The Devil's Half-Acre, Pennsylvania facts for kids
The Devil's Half-Acre is a special piece of land in Solebury Township, located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. It sits right next to the Pennsylvania Canal and offers amazing views of the Delaware River. This area is very popular in the summer for water sports and community gatherings.
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Where is The Devil's Half-Acre?
If you travel north from New Hope and Lumberville on Route 32, which follows the Delaware River, you'll find The Devil's Half-Acre on your right. It's nestled between the river and the Pennsylvania Canal. This spot is just south of Dark Hollow Road and about a mile south of Old Ferry Road, coming from Point Pleasant, Pennsylvania.
The History of The Devil's Half-Acre
Early Days and the Canal
The only building on The Devil's Half-Acre is an old stone house. It was built around 1800, which was when the Pennsylvania Canal was being dug. This building is even mentioned in old records from the canal's leaders between 1828 and 1832.
Long ago, when the canal was being built, two families lived in this old stone house. It's said that the place became very lively and earned its unusual name because some people there weren't following all the rules.
A New Chapter with Stephen Durand
In 1845, a man named Stephen Durand took over the property. He was very different from the people who lived there before him. Stephen Durand was known for being a kind, hardworking, and honest person. He made many improvements to the buildings and even created a beautiful flower garden. He was always friendly to travelers passing by.
Once, after a difficult event for the Mormon community, two traveling preachers from that faith were very tired. Stephen Durand welcomed them into his home and let them rest for several days until they were ready to continue their journey.
Much later, after Stephen Durand had passed away, Mrs. Charles Earle made the home attractive again. At one point, a newspaper writer suggested calling the place "High Rock Villa," but the name never really caught on.
