It would be a mistake to restrict the study of history to names and places and neglect to tell the stories of the diverse ethnic groups who brought their traditions with them when they chose to settle in the shadow of Iron Hill. Pencader Historic Area will eventually be composed of designated sites, visitors' centers, historic maps and markers and walking tours. But the history of Pencader is also the history of her people. The Dutch, Welsh, Swedes, English, French, Germans, Afro-Americans, Finns and Irish were among those who greatly influenced the growth of Delaware. Their names chiseled on the stones in the churchyards, Janvier, Cooch, Congo, Keeley, Wilson, Johnson, Evans, tell part of the story. The
numerous tiny markers on infants graves also testify to the hardships these people faced. Further research and writing focused on the Pencader area will reveal a chapter in Delaware history about to be forgotten. The new museum on Iron Hill will be a fitting place to honor their achievements and contributions.
In those small years, upon such fears
My fancy learned to thrill.
An elevation on me lay,-
The swell of Iron Hill
The misty moods of altitudes,
Romance's glow and chill; And not more high Mount Sinai
To me than Iron Hill.
G.A.Townsend
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