Williams Grove, Pennsylvania facts for kids

Williams Grove is a small community in Pennsylvania, United States. It is located in Cumberland County, near U.S. Route 15. Williams Grove is famous for its exciting Williams Grove Speedway and was once home to a popular amusement park.

History of Williams Grove

Williams Grove has a long and interesting history, starting with the first families who settled there.

Early Beginnings

The Williams family were among the first people to settle in this area. They built a house called the John Williams House. This house is now a special historic place. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

In 1850, the Williams family started hosting picnics on their land. These picnics took place in a lovely grove next to the Yellow Breeches Creek. This grove later became the well-known Williams Grove Amusement Park.

From Grove to Amusement Park

The grove was sold in 1928 to a person named Roy Richwine. He worked to turn it into a full amusement park. Then, in 1939, he opened the Williams Grove Speedway. This speedway became a very popular place for racing fans.

Local Businesses and Events

In 1963, a business called Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses opened in the eastern part of the village. Sadly, in 1989, a large fire caused about $500,000 in damage to the complex. A temporary market was set up while a new building was constructed. The new Ashcombe Farm & Greenhouses opened its doors in 1990.

The Williams Grove Amusement Park closed after the 2005 season.

In 2007, the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association bought 90 acres of land. They had been using this land for their festivals for some time.

A restaurant called T.J. Rockwell's opened in 2008. It took the place of an older restaurant known as the Countryside Inn.