More Than a Building

Be impressed by a site clustered in York County high hills, along very broad waters. From this point you can see the Lancaster County horizon one mile in the distance, all part of a long winding river traversing some of the most picturesque scenery in the world.  Here the river forms a lake now stretching 8 miles and covering approximately 24,000 acres.

See eagles and other birds of prey diving for food to feed their young.  Songbirds telling a story of happy times. Game birds strutting their stuff for all to see.

Look carefully at Mother Nature’s trillium, Dutchman’s breeches, Jack-in-the-Pulpits, poke weed, skunk cabbages, wintergreens, honeysuckle, tiger lilies, ladies slippers among the canopies provided by an abundant variety of trees.

The Susquehanna River

Stand close to a spot where shad fish once were freely able to migrate from the Atlantic Ocean to spawning grounds in central Pennsylvania. According to folklore, the Susquehannock Indians had a favorite fishing spot 1/3 of a mile downstream from here.  Indians carved steps to the river to make seining for shad and other forms of fish life much easier.
Etched Window Panels

Within the southern annex of the museum, you'll discover various window etchings documenting aspects of Native American life. One, shown here, is attributed to the reknowned Native American artist, Jesse J. Cornplanter—created in the early 1900s—representing an example of Senaca village life.
Historical Nature Trail

There is a self-guided historical nature trail on the ground immediately surrounding the museum. In addition, the area offers hiking trails in the adjacent Ulmer-Root-Haines Memorial Park.
American Holly Tree

In addition to abundant bird and animal life, the site contains some 60 labeled species of trees. Among them is a gigantic holly that was here when the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock more than 350 years ago. It is believed to be the largest American holly tree in the world at this latitude. This tree stands 65 feet high! The spread of its branches is also 65 feet.

This tree was just a sprig when the Susquehannock Indians dominated this area in the 1630’s.  As a young holly, this tree witnessed the Shawnees, the last Indians to inhabit this area, moving westward in 1765.

From this symbol of life and beauty, a small branch is taken each year in token payment for the lease of the site.
Totem Pole

Here you can admire a third generation 36 ft. high totem pole, carved with symbols of mythical Native American belief. 

On this pole can be found a buck-toothed beaver, a fish, a turtle, a raven, a thunderbird and an Indian figurehead. 

In accordance with early custom, this pole faces the North Star. 

Look beyond the totem pole to find a stone structure once used for inside cooking, Indian style, without the use of a chimney.
Picnic Pavillions

Indian Steps is a place where the entire family can relax and have fun. It is not only educational, but the grounds surrounding the museum offer recreational opportunities to delight any age group. There is an ample supply of picnic tables, and toilet facilities are available.

This beautiful setting is available for group rental. Please call us for reservations. Requested donation for the use of this building is $2 per person up to 24 people. For groups of 25 or more, the charge is $150 for the entire group.

The use of the pavilion is limited to the hours and days that the Museum is open.

Group reservations should be made in advance by calling the Museum. Donations can be placed in boxes located conveniently at the pavilion.