The Historical Mystique of Radnor, Pennsylvania

In 1684 a group of Pennsylvania citizens approached William Penn about constituting a tract of land for themselves. The 40,000 acres they wished to have would be used for a separate county where only Welsh would be spoken. They received what they asked for, yet refused to set up any governing bodies. Their small Welsh community quickly and quietly faded away. The township of Radnor, located along the main line to Philadelphia, was once originally part of this Welsh tract. Today they still continue to honor their lost legacy through a few odd memorials.

When the I-476 turnpike decided to route through the suburban township of Radnor, the locals vowed to not let it destroy their hometown heritage and charm. They instead used the opportunity to beautify, as opposed to vilify. The township agreed that this was a perfect time to help exemplify the towns mysterious past.

The township had a massive 23 foot high cairn placed on top of a local hilltop, allowing passing vehicles to get a glimpse of a wondrous secret. Large cairns are located throughout most of Wales, many dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze ages. Nearby a extravagant dragon made of stone was constructed along the highway as well.

Though what the municipality decided to do at Unkefer park seems to be the most mystical. A circle of stone monoliths was constructed. These large boulders were unearthed while highway construction was being done. The township wanted to make use of the massive rocks instead of having them hauled away, which may have cost them more. As mystical as these attractions seem they are all part of this towns rich history.

Montgomery County, Pennsylvania

In the upcoming volume 21 zine, we'll be sharing our stories of whiskey, mystics, and men. "Da-da-da" Sorry couldn't help it! We're gonna take you to an old saloon that played a significant part in the revolutionary War. Many believe the General who used the tavern as his headquarters, may still be frequenting the pub.

After our fill of spirits we visited a few rather mystical places. A small town who still pays honor to their Welsh ancestors, with stone griffins, large cairns, and a circle of rocks, resembling a smaller Stonehenge. Then we were off to play the rocks, good thing we brought our hammers. At the park we visited, banging on the rocks with hammers is allowed, in fact encouraged. Each rock lets out it's own unique sound, some the normal thud you'd expect, others magically expel the sound of bells. Afterwords we got an inside and outside look at a Synagogue designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. This inspiring temple was meant to evoke the look of Mt. Sinai. It's a marvel to admire whether it's lit by the natural sun, or when it's illuminating like a candle in the evening.

Lastly we paid a visit to two lost palaces to see what was left of two men's dreams. Two multi-millionaires whose dream homes may have cost them everything. One of these mansions is now almost lost forever, only a few garden sculptures remain. The other nearby home lies as a former shell of itself. The "house that art built", lies in an abandoned shamble. It's quite a sight to see such articulate beauty, fall into such a desolate state.


For more information on the aforementioned places keep following our blog, and keep your eyes open for the upcoming zine.