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Of course, history of Pine Hill Arboretum didn’t start in 1903. In 1630, the Six Nations of the Iroquois conquered the Susquehannock tribes and controlled this area, however their interests weren’t in settling this area, it remained lightly populated. From 1689 to 1728, the Shawnees had villages near Pine Hill and as late as 1753 there were large number residents from multiple tribes (remanents of the Delaware, Shawnees, Tuscaroras and Mingees). A great number of Indian relics were found at Pine Hill, not only those used in hunting, but those for household use. This seems to indicate that a least a temporary camp was located near Pine Hill.
On October 11, 1736 all the land surrounding Pine Hill was deeded by the Irquois nation to William Penn and in turn by him to John Harris, in 1748. In 1760 this area was divided into farms and Pine Hill became a part of a farm owned by John Erford which eventually was deeded to the Fakes mentioned above.
As late as 1965, Pine Hill had a pavilion and cabin complete with pot belly stove. The cabin was at the top of the hill and it faced the Conodoguinet Creek. Pine Hill will always be special to the children that grew up in West Fairview, Possum Hollow and Enola. Perhaps it was the field trips with teachers pointing out the many flowers and trees. It definitely served as a place of peace and tranquility for many people.
On November 17, 2004 the Harrisburg Natural Historical Society deeded the property to East Pennsboro Township and it will serve as a nature preserve for many years to come.
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