Daniel was born on this site on November 2, 1734, the sixth of eleven children. Little is known of Daniel's PA years, but he undoubtedly helped his former father on the homestead and had the usual experience of a boy growing up in the back country. [His father was an English Quaker who married the daughter of Welsh Quakers.]
In 1750 the Boone family treked south to the Yadkin Valley in NC, principally for economical reasons but more likely because they had been "read out of meeeting" by the Exeter Friends for allowing another sone to marry a non-Quaker. Daniel was fifteen and one half years old at this time. In 1756 Daniel married Rebecca Bryan and they raised ten children. Most people know Daniel was an explorer, Indian fighter, and a leader among settlers in opening new parts of Kentucky. Although he lost two sons and a brother in Indian fighting, he was merciful and compassionate towards his native adversaries.
Twice Daniel returned to visit his boyhood home in - 1781 and in 1788 - a hero and legend in his day. Dispite his reputation, his finances languished and beset by creditors and personal disillusion, he finally left Kentucky in 1799 for Missouri. He died near St. Louis on September 26, 1820, nearly 86 years old.
After the Boones emigrated to North Carolina, the PA property was purchased and continued to prosper under its subsequent owners. Since 1938 the Daniel Boone Homestead has been a state owned historic site. It includes seven 18th century structures, a like and picnic areas. There are also trails to meander allowing you to observe the flora and fauna of this wildlife refuge.
The day Muffin and I were there it was like a early spring day - sunny, warm. None of the buildings were open, but I could walk around enjoying the peace and serenity of this oasis away from the noise and bustle of the highway. I took a trail by the lake which still had a skim of ice on it, disturbing a rabbit that was enjoying this beautiful day. I looked at a reconstructed log cabin on the property, reminding me of our family camp in Tioga County. The original homestead has now been replaced and expanded to a beautiful stone farmhouse. There were animals near the barn: two horses, sheep, geese. Crows were calling to each other and I stopped to listen to a sparrow joyfully singing from a wild rose bush. His aria rivaled any by Pavarotti! There are benches placed along the trails and I just sat for awhile soaking in the warmth of the sun and listening to the quieet. I could hear the soft gurgle of the water from the melting snow and frosted ground as it seeped into the ground. As I looked out over the fields and woods I couldn't help but think this is perhaps what Daniel heard and saw over 250 years ago.
I am anxious to return when the building are open - there's something about old buildings which I love. Until then, I have discovered a place of peace and sensual delight her in Berks County.
