare Project production of "Witch" at the barn. Fantastic place for any kind of gathering."

"Our tour guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the Hand family, the history of the house, the way of life of the inhabitants, and the furnishings and interior decoration."

"Very knowledgeable guide and a hidden gem in the heart of Lancaster. Highly recommended for anyone interested in early American history."

 

Long Rifles Special Exhibit until October 30

For details about this Special Exhibit in the Snyder Gallery, please click here.

For information about the Snyder Gallery, please click here.

“Sleepy Hollow” Returns!

A seasonal favorite returns to the Hand Mansion after a slumber of five years!

All performances are SOLD OUT!

Presented by Historic Rock Ford in collaboration with Theater of the Seventh Sister.

 

 

Special Event Rentals

Make your special event an historic occasion! Our 18th Century barn and grounds are available for rental. For more information, please click here.

We are grateful for the generous support of our 2022 Season Sponsors:

Lead Sponsors

Mr. Thomas G. Englert and The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission

Supporting Sponsor

Rhoads Energy

 

Historic Rock Ford, an Educational Improvement Organization, sincerely thanks Fulton Forward and UGI for their generous support of our school programming.

 

 

 

Click here to support the Rock Ford Foundation through AmazonSmile.